Expanding drought intensity in parts of the nation this fall and winter could mean a potential rise in wildfires in some locales. (Rod Bain and Brad Pugh of the Climate Prediction Center)

Beef cattle prices are running far above this time a year ago as cattle supplies tighten. (Gary Crawford and USDA livestock analyst, Shayle Shagam)

If you or your kids go trick or treating, you are participating in a tradition that has evolved over many centuries. (Gary Crawford and Anne Effland, USDA history expert)

For many cotton growers this growing season has been like a bad horror movie. (Gary Crawford and USDA meteorologist, Brad Rippey)

USDA meteorologist, Brad Rippey, with the latest on the cotton harvest.

This year's winter wheat season is starting on a troublesome note. (Gary Crawford and USDA meteorologist, Brad Rippey)

The soybean and corn harvest is off to a fast start. (Gary Crawford and USDA meteorologist, Brad Rippey)

USDA meteorologist, Brad Rippey, with the soybean harvest by state.

USDA meteorologist, Brad Rippey, with the latest on the pace of corn harvesting.

USDA meteorologist, Brad Rippey, saying weather has cooperated with the corn and soybean harvest.