Dave Flakne and ADM recognized for advancing agriculture through leadership and collaboration
The National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA) recognized outstanding contributions to agriculture during its 2026 annual meeting in Portland, Maine. The organization presented its prestigious Bill Northey Legacy Award and the NASDA Public-Private Partnership Award to individuals and organizations that have demonstrated strong commitment to advancing agriculture and supporting state departments of agriculture.
The Bill Northey Legacy Award recognizes individuals outside NASDA who have shown exceptional dedication to strengthening agriculture and supporting the organization's mission. The award highlights leaders who have built strong relationships across the agricultural sector and helped address challenges facing farmers and rural communities.
This year's recipient was Dave Flakne, Head of State Affairs for Syngenta. Flakne was recognized for his decades-long commitment to agriculture and his close partnership with state departments of agriculture. Throughout his career, he has worked with agricultural leaders across the United States to promote collaboration, advocate for important agricultural issues, and support practical solutions that benefit producers.
NASDA praised Flakne for his consistent involvement in the organization. He has been in a familiar presence at NASDA meetings for more than three decades and has played an important role in building partnerships between industry leaders and state agriculture officials. His efforts have helped strengthen communication, encourage cooperation, and advance shared agricultural goals.
In addition to recognizing individual leadership, NASDA also celebrated successful public-private partnerships that create positive results for agriculture. The NASDA Public-Private Partnership Award honors organizations that work closely with state agriculture departments to deliver programs, projects, and services that provide meaningful benefits at the state or national level.
For 2026, the award was presented to ADM for its leadership and collaboration during NASDA's 2025 United Kingdom Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) Inbound Trade Mission. The company partnered with several state agriculture departments to showcase the important role agriculture plays in the renewable fuel supply chain.
ADM worked alongside agriculture leaders from Illinois, Iowa, and Nebraska to demonstrate how agricultural feedstocks are transformed into renewable fuel products. The initiative helped international policymakers gain a better understanding of the connections between farming, processing, renewable energy production, and public policy in the Midwest.
The trade mission also provided an opportunity to strengthen relationships between international stakeholders and agricultural leaders in the United States. Through facility tours, educational discussions, and industry presentations, participants were able to see firsthand how modern agriculture contributes to emerging energy markets.
NASDA highlighted ADM's willingness to share technical expertise, open its facilities for educational visits, and actively support collaboration across multiple states. These efforts helped create a valuable learning experience for international visitors while showcasing agricultural innovation and sustainability initiatives.
Greg Webb, ADM's Vice President of State Government Relations, was also recognized for his leadership throughout the project. Bringing nearly four decades of experience, Webb helped connect industry expertise with the priorities of state agriculture departments. His participation contributed significantly to the success of the mission and strengthened relationships among industry partners and government leaders.
The 2026 NASDA honors reflect the importance of collaboration in modern agriculture. Whether through dedicated individual leadership or strong organizational partnerships, the award recipients demonstrated a commitment to supporting farmers, advancing innovation, and fostering cooperation across the agricultural industry.
As agriculture continues to address challenges related to sustainability, energy, and food production, partnerships between industry organizations, government agencies, and agricultural leaders remain essential. NASDA's recognition of Dave Flakne and ADM highlights how cooperation and shared goals can create lasting benefits for farmers, rural communities, and the broader agricultural sector.
Photo Credit: NASDA