Bill Northey, Iowa’s secretary of agriculture, plays an important role in helping Iowans evolve an agricultural strategy that can keep this state’s rural economy the envy of the world.

Northey has a vast knowledge of the agricultural world in Iowa and across the nation. He also has learned firsthand from journeys abroad about the agricultural realities in other lands. He knows well that exports are important to the rural economy here in Iowa and across America. Northey has worked hard both to sell American products and learn how the United States can best compete in a rapidly changing world economy.

Northey’s expertise makes him a valuable advocate for the agricultural community in the Hawkeye State. His stellar performance in that capacity has resulted in him being selected by his peers across the nation for a new – and highly prestigious – national leadership role. Northey has been elected to serve as president of the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture for 2011-2012.

“I’m excited for this opportunity and appreciate the support of NASDA members,” Northey said in a statement released by his office. “As negotiations pick up on the next farm bill and discussions continue on a variety of other important public policy areas, I am committed to providing a unified voice for the organization and working with NASDA members to highlight the important role of state departments of agriculture.”

This major national association is nonpartisan. It represents the commissioners, secretaries and directors of the state departments of agriculture in 50 American states and four U.S. territories. Northey is the first Iowan to head NASDA since 1982.

In addition to being important advocates for agriculture, NASDA members have vital regulatory duties. Food safety, environmental protection and animal and plant health are part of their diverse agendas.

With the growing importance for agriculture of advances in science and technology, Northey is an ideal person to head NASDA. He has made these priority areas during his tenure at the head of the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship.

Farm News congratulates Bill Northey on being selected for this critical leadership post. The members of NASDA have picked as their president a truly exceptional individual.