Science-based. Policy-ready.
CAST convenes expert networks, produces peer-reviewed publications, and runs programs that translate agricultural science into formats policymakers, educators, and the public can use.
Supporting science since 1972.
CAST is an independent nonprofit, founded in 1972, that convenes expert networks to produce peer-reviewed publications and run science communication programs connecting agricultural research to policy and practice. Our members include scientists, students, academic institutions, and organizations across sectors.
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CAST Membership Resources
Whether you’re a researcher, student, organization, or communicator, CAST membership gives you access to programs, publications, and a network working at the intersection of agricultural science and public life.
CAST convenes expert networks to produce peer-reviewed publications on agricultural science, then translates that research into formats policymakers, educators, journalists, and the public can use. The work is carried out by volunteer scientists, economists, legal experts, and communicators from across disciplines.
Session 3 recording is now available — Resilience and Security, with Duane Simpson, Jeremy Jack and Michaela McGinn. Next up: Session 4, Trust and Leadership, Oct. 21, Noon CT. Free and open to all.
Watch Session 3 → View All Sessions →IFPRI research fellow emeritus and former USDA chief economist honored for more than four decades of analysis and communication on agricultural markets, trade, and food security. Award presented Dec. 10 at the Library of Congress.
Read the Announcement →CAST’s new issue paper is now available. Authors Jon Entine, Mark McDaniel and Thomas Redick explain why detecting PFAS is not the same as finding a risk — and what farmers and communicators can do. Recording of the Oct. 16 release webinar also available.
Read the Paper & Watch Recording → 
PFAS, often called “forever chemicals,” are a growing regulatory and economic challenge for agriculture, even though farms usually sit downstream from contamination sources such as biosolids, compost, irrigation water and industrial sites. This paper argues that treating thousands of chemically diverse compounds as one uniform hazard distorts policy and penalizes farmers. Detection is not the same as risk: the strongest health evidence centers on a few compounds, mainly PFOA and PFOS. The authors review federal and state regulation, litigation and EPA’s 2026 draft biosolids guidance, and recommend source control, strategic testing, compound-by-compound interpretation, documentation and early, credible risk communication.
It’s easy to become a member today. Please contact us if you have any questions or use the link below to sign up!
With over 1,000 active members, including students, academics, professionals, and organizations from around the globe, CAST is a vibrant and diverse community dedicated to advancing science in agriculture, food, and natural resources.
Over the years, CAST has engaged thousands of dedicated volunteers in producing more than 500 publications. Their expertise and commitment have been instrumental in delivering trusted, science-based information to inform and impact the world of agriculture and beyond.
We deeply value our volunteers, whose dedication and hard work are crucial to advancing agricultural research. Their enthusiasm and commitment drive innovation and make a real difference towards our mission.
