Bill Northey, a longtime agricultural leader from Iowa, will be honored posthumously with the American Farm Bureau Federation’s 2026 Distinguished Service to Agriculture Award during the AFBF’s 107th Convention in Anaheim, California, Jan. 9-14.

In addition, former Virginia Farm Bureau Federation President Wayne Pryor will receive the American Farm Bureau Federation’s 2026 Farm Bureau Founders Award. The Founders Award and DSA are the highest honors presented by AFBF. 

AFBF established the Distinguished Service to Agriculture Award in 1928 to honor individuals who have devoted their careers to serving the national interest of American agriculture. The Iowa Farm Bureau nominated Northey for the award.

Northey was an avid supporter of agriculture for decades, working for farmers and ranchers across Iowa and the country. 

He was elected as the Iowa secretary of agriculture three times — in 2006, 2010 and 2014 — before being tapped by President Donald Trump to be under secretary for farm production and conservation at USDA. 

He held that post until 2021 and became the CEO of the Agribusiness Association of Iowa in May 2022. He passed away in February 2024 at the age of 64. 

Iowa Farm Bureau President Brent Johnson said Northey left an enduring legacy on agriculture in Iowa and nationwide. 

“It is impossible to completely describe Bill’s impact on agriculture,” said Johnson. “It didn’t matter if we were talking about the latest heavy-hitting agriculture issue or tractors or family; Bill was always an intensive listener, and I never saw him distracted by what was happening in the background or who walked into the room. When talking with Bill, Bill was talking with you.”

AFBF President Zippy Duvall also reflected on Northey’s contributions to agriculture. 

“Bill Northey demonstrated true leadership through his character and forward-thinking approach to agriculture,” he said.

“From his years as Iowa’s secretary of agriculture to his service at USDA, Bill championed conservation and innovation while never losing sight of farmers’ needs. His lifelong dedication strengthened the foundation of American agriculture and the Farm Bureau family. 

“We are proud to honor his legacy and lasting impact.”