Radio Features

Issues with port congestion and few filled ocean containers threaten record setting ag exports for our county and has led to efforts to mitigate such issues. One such idea is a “pop-up” site at port facilities, such as one to begin operations this Spring at the Port of Oakland California. Rod Bain looks at developing facilities, and how it could help ag interests get their goods overseas in this edition of “Agriculture USA”.

PARTICIPANTS: Rod Bain. Secretary Tom Vilsack. White House Supply Chain Disruptions Task Force John Pocari. Port of Oakland California Business Development and International Marketing Manager Andrew Hwang.

The U.S. economy is growing at a rapid rate, but some economists say rural economies need help to spur growth. Gary Crawford has more.


PARTICIPANTS: Gary Crawford. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack.

Not much is known about agroforestry, yet resources such as the National Agroforestry Center, and upcoming National Agroforestry Survey, will aid in learning more about these practices. Rod Bain reports.

PARTICIPANTS: Rod Bain and Matt Smith of the National Agroforestry Center

One food safety expert says the food safety practices of many of us on Super Bowl Sunday might need further review. Gary Crawford has more.

PARTICIPANTS: Gary Crawford and Meredith Carothers 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

It's a pairing in the tradition of Valentine's Day - one that one day could make those milk chocolate candies and treats more healthy. Rod Bain reports.


PARTICIPANTS: Rod Bain and USDA researcher Lisa Dean

In lieu of chocolates and sweets for Valentine's Day, an extension expert offers advice on more healthy alternatives to celebrate. Rod Bain reports.


PARTICIPANTS: Rod Bain and Lynnette Allen of University of Kentucky Extension

USDA and partners recently announced what is being called a pop-up site at a West Coast port terminal to help alleviate shipping and supply chain concerns. Rod Bain reports.

PARTICIPANTS: Rod Bain. Secretary Tom Vilsack. White House Supply Chain Disruptions Task Force Port Envoy John Pocari.

Disaster assistance funding will soon be available for livestock and crop producers impacted by weather related disasters over the last two years. Rod Bain reports.


PARTICIPANTS: Rod Bain and Secretary Tom Vilsack

Most farmers will see an increase in cash receipts this year, but a drop in profits. Gary Crawford has more.


PARTICIPANTS: Gary Crawford. Spiro Stefanou, Administrator of USDA's Economic Research Service. Seth Meyer, USDA Chief Economist.

The USDA's top economist says the financial health of the farm sector is good, but the direction it's going is a bit worrisome. Gary Crawford reports.


PARTICIPANTS: Gary Crawford and USDA Chief Economist Seth Meyer

Will the nation's beef cattle herd shrink further this year, taking beef production down and cattle prices up? Gary Crawford has this report.


PARTICIPANTS: Gary Crawford and USDA livestock analyst, Shayle Shagam.