Two articles describe extension services provided to the Oregon Commercial fishery for albacore tuna, with the assistance of the Oregon State University sea grant center. (MF)

McIntryre explores the questions of county-based extention and increased specialization in Indiana. He compares the multi-county with individual county systems using variables including clientele's reactions to the two systems. (NL)

Examines the aspects of accountability for professional extension workers, focusing on six qualities requiring continual cultivation: Art, clarity, depth, breadth, goal-orientation, and rapport. (WL)

Responses from 634 of 964 Utah farmers and ranchers showed that economic factors, availability of information, and federal farm programs were primary constraints on the adoption of sustainable agricultural practices. Cooperative extension should focus on specific groups of farmers to provide information about such practices. (SK)

A study of 23 Ohio Extension agents who had multicounty responsibilities was conducted to determine how they were adjusting to their new positions. Responses from 21 agents showed that they thought the experience stimulating, frustrating, and exhausting. Indicated that they need adequate support staff and time-saving equipment. (JOW)

A survey of 125 Virginia extension agents received 90 responses demonstrating their knowledge of yard waste management and composting. Results were used to develop public education programs and pilot projects about composting. (SK)

Advice for extension agents in fund raising includes (1) get permission; (2) take responsibility; (3) establish support groups; (4) gather smaller grants first; (5) fit programs to political priorities of funders; (6) have a sample product; (7) look in many places; and (8) be patient. (SK)

Most of the 285 Ohio extension agents (94% response) participating in agent specialization were moderately satisfied; they preferred to receive training through state/district conferences and formal classes. Greatest educational needs were balancing specialization with other program responsibilities and ensuring meaningful content. (SK)

Louisiana 4-H agents (n=91) rated camps as having the highest educational value of 4-H activities. They recommended some activities be eliminated and tended to invest more time in activities that have higher educational value. (SK)

Responses from 369 of 500 extension professionals reflected a shared vision for sustainable agriculture and recognition of a need for environmentally sound farming practices. There was less unanimity about endorsing the social aspects of sustainable agriculture, though they agreed on the need for more systems research. (SK)

Three areas in which extension specialists can assist food industry entrepreneurs include (1) awareness of the components of a business plan, (2) pro forma financial analysis, and (3) legal issues affecting the food industry. In addition to specialized expertise, extension professionals can help with making contacts, objectively review business…

Extension agents and 4-H Club leaders (n=115) rated the following as effective recruitment techniques: an active club, word of mouth, interesting programs, and members' active role. Successful retention techniques included effective leaders; praise, motivation, and encouragement; and fun meetings, programs, and activities. (SK)

4-H youth development agents (n=81) identified the importance and frequency of use of the phases in the GEMS (Generate, Educate, Motivate, Sustain) model of volunteer administration. The greatest discrepancy between importance and frequency was in sustaining volunteer involvement. Areas for agents' professional development were identified.…

The field level extension agents (FLEAs) are the lifeline of the agricultural extension system in Nigeria. Their motivation and job performance are therefore important to achieving faster agricultural development in Nigeria. The study identified the factors motivating the FLEAs working with Ogun State Agricultural development programme (OGADEP)…

This article discusses the 4-H Gateway Academies specifically designed to enhance science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) skills and knowledge in middle school youth. The innovative summer day camps partnered Project Lead the Way--trained teachers with county 4-H staff from University of Wisconsin-Extension (UW-Extension) Cooperative…