The National Regional Research Planning System: An Example from Rural Development

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Public decision makers generally and especially those in the executive branch of the Federal government are demanding increasing amounts of information on which to base research policy and budget decisions. Zero-based budgeting provides a mechanism for revealing the priorities of an organization in a very specific context. The Congress in more general terms is requesting advice on research priorities. Such developments as (1) the proposed cuts in formula grant funds (e.g., Hatch funds) and increases in competitive grant funds contained in FY 1979 executive budget for the USDA, (2) substantial critical testimony before Congressional committees by spokesmen for groups who believe they are underserved by the Land-Grant system (e.g., low income and minority groups), and (3) a possible tax revolt growing out of the recent California referendum, suggest that these demands for information are likely to increase rather than decrease.