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“CAST convenes and coordinates networks of experts to assemble, interpret, and communicate credible, unbiased, science-based information to policymakers, the media, the private sector, and the public.”
CAST was established in 1972 as a result of a 1970 meeting sponsored by the National Academy of Sciences, National Research Council. We are a nonprofit 501 (c)(3) organization with a membership composed of scientific and professional societies, universities, companies, nonprofits, libraries, and individuals. CAST’s Board is composed of representatives of the scientific societies, commercial companies, nonprofit or trade organizations, universities, and a Board of Directors.
The wide distribution of CAST publications to non scientists enhances the education and understanding of the public. At a time when the internet has made it more difficult to separate accurate and inaccurate information, it has never been more critical for reputable sources to deliver trusted, non-partisan information from authorities in their respective fields.
Our primary work is the publication of task force reports, commentaries, special publications, and issue papers written by volunteer experts—economists, legal experts and scientists from many disciplines. These documents cover issues related to:
We rely greatly on the support of our members, whose generosity helps fund the studies and publications that educate the public on important issues, and impact public policy.
“A world where decision making related to agriculture, food, and natural resources is based on credible information developed through reason, science, and consensus building.”
“Remembering Our Past ~ Ensuring Our Future” was the theme for the 40th Anniversary of CAST in 2012. We are a unique organization with a very important mission. Today, we continue to strive to assemble, interpret, and communicate credible science-based information as CAST has done continuously since 1972.
Click on the links below to view our 40th anniversary publication, CAST Paper No. 1, Agricultural Science and the Public, written by Norman E. Borlaug, and a CAST article honoring Dr. Borlaug, The Man Who Fed the World, at the time of his death in 2009. We hope you enjoy these documents of CAST history, and we welcome your ideas to strengthen our future.
Agricultural Science and the Public – written by Dr. Norman Borlaug
CAST Honors the “Man Who Fed the World,” Longstanding Advocate for CAST – a tribute to Dr. Borlaug
Workgroups at CAST are specialized teams of experts that focus on key areas within the agricultural sciences, including Animal Science, Food Science, and Plant and Soil Sciences. These workgroups bring together professionals, academics, and researchers who collaborate to analyze, interpret, and communicate critical scientific information on topics relevant to their fields.
Each workgroup is responsible for identifying emerging issues, conducting research, and producing authoritative publications—such as reports, commentaries, and issue papers. These publications are designed to provide credible, science-based information to policymakers, industry leaders, educators, and the public, helping to shape informed decision-making in agriculture, food, and natural resources. Through their collaborative efforts, CAST workgroups play a vital role in advancing knowledge and driving innovation in their respective areas.
This workgroup focuses on the science and technology related to animal health, welfare, and production. The experts in this group address issues such as livestock management, animal nutrition, and veterinary practices, providing science-based information to improve the sustainability and ethical standards of animal agriculture.
The Food Science Workgroup brings together experts in food safety, nutrition, and processing. This group’s work is dedicated to enhancing the quality, safety, and accessibility of food products, ensuring that advancements in food technology benefit both producers and consumers through rigorous, science-driven research and communication.
This workgroup focuses on the science behind crop production, plant genetics, soil health, and environmental sustainability. The experts here contribute to understanding how plants and soils interact within agricultural systems, aiming to improve crop yields, protect natural resources, and develop resilient farming practices for the future,
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2015
1985
1989
as Interim EVP
1990
1992
2001
2005
as Interim Advisor
2005
2013
1974
1986
Council for Agricultural Science and Technology
1987
University of Minnesota
1989
University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign
1990
Auburn University
1991
Ciba-Geigy
1992
Iowa State University
1993
University of Massachusetts, Amherst
1994
University of Massachusetts, Amherst
1995
Cornell University
1996
The Ohio State University
1997
Iowa State University
1998
International Food Policy Research Institute
1999
University of Missouri, Columbia
2000
Iowa State University
2001
University of California, Davis
2002
University of California, Davis
2003
International Rice Research Institute
2004
University of Florida, Gainesville
2005
Sasakawa Africa Association
2006
Iowa State University
2007
University of Illinois
2008
Columbia University
2009
North Carolina State University
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.
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