The Value of WSAS
Addressing complex problems requires an accurate understanding of the problem and useful predictions about the trade-offs of potential interventions. Gathering relevant information is challenging because it lies in silos and because it is difficult to judge the validity of various and sometimes conflicting information.
The Washington State Academy of Sciences (WSAS) was created by state law to serve as an independent source of scientific and technical information. WSAS acts as a nonpartisan convener and honest broker, mobilizing experts across Washington and beyond to bring the best available information to policymakers and practitioners to make evidence-informed decisions in the interest of the public.
Growing with AI
How do we enable a safe, sustainable, and economically viable future for Washington agriculture in the age of AI?
In 2026, WSAS brought together farmers, researchers, technologists, and policymakers to identify the challenges Washington agriculture must address to thrive in the age of AI, weighing both its potential benefits and its risks. Our first-ever open Call for Ideas then surfaced promising ideas for a more productive, resilient, and economically viable future. Explore the winning ideas and our final report to see what we learned.
A unique resource for Washington state
Established by the Washington State Legislature to serve as a science advisory body for the state.
The Washington State Legislature funded the Academy to conduct a study to determine the value of distributed solar and storage in Washington state in order to create recommendations and options for a methodology or methodologies that utility regulators and governing bodies may use after the statutory four percent net metering threshold is met.
The Academy received a grant from the National Conference of State Legislatures to support the planning of a science policy fellowship program in Washington State.
Featured Publication
Beyond Net Metering
Designing a policy portfolio for measuring and realizing the value of distributed solar and storage in Washington.
This WSAS report, requested by the Washington State Legislature and conducted under contract with the Washington State Department of Commerce, examines the value of distributed solar and energy storage to inform future policies for compensating customers who generate their own electricity.
A transformational experience
Washington State Junior Academy of Sciences
WSAS proudly supports and celebrates the next generation of scientific leaders through the Washington Junior Academy of Science (WAJAS) Program. This program recognizes exceptional high school students from across the state for outstanding original scientific research and offers opportunities to connect with the research community in Washington and beyond.
October 28, 2026
The WSAS Thought Leaders Seminar Series brought together national and state experts, legislators, and WSAS members to ask how research and innovation can better deliver public benefit in Washington, with examples from energy and health.
October 26, 2026
High school students from across the state were recognized for their outstanding original scientific research.
October 14, 2026
Research and findings focus on measuring and maximizing the value distributed solar and energy storage can deliver for Washington state.
