Agricultural research offers consistently high return on investment, boosting the nation's economy while addressing pressing challenges in health, energy, environment, rural development, trade, and food safety. This Commentary is directed to Congress, the Administration, and the public, presenting recognized scholars' assessment of the high rate of return agricultural research has delivered to the American and global public—and why continued funding is in the public interest. As the authors note, "Plans for a better future start today."

This Commentary explores the interaction between the regulatory policy of the Endangered Species Act, public perception, and science in relation to the interpretation of risk to endangered species from various "stressors" associated with agricultural practices. In the absence of definitive government policy, courts are establishing risk mitigation procedures that may adversely affect agricultural productivity and practices. The authors address several potential remedies, including (1) better communication, (2) clear policy and agency coordination, (3) recognition and consideration of long-term impacts, and (4) balanced and consistent implementation.