ARS is confronting the biggest challenges to staple crops like grains. Craig Carlson is a Research Geneticist in the Cereal Crops Improvement Research Unit in Fargo, ND. His work focuses on oat quantitative genetics, with an emphasis on developing high-yielding varieties that have superior grain quality and stable disease resistance. Learn more.

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), also known as "forever chemicals", can persist in the environment and bioaccumulate in animals, humans, and plants. ARS is continuing to expand its PFAS research to address its impact on U.S. agriculture. Learn more.

ARS researchers found that reducing cereal rye and cotton seeding rates could save cotton producers time and money while still maintaining the same production levels for no-till cotton. Learn more about this important research. 

Food for Thought

Cognitive disease is a growing public health concern, and more research is needed to determine underlying factors that improve or degrade cognitive function. New research supports potentially key relationships between certain diet patterns, psychological stress, and the complex cognitive process of decision making. Watch this video 

ARS researchers aim to curb the spread of invasive pests and plants through Area-Wide Pest Management. Learn more.