*The nation’s cattle herd continues to shrink due to the prolonged drought.  *Veterans interested in learning more about agriculture can now apply for the “Battleground to Breaking Ground” program.   *It has been a very hot and dry fall so far this year in Texas.  *A program offered by the Texas Cattle Feeders Association teaches feedyard skills to high school students.  *USDA is highlighting its food system transformation efforts.  *Hunting season is on farmers and ranchers minds in the pineywoods of East Texas.  *The fall is typically cattle working time here in Texas.  *The National Park Service and Texas Parks and Wildlife Service will spend the next two weeks controlling audad or barbary sheep in Big Bend National Park.