Agricultural regulations, while necessary and sometimes beneficial, can be time-consuming, unreasonable and difficult to understand, according to California farmers surveyed by the UC Davis-based UC Agricultural Issues Center. The farmers' views are recorded in a new 150-page publication, "Voices of California Farmers: Effects of Regulations." In telephone interviews conducted during the summer of 1995, 263 farmers shared their opinions and perceptions about regulations in general, as well as how specific regulatory requirements have affected them and how they have adapted to the various requirements. The last of the survey's 83 questions gave farmers the opportunity to suggest ways to improve agricultural regulations. "Go to the farm and see what's practical," suggested one farmer. Said another, "Put everything in a booklet that is no longer than five pages." Generally, the growers surveyed asked to be regulated by a system that is less complex, more goal-oriented and incentive- rather than threat-based. They wanted regulators to take a "common sense" approach to enforcement. Journalists may request a complimentary copy of the report by calling the Ag Issues Center at (916) 752-2320. Tip by Jeannette Warnert, Division of Agriculture and Natural Resources, (209) 225-5611, jwarnert@uckac.edu.