A series of programs, led primarily by USDA’s Organic Transition Initiative, are designed to assist farmers switching from conventional to organic agriculture, and develop markets for organically grown commodities and products. Rod Bain looks at some of these efforts in this edition of “Agriculture...

*- STATIONS: The virtual listening session mentioned in this story occurs this Thursday (June 8) at 2 PM Eastern - 1 PM Central -* A series of listening sessions occur this summer as the Risk Management Agency receives comment on possible changes to prevented planting crop insurance. (Rod Bain and...

Food production by farmers and civilians was a key factor in the success of the D-Day invasion 79 years ago this week. Gary Crawford has this report. PARTICIPANTS: Gary Crawford. USDA historical expert , Anne Effland. ABC reporter George Hicks. President Franklin Roosevelt.

Risk Management Agency Administrator Marcia Bunger explains some of the proposed changes in prevented planting crop insurance coverage now being discussed through listening sessions between now and September First.

We are still seeing prices for most foods going up, but they are rising at a slower rate than expected. Gary Crawford has the good news. PARTICIPANTS: Gary Crawford. USDA economist, Matt MacLachlan. Classic radio comedian, Stan Freberg.

The torrid pace of planting is being replaced by the quiet wait for rain. (Gary Crawford and USDA meteorologist, Brad Rippey)

The annual Atlantic hurricane season is underway, so what are some ways citizens in areas prone to such events can prepare for a potential emergency? Rod Bain reports. PARTICIPANTS: Rod Bain. USDA meteorologist Brad Rippey. Federal Emergency Management Agency Administrator Deanne Criswell.

Don't blame El Nino for this current long-lasting period of dryness. (Gary Crawford and USDA meteorologist, Brad Rippey)

It might be a surprise to some that a division of USDA’s Rural Development mission area offers housing programs in many realms of the housing process. Rod Bain reports. PARTICIPANTS: Rod Bain and Rural Housing Service Administrator Joaquin Altoro

Topsoiil moisture shortages are expanding in area and severity. (Gary Crawford and USDA meteorologist, Brad Rippey)