Researched by the Office of Technology Assistance in response to a number of Congressional committees, this summary report addresses the long-term issues that technology and certain other factors will have on U.S. agriculture during the remainder of this century. It focuses on the relationship of technology to the following: (1) agricultural production; (2) structural change; (3) rural communities; (4) the environment and natural resource base; (5) finance and credit; (6) research and extension; and (7) public policy. The assessment identifies many benefits that new technologies will create, but also cautions that these benefits will exact substantial costs in potential adjustment problems without policy changes. It suggests that careful analysis, planning, and implementation of public policy is needed. (KC)