Evaluating interdisciplinary extension CRD programming: a case study of commercial vegetable cooperatives

Abstract

Extension programming for commercial vegetable cooperatives should be designed to utilize community resource development (CRD) group problem-solving, interdisciplinary educational programming, and an Agricultural Cooperative Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture model for establishing a cooperative. Case study data from three commercial vegetable cooperatives suggest that such programming will increase a cooperative's ability to maximize driving forces and to minimize restraining forces associated with personality and environmental factors operating within the organizational outcome categories of membership commitment, production, administration, management, marketing, and net worth. Both qualitative and quantitative data are used to support the results of the study.