Alaska's population growth between fiscal years 1978 and 1986 has been far surpassed by increases in the demand for protective services. The public recognizes the need for protective services and earlier intervention, but the growth in the complexity and size of demands has not been matched by growth in the resources of the Division of Family and Youth Services. Nevertheless, increases in the level and quality of services to delinquent youth have reduced juvenile crime. However, resource limitations will hinder continued progress in reducing juvenile crime. Under current circumstances neither policy changes nor the reallocation of resources possible within existing management constraints can prevent a decline in services. What has been viewed as a management problem in the past is now clearly recognized as a fundamental resource deficit. Seven recommended measures would help achieve an effective system of serving abused children and delinquent youth. Figures.