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.
CAST presents a new policy brief on AI across the agricultural value chain. Lead author Alex Thomasson — Founding Director of the Agricultural Autonomy Institute at Mississippi State University — walks through the findings and takes questions. Nonpartisan, peer-reviewed, free and open to all.
Learn More and Register →CAST co-hosts the NCFAR Lunch-N-Learn at 1300 Longworth, examining invasive plant management in fire-prone landscapes. Speakers from the Western IPM Center, UC Cooperative Extension, and the Western Society of Weed Science. Lunch provided. Pre-registration required.
Register Now →Most agricultural research isn’t structured for AI agents to use. CAST hosts a free webinar introducing FAIR4AG², a framework for making agricultural knowledge agent-ready. Luke Qian and Martin Wiedmann (Cornell University) explain structured formats, machine-readable metadata, and more. Free and open to all.
Register → 
This publication examines the two-way relationship between invasive plants and fire: species such as cheatgrass (Bromus tectorum), medusahead (Elymus caput-medusae), and cogongrass (Imperata cylindrica) increase fire frequency and intensity through positive feedback loops that favor the invader over native vegetation, while species such as Brazilian peppertree (Schinus terebinthifolia) suppress fire by reducing fine fuel loads and outcompeting native grasses and shrubs. Both dynamics degrade native ecosystems and require science-based management responses.
Seed oils — canola, corn, soybean, safflower, and others pressed from plant seeds — are among the most widely consumed edible oils in the United States and around the world....
1300 Longworth, Capitol Hill, Washington, D.C.
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.
