The latest USDA report shows the nation's topsoils are drying out at what one expert calls an "incredible" rate. (Gary Crawford and USDA meteorologist, Brad Rippey)

USDA meteorologist, Brad Rippey, with the latest look at the condition of the nation's pastures and rangelands.

This year's U.S. sweet cherry crop is projected smaller than last year. (Rod Bain and Lance Honig of the National Agricultural Statistics Service)

A year-over-year increase in tart cherry production will assure plenty of this cherry variety is available for cherry pie and other treats. (Rod Bain and USDA meteorologist Brad Rippey)

A new report says the U.S. is losing huge amounts of its good, productive farmland. (Gary Crawford. John Piotti, President of the American Farmland Trust. Terry Cosby, Chief of the USDA's Natural Resources Conservation Service)

A new USDA report shows a pork industry that's being very cautious and somewhat uncertain about the future. (Gary Crawford and USDA livestock analyst, Shayle Shagam)

USDA livestock analyst, Shayle Shagam, with some of the key numbers from Wednesday's USDA Hogs and Pigs report.

The pre-Fourth of July prices for beef and pork being offered by some grocery stores may surprise many shoppers, in a good way. (Gary Crawford and USDA livestock analyst, Shayle Shagam)

Fourth of July grillers will be paying more for chicken than last year, even chicken that's on sale. (Gary Crawford and USDA livestock analyst, Shayle Shagam)