Radio Features Archive

The future of agriculture, no matter the period in time, involves innovations that make production more efficient, bountiful and sustainable. That is the case even today as advances in technologies, practices and strategies are positively impacting ag now and into the future. Rod Bain looks at some examples of innovation in agriculture as part of an ongoing series in “Agriculture USA”.

PARTICIPANTS: Rod Bain. Joe Steinkamp of the American Soybean Association. Tim Trotter of EDGE Dairy Cooperative. John Fode of the Corn Refiners Association. Ag tech consultant Chad Colby. Dave Mulligan of the National Wheat Growers Association. Mike Newland of the Propane Education and Research Council. Jim Bair of the U.S. Apple Association.

Why not try some veggies on the outdoor grill along with the hot dogs and hamburgers? Gary Crawford has an expert to tell us how to do it.


PARTICIPANTS: Gary Crawford and Sandy Proctor, Kansas State University extension food specialist.
***Broadcasters--Use this story before July 4th.***

Drought in the western part of the country is not a new story, but the area is sliding into what meteorologists call "mega drought." Stephanie Ho has the story.

PARTICIPANTS: Stephanie Ho and USDA meteorologist, Brad Rippey

Consumers will find more sweet cherries in stores this summer, but how many tart cherries for pies and canned goods? Rod Bain reports.


PARTICIPANTS: Rod Bain and Lance Honig of the National Agricultural Statistics Service

Shoppers are finding more plant-based meat alternatives in supermarkets, but are those products causing us to eat less beef? Gary Crawford reports.


PARTICIPANTS: Gary Crawford. Kansas State University economist, Glynn Tonsor. Classic comedian, W.C. Fields.

USDA's symbol for nutrition guidance is celebrating its tenth anniversary and its message will continues to expand into its next decade. Rod Bain reports.


PARTICIPANTS: Rod Bain. Secretary Tom Vilsack. Deputy Under Secretary for Food, Nutrition, and Consumer Services Stacy Dean.

Drought is an issue on both sides of the continent. Stephanie Ho has the story.

PARTICIPANTS: Stephanie Ho and USDA meteorologist, Brad Rippey

Pork demand and hog prices are both strong. Why, then, are producers indicating a throttling back on production? Gary Crawford has more.


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

USDA's Foreign Agricultural Service and the bison industry are working together to address challenges to exporting bison meat. Rod Bain reports.

PARTICIPANTS: Rod Bain and Dave Carter of the National Bison Association.

Is the U.S. beef cattle herd headed for a contraction, or is expansion the likely scenario? Gary Crawford has this report.


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

The Agriculture Secretary explains the need to streamline our nation's regulatory process regarding ag biotechnology approvals. Rod Bain reports.


PARTICIPANTS: Rod Bain and Secretary Tom Vilsack