American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) Practice Exam

Which program was part of FDR's New Deal aimed at rural recovery and resource conservation?

1. Federal Emergency Relief Administration

2. WPA (Works Progress Administration)

3. Rural Electrification Administration

4. Soil Conservation Service

The correct answer is: Federal Emergency Relief Administration

The program that was part of FDR's New Deal aimed specifically at rural recovery and resource conservation is the Rural Electrification Administration. This program was established in 1935 to bring electricity to rural areas that were underserved and to improve the quality of life and economic opportunities for rural residents. By providing loans and support for the installation of electrical infrastructure, the Rural Electrification Administration played a crucial role in enhancing rural communities, which aligns with the goals of resource conservation and rural recovery during the New Deal era. In contrast, the Federal Emergency Relief Administration primarily focused on providing direct relief and employment to the unemployed rather than specific rural recovery efforts. The Works Progress Administration was more broadly focused on large-scale public works projects to create jobs through infrastructure improvements across various settings, including urban areas. The Soil Conservation Service, while it did address resource conservation, was more focused on agricultural practices and soil preservation rather than broad rural electrification or recovery efforts. Each of these programs served vital purposes during the New Deal, but the Rural Electrification Administration specifically targeted the dual objectives of rural recovery and resource conservation.