households with one other person (59.73% and 66.42%). The median annual income in both 2016 and 2017 was between $50,000 and $74,999. These demographics are similar to the demographics of Extension Master Gardeners (EMGs) in Iowa, Missouri, and nationally
A survey was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of Iowa State University (ISU) extension programs and services to the turfgrass, nursery, and landscape plant installation and maintenance industries in Iowa. Completed questionnaires were received from 294 individuals (55% response rate). Respondents indicated they have a continuing need for pest identification and management information and that ISU extension is an important source for this information. In general, most respondents said quality of information provided by ISU extension was better than that offered by horticultural consultants or product suppliers; however, only 48% said extension was doing very well delivering programs and information in a timely manner. Demand for on-site visits with extension specialists was greater than that for distance learning opportunities, suggesting that extension must do a better job of marketing and making relatively new communication technologies palatable.
Abstract
In the article “Use of Farming Systems Research Extension (FSR/E) Methods to Identify Horticultural Research Priorities in The Gambia, West Africa”, by G.O. Gaye, Isatou Jack, and John S. Caldwell (HortScience 23(l):21–25, February 1988), the authors wish to make the following acknowledgment: “The work reported herein was done under the Gambia Agricultural Research and Development Project of the Ministry of Agriculture, Government of The Gambia; the United States Agency for International Development; and the Univ. of Wisconsin. We express our appreciation to these institutions for their support.”
Each US state was surveyed to obtain a list of teaching materials and methods used to extend information on comporting. Most states offer a bulletin on the subject and some have audo/visual materials. Methods of delivery include traditional lectures by staff and volunteers in most areas. Unique programs include the “Don't Bag It” program in Texas aimed at management of lawn clippings and the “Master Composers” in Washington State that develops volunteers trained specifically for comporting education. A reference list of materials and programs submitted for this project will be available.