the most costly ^actors in agricultural production. 

 Biological control is an acceptable way to deal with 

 those problems. 



6. North Carolina's comparative advantage in 

 agricultural production and marketing vis-a-vis other 

 regions and countries is highly dependent upon a 

 strong research base and the timely delivery of 

 research based technology to the producer and 

 marketing firm. Also volatile economic conditions in 

 recent years have placed serious financial strain on 

 many farm families, businesses and rural communities. 

 North Carolina's farmers, commodity organizations, 

 farm organizations and the agribusiness community 

 have identified improved business management, 

 financial management and marketing skills as the 

 producers most critical need in the years ahead. 

 Improved economic decision-making is essential to the 

 future financial stability of these groups, 



7. The release of pesticides into soil, air and v/ater 

 creates potential health and environmental problems 

 that subsequently demand increased attention and 

 resources . 



8. Greater awareness and knowledge of agriculture and 

 the agribusiness industry by the citizens of North 

 Carolina is needed if agriculture is to be 

 appreciated for the significant contributions to our 

 health and State economy. 



10 



