Radio Features Archive

What does it take for USDA statisticians and enumerators to put together, send out, and collect data from the Census of Agriculture? And just how are the various pieces of information used from each Census? Rod Bain looks at both the timeline to develop and put together the Census of Agriculture, and its usage, in this edition of “Agriculture USA”.

PARTICIPANTS: Rod Bain. Jody McDaniel and Hubert Hamer of the National Agricultural Statistics Service. National Association of Farm Broadcasting President Joe Gill.

This year's recipient of the World Food Prize is recognized for her efforts to transform war ravaged landscapes into production farmland in several countries. Rod Bain reports.


PARTICIPANTS: Rod Bain. World Food Prize Foundation President Terry Branstad. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack.

A former Vice-President recently offered a first-hand view of his family farm and its transition into regenerative agricultural practices, opportunities, and innovations. Rod Bain reports.

PARTICIPANTS: Rod Bain. Secretary Tom Vilsack. Former Vice-President Al Gore.

Food price inflation seems to be cooling down a bit, according to a new price report. Gary Crawford has more.



PARTICIPANTS: Gary Crawford and USDA economist, Matt MacLachlan

Controlling ants around the home can be tricky business. Gary Crawford has more---not more ants, just more information.


PARTICIPANTS: Gary Crawford and Kait Chapman, University of Nebraska extension insect expert.

Outdoor grillers follow most of the recommended food safety rules, but often ignore one crucial rule. Gary Crawford has more.


PARTICIPANTS: Gary Crawford. Meredith Carothers, food safety expert with USDA's Meat and Poultry Hotline.

****Broadcasters: The USDA's Meat and Poultry Hotline number is 888-MPHOTLINE(888-674-6854)Listeners can also go online to Ask.usda.gov***

USDA is creating 12 food business centers to help boost local and regional food systems. Gary Crawford has more.


PARTICIPANTS" Gary Crawford. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. Ohio Senator Sherrod Brown. Debbie Phillips, CEO of Rural Action in Southwest Ohio.

The nominee for the Agriculture Department's Deputy Secretary position offered her vision of the position during her recent Senate Ag Committee confirmation hearing. Rod Bain reports.

PARTICIPANTS: Rod Bain and Under Secretary for Rural Development Xochitl Torres Small

U.S. wheat continues to battle drought. Experts say the crop will battle a tough export market as well. Gary Crawford has more.


PARTICIPANTS: Gary Crawford. USDA Chief Economist Seth Meyer. USDA Outlook Board Chairman Mark Jekanowski.

How do Federal Milk Marketing Orders work, and how are changes allowed to these industry supported agreements? Rod Bain reports.


PARTICIPANTS: Rod Bain and Agricultural Marketing Service Associate Administrator Melissa Bailey

A recent USDA study looks at some of the trends regarding producers’ adaption of precision agricultural methods and use of digital tools. Rod Bain reports.

PARTICIPANTS: Rod Bain. USDA economic researcher Johnathan McFadden. Terry Griffin of Kansas State University