One of the real strengths is the state and local decision components in the system. However, as mentioned above, there is a need to enhance the opportunities for input in priority setting and program development at the local and state level. At the same time, improvements at this level must be effectively aggregated to the national level so that coordination can take place. There is no better example of solving site-specific problems than the approach offered by the Cooperative Extension Service. With a federal presence at the county level, extension has a very unique mission which varies from state to state.
Extension works for farmers and ranchers in developing profitable and competitive farming systems.
Serving both rural and urban communities, the extension service assists in developing healthy, well nourished populations, promoting citizenship, and helping our youth become productive members of society. Additionally, local producers are recognizing the real need for extension to address social problems which distract from the rural communities' ability to support the agricultural sector. As we evolve into better input mechanisms and more accountability, it's important to make sure that the increased input is not just at the beginning or at the end of a process. Rather, our stakeholders must be able to follow a transparent process and recognize that they are a part of the system. There should be ways to measure and monitor the process throughout.