Supporting science since 1972.
CAST is a trusted nonprofit that brings together scientists, students, institutions, and communicators to translate complex agricultural science into accessible language and impactful publications.
We provide:
Authoritative publications on topics ranging from crop science to food systems
Science communication programs like Ask the Expert and The CAST Hour Podcast
Student engagement through conferences, scholarships, and mentorship
Policy-relevant insights that bridge science and decision-making
Founded in 1972, CAST was established by a coalition of scientific societies to be a voice for agricultural science. Today, CAST continues to serve as a neutral, nonprofit source of ag science communication with over 20,000 stakeholders across academia, government, and industry.
📍 Headquartered in Iowa, CAST operates across the United States and internationally, with a growing focus on student development and public engagement.
Three boards govern CAST: the Board of Directors, the Board of Trustees, and the Board of Representatives.
The Board of Representatives includes scientists and experts from member organizations and is divided into three Working Groups—Animal Agriculture and Environmental Issues; Food Science and Safety; and Plant Agriculture and Environmental Issues.
These groups are responsible for reviewing, developing, and approving CAST publications. Our dedicated staff and interns support the entire process to ensure scientific quality, clarity, and impact in everything we do.
CAST’s strength lies in its diverse and committed member organizations. These include:
Leading universities and land-grant institutions that contribute scientific leadership and faculty experts
Agricultural companies and industry associations that support innovation and applied research
Scientific societies and nonprofits that share CAST’s mission of communicating credible science
International partners engaged in global initiatives like the World Food Prize Foundation
Our members actively shape CAST’s direction—appointing representatives, participating in Working Groups, and contributing to publications, programs, and outreach.
In the last 5 years, CAST has:
Published 50+ science-based papers and briefs
Reached 1M+ people via social media and newsletters
Trained hundreds of students in science communication
Hosted 100+ webinars and podcast episodes
📊 View Our Annual Impact Report
CAST, through its network of experts, assembles, interprets, and communicates credible, balanced, science-based information to policymakers, the media, the private sector, and the public.
CAST, through its network of experts, assembles, interprets, and communicates credible, balanced, science-based information to policymakers, the media, the private sector, and the public.
© Copyright CAST Science 2024. All Rights Reserved.
Web Design and Development by Saltech Systems
