Crop producers can benefit from understanding how to manage nitrogen through better knowledge of the nitrogen cycle. (Rod Bain and University of Illinois plant pathologist Fred Below)

USDA teams work to maintain airport safety in Hawaii, without harming a rare and protected species of goose. (Stephanie Ho and Brian Washburn, USDA Wildlife Services research biologist)

Scientists hope this week's massive emergence of the 17 year cicadas from their underground homes will help them solve one of the mysteries surrounding these strange insects. (Gary Crawford and Michael Raupp, University of Maryland entomologist)

Corn production relies on appropriate nitrogen levels for growth and yield - not just during planting, but throughout the growing season. (Rod Bain and Fred Below of University of Illinois Extension)

Pasture conditions across the nation are at record low levels for the third week in a row. (Stephanie Ho and USDA meteorologist, Brad Rippey)

There are more pastures in the country rated in poor, rather than good, condition. (Stephanie Ho and USDA meteorologist, Brad Rippey)

USDA meteorologist, Brad Rippey, says the western half of the country tends to dominate in terms of poor pasture conditions.

USDA meteorologist, Brad Rippey, says the country's best pastures are in the eastern part of the country.

Notable topsoil moisture shortages remain in the western half of the country. (Stephanie Ho and USDA meteorologist, Brad Rippey)

USDA meteorologist, Brad Rippey, has a look at where the worst topsoil moisture shortages are in the nation this week.