The data collection phase of the new Census of Agriculture is about to begin. (Gary Crawford and Hubert Hamer, Administrator of USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service)

USDA is gearing up for the the huge data collection phase of the Census of Agriculture. (Gary Crawford and Barbara Rater, with USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service)

Barbara Rater, Director of the Census and Survey Division of USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service, saying the Census of Agriculturre is not only about gathering numbers on crop and livestock production. It's also about the people who raise the crops and livestock.

Barbara Rater, Director of the Census and Survey Division of USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service, talking about the massive nature of the Census of Agriculture project.

Hubert Hamer, Administrator of USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service, saying that the Census of Agriculture provides a comprehensive and multi-level look at U.S. Agriculture.

The condition of the nation's corn crop is down from a week ago, but soybean ratings are holding steady. (Gary Crawford and USDA meteorologist, Brad Rippey)

USDA meteorologist, Brad Rippey, with the latest on corn crop development.

USDA meteorologist, Brad Rippey, talking about some states where the corn crop is having major problems.

USDA meteorologist, Brad Rippey, with the latest on soybean crop progress.

USDA meteorologist, Brad Rippey, looking at states with soybean crop condition woes.