The evolution of Cooperative Extension Service techniques used to teach decision making in a risk environment is examined. Interviews of selected Cooperative Extension economists indicate that research methods used to evaluate and describe risk are more complex than those used in extension programs. Research is an essential component of the development and implementation of extension programs. Because most producers have some understanding of risk, and many use financial strategies to manage risk, and important product of risk research has been educating extension economists and researchers. When developing risk management programs, it is stressed that "simplicity is powerful."