The Appalachian Experiment, 1965-1970.

Assessing the progress of the Appalachian Regional Commission, this report dealt with policy decisions and programs implemented by the Commission from its inception in the mid-1960's through fiscal year 1970. Low income, high unemployment, retarded urbanization, education deficits, inadequacies in standards of living, and a changing population were identified as the major problems of the region. The program strategy was to improve employment opportunities which would lead to economic growth and general development. It was further decided that Appalachia would have to adjust to the evolving national society if a greater share of national output was to be attained. Since its inception, the program has broadened the definition of its daily operating development, changed the relative emphasis among programs, and changed the range of its administrative and program activities. Some functional programs discussed were Appalachian housing, natural resources and environment, education, health, and highways. Additional chapters contained the planning and development strategy and the commission as a government institution, which included federal, state, and the local development districts. (HBC)