Using Surveys and Program Evaluations to Assist Communities

The WRHSRC TOSC and TAB programs recently began using two tools that are not typically associated with traditional technical assistance programs -- surveys and program evaluations. Surveys gather information about a wide range of topics while program evaluations rate performance or achievement of program objectives. We have used questionnaires as a fundamental component of both these tools. Questionnaire responses provide community groups or agencies with perspectives that help them make informed decisions.

In Oregon, the TAB program is carrying out a survey at the request of the state Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ). They asked us to survey local governments to determine what services or information about brownfields would be of greatest use to them. DEQ will use the responses to help guide their planning for the new fiscal year. The survey is electronic and was sent by e-mail. It uses software that automatically compiles and analyzes responses. The electronic format will help TAB quickly assess the results and present them to DEQ.

In California, the TOSC program is assisting residents of Santa Rosa and the Sonoma County Health Department to evaluate the effectiveness of a process for developing a groundwater response plan. The plan became necessary when residents and county staff realized that groundwater contamination would likely be an ongoing issue and that the county needed a formal process to assure protection of human health. TOSC created an evaluation form with questions about the groundwater response plan’s quality and the participants’ satisfaction with their ability to influence the plan development process. The form was distributed to residents and government agency staff who helped develop the response plan. The evaluation form also gives participants the opportunity to provide additional comments about anything related to the plan development process. The results of the survey will be used to help the county improve both the plan and its community outreach efforts.

One of the key elements of effective technical assistance is the ability to tailor assistance to particular community needs. Tools such as surveys and process evaluations complement the more traditional technical assistance skills and improve our ability to meet community needs.

If you would like additional information about TOSC's work with surveys and evaluation please contact Denise Lach at denise.lach@orst.edu or 541-737-5471 or
Michael Fernandez at michael.fernandez@ orst.edu or 541-737-4023.