Science Policy

The ASA-CSSA-SSSA Science Policy Office strives, through education and advocacy activities, to inject science into policy making in order to influence federal funding for and legislation that impacts our sciences. The Societies' Science Policy Office works directly with the White House and Congressional offices -- view U.S. House of Representatives or U.S. Senate for listing of Representatives/Senators and Committees -- to promote legislation, rules, regulations, and funding supportive of the agronomic, crop, and soil sciences.

Science Education & Funding

Annually, on behalf of the American Society of Agronomy, Crop Science Society of America, and Soil Science Society of America, the Science Policy Office submits testimony to Congress stressing our funding priorities, and meets with the White House offices to both educate about and advocate for research, education, extension, and conservation as the annual budgets for U.S. agencies is convened on. These activities are critical if, in an increasingly competitive environment, we are to both protect and enhance federal funding for our sciences.

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Science Policy News

Fellowship, Internship Available

If you are interested in science policy, or know someone who is, consider applying for our Congressional Science Fellowship (PhD required) or Science Policy Internship (undergrads/grad students). Based in Washington DC, these are flexible, paid positions. Apply online by March 22, with reference letters and final submission due March 29.

Soil Science Grand Challenges

The Soil Science Society of America, in consultation with individual members of the U.S. National Committee for Soil Science and other experts in soil science, has identified research priority areas and critical knowledge gaps to guide interdisciplinary soil science research for the next 20 years and beyond.

Learn more about the Soil Science Grand Challenges

Greenhouse Gas Report

A report, Agriculture’s Role in Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Capture, commissioned by ASA, CSSA, and SSSA examines the evidence for greenhouse gas emissions and sequestration in America’s major agroecosystems. View Report (pdf)>>

Science Policy Blog

July 15th, 2011-House Representative Mentions Energy Sciences Coalition Letter in Energy and Water Bill Floor Debate
The House continued discussion on the FY 2012 Energy and Water Appropriations Bill yesterday, July 14th,...

Despite Democrat Efforts, House Appropriations Committee Republicans Get Their Way, Leading to Large EPA and Interior Cuts
The House Appropriations Committee met on Tuesday, July 12, to mark up the House Subcommittee of the...

Congressional Soils Caucus

The Congressional Soils Caucus (CSC) was formed in June 2006 as a means for SSSA to heighten Congress’ awareness of and appreciation for the importance and role of soil and soil science. The CSC has held several educational briefings to date. More information>>