Radio Newsline

Efforts to increase drought resiliency and water use efficiency in the West are getting a boost from USDA. (Gary Crawford and Astor Boozer, Western regional conservationist with USDA's Natural Resources Conservation Service)

Astor Boozer, Western Regional Conservationist with USDA's Natural Resources Conservation Service, announcing USDA's investment in Western water conservation projects in collaboration with the Interior Department's WaterSMART program.

Mexico's planned ban on growing genetically modified corn for human food is getting some reaction from the scientific world. (Gary Crarwford. Dr. Fan-Li Chou with the American Seed Trade Association. Jack Bobo, CEO of Futurity)

A unique challenge regarding farm transitions is the emotional investment older producers have in their operation that perhaps prevents a timely succession with a younger farmer. (Rod Bain and Jim Salfer of University of Minnesota Extension)

* - ATTN: STATIONS: National Bat Week is October 24th - 31st - * Several studies underway are looking at threats to bat populations and habitats, and what can be done to mitigate those threats. (Rod Bain and Susan Loeb of the U.S. Forest Service)

U.S. Forest Service researcher, Susan Loeb, discusses current efforts in her agency to find solutions to a disease that threatens North American bat populations.

Some of our present-day Halloween observances may have their roots in the practices of ancient farmers. (Gary Crawford and USDA historical expert, Anne Effland)

Anne Effland, USDA historical expert, explaining where the word, "Halloween", originates.

Rainfall now is coming at a good time for many parts of the country because it will help replenish soil moisture. (Stephanie Ho and USDA meteorologist, Brad Rippey)

USDA's topsoil moisture numbers are expected to improve following recent stormy weather in many parts of the country. (Stephanie Ho and USDA meteorologist, Brad Rippey)