By Jamie Martin
Agricultural leadership and collaboration were celebrated at the 2026 National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA) annual meeting in Portland, Maine. The organization honored an industry leader and a major agricultural company for their efforts to strengthen agriculture and support state agriculture departments across the country.
One of the event's highest honors, the Bill Northey Legacy Award, was presented to Dave Flakne, Head of State Affairs for Syngenta. The award recognizes individuals outside NASDA who have shown outstanding dedication to promoting the organization's mission and supporting agriculture through service, advocacy, and collaboration.
Flakne has spent decades working alongside agricultural leaders at the local, state, and national levels. Throughout his career, he has built strong relationships within the industry and helped encourage cooperation among organizations focused on supporting farmers and rural economies.
NASDA leaders noted that Flakne's commitment to agriculture has remained strong for many years. His consistent participation in agricultural discussions and events has helped strengthen communication between industry stakeholders and state departments of agriculture. Through thoughtful advocacy and partnership-building, he has contributed to the advancement of shared agricultural priorities.
The award is named in honor of Bill Northey and recognizes individuals who leave a lasting impact on the agricultural sector. By honoring Flakne, NASDA highlighted the value of leadership, dedication, and long-term involvement in addressing agricultural challenges and opportunities.
NASDA also presented its Public-Private Partnership Award to ADM. The award recognizes organizations that successfully partner with state agriculture departments to create programs and initiatives that deliver measurable benefits to agriculture.
ADM received the honor for its involvement in NASDA's 2025 United Kingdom Sustainable Aviation Fuel Inbound Trade Mission. Working alongside state agriculture departments from several Midwestern states, the company helped demonstrate how the agricultural industry contributes to renewable fuel production.
The mission focused on educating policymakers and stakeholders from the United Kingdom about the agricultural feedstock-to-fuel supply chain. Participants gained valuable insights into how crops and other agricultural resources are transformed into renewable energy products that can support sustainability goals.
Through facility visits and discussions with agricultural experts, visitors learned about the important role farming plays in renewable fuel development. The initiative also strengthened international relationships and highlighted opportunities for future collaboration between agricultural and energy sectors.
NASDA recognized ADM for providing access to facilities, sharing technical knowledge, and actively supporting engagement across multiple states. These efforts helped create a successful educational experience while showcasing agricultural innovation and the capabilities of the Midwest's farming industry.
A key contributor to the project was Greg Webb, ADM's Vice President of State Government Relations. With nearly 40 years of experience in the field, Webb helped connect industry leaders, policymakers, and agricultural stakeholders. His efforts played an important role in ensuring the success of the mission and enhancing cooperation among participants.
The awards presented during NASDA's annual meeting demonstrate the importance of partnerships, leadership, and innovation in agriculture. Individuals and organizations that work together can help address industry challenges while creating opportunities for producers and rural communities.
As the agricultural sector continues to evolve, collaboration remains essential. The recognition of Dave Flakne and ADM serves as an example of how leadership, expertise, and teamwork can support growth, sustainability, and long-term success across the agricultural industry.
Photo Credit: NASDA
Categories: National