Agricultural Communications Documentation Center, Funk Library, University of Illinois Box: 136 Document Number: C20801
Notes:
Burton Swanson Collection, 15th European Seminar on Extension and Education, Wageningen International Conference Centre, The Netherlands, August 27-31, 2001
6 pages, Understanding relationships between demographic and economic factors and equestrian participation could improve horse program design. We implemented an online survey that characterized associations of participation in equine activities, socioeconomic factors, and economic factors with age. Seventy-five percent of respondents ride, and 34% are recreational, non-competitive participants. Respondents were mostly female, and many participate in the sport throughout life. Many respondents indicated they overspent on equestrian activities. Horse programs should incorporate information and activities that address issues unique to females, should develop skills required by amateur or recreational riders, and should incorporate information on financial wellness.
Suggests that market oriented arrangements (i.e., privatized extension and research, output-financing) are probably less suitable than other institutional arrangements when the aim is to support experiential learning and interactive design towards sustainable agriculture.
5 pages, Despite the increase in energy consumption, rising energy costs, and the overall financial strain in the agriculture sector, the Extension system has allocated limited resources to energy education in agriculture. Many energy programs focus on renewable energy and energy efficiency technologies whereas little attention is paid to developing an understanding of how farmers are billed for electricity, when electricity is used, and why. The first step in developing evidence-based solutions to improve farm profitability is clearly defining the problems that need to be solved. If not Extension, who will take on the responsibility of providing this critical education?
Agricultural Communications Documentation Center, Funk Library, University of Illinois Box: 143 Document Number: C22038
Notes:
Public Opinion Online. 1 page., Responses in a national adult Harris Poll about the prices of packaged foods. "Fair and reasonable" - 52%; "Somewhat high" - 32%; "Unreasonably high" - 12%; "Not sure" - 3%.
