Agricultural Energy Information Needs of Cooperative Extension Agents and Their Clientele.

A nationwide survey of Cooperative Extension personnel was conducted in August-September 2008 to determine their interests and educational needs related to energy and agriculture.  The data were sought by an eXtension.org Community of Practice on Farm Energy. Questions included: respondent’s ranking of subject matter and informational topics that are of most interest to them and their clientele; Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) they receive and are seeking content on; preferred mechanisms for providing them information; and training materials. The electronic survey was conducted in cooperation with the National Association of County Agricultural Agents. There were 1355 respondents from 47 states, a 42% response rate. Their highest ranked interests were renewable (wind, solar) energy, and farm system conservation and efficiency.  They perceived their clientele’s greatest interests in the topics of biodiesel, wind energy, and farm system conservation and efficiency. Preferred informational resources and mechanisms for information presentation are FAQs; worksheets, workbooks and decision-making tools; and research study summaries.  Regional differences were found.  The results identify and prioritize informational topics of most interest and use, educational material needs, and preferred methodologies for information sharing, and may be usefulness to Cooperative Extension professionals, educators and industry.