Developing a Community Perspective on Rural Economic Development Policy

Abstract

There is a growing economic disparity between rural and urban areas. To be effective, policy aimed at improving rural employment and income must recognize the great variations that exist in local development opportunities. The objectives of a comprehensive rural economic development policy should include the concerns of both the farm and nonfarm rural economies and resource transitions–people and capital–from one economic use to another. Community development practitioners can play a critical role in helping rural volunteer leaders assess their conditions, acquire necessary knowledge from external sources, and act as catalysts and facilitators in the execution of economic development policy. This paper outlines the changing rural economic base, the factors affecting development prospects, general policy objectives, and the role of the community development practitioner.