Plant Breeding and Genetics

CAST papers are the foundation of CAST’s science communication work. Developed by expert-led task forces, these peer-reviewed publications translate agricultural science into trusted insights that inform policy, guide public understanding, and fuel CAST programs, dialogues, and educational initiatives.

Search Publications

March 16, 2017
Issue Paper

DOI: https://doi.org/10.62300/rsyz8h33

Task Force Chairs

P. Stephen Baenziger

Department of Agronomy and Horticulture, University of Nebraska–Lincoln

Rita H. Mumm

Department of Crop Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana–Champaign

Authors

Rex Bernardo

Department of Agronomy and Plant Genetics, University of Minnesota, St. Paul

E. Charles Brummer

Department of Plant Sciences, University of California–Davis

Peter Langridge

School of Agriculture, Food and Wine, University of Adelaide, Glen Osmond SA, Australia

Philipp Simon

USDA–Agricultural Research Service, Department of Horticulture, University of Wisconsin, Madison

Stephen Smith

Seed Science Center, Iowa State University, Ames

Abstract

Humans depend on plants for food, feed, fiber, and fuel—as well as less tangible aspects of life such as aesthetics and environmental stability. This paper is the first in a series that connects science and technology to agriculture, and it focuses on the critical importance of innovation in plant breeding to meet the challenge of providing food and nutritional security to humankind. Key areas covered include (1) the science of plant breeding and genetics; (2) the need for encouraging the next generation of scientists; (3) the current role of government policy and regulations; and (4) the need for cooperation and collaboration at all levels, including the public-private nexus.

Downloads & Resources

Webinar

Help Support CAST!

Your donation to CAST helps support the CAST mission of communicating science to meet the challenge of producing enough food, fiber and fuel for a growing population. Every gift, no matter the size, is appreciated.

Donate Today