By Justin Walker
Communications Specialist
The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced this week the Senate’s long-awaited confirmation of Bill Northey to the agency.
Northey will serve as under secretary of Agriculture for Farm and Foreign Agricultural Services (FFAS).
U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue commended the confirmation.
“I applauded Bill Northey’s patience over these many months, which demonstrates what a strong leader he will be at USDA,” Perdue said. “We thank everyone who worked on his confirmation.”
Northey has served as the Iowa Secretary of Agriculture since January 2007. His career in agriculture includes serving as president of the National Corn Growers Association, as well chairman of the group the following year. He has worked closely with Iowa Farm Bureau, holding president and vice president offices for the Dickinson County Farm Bureau.
“Bill will come aboard at a crucial time, as his knowledge and expertise will be immediately put to use as the new farm bill is formulated to address the needs of American farmers,” Perdue said. “In addition, his leadership will be key in the newly-constituted mission area, where the Farm Service Agency, the Natural Resources Conservation Service and the Risk Management Agency will be providing an even better customer experience. I am excited to finally have Bill on board.”
Northey’s title will soon change to under secretary for Farm Production and Conservation (FPAC), following reorganization of USDA as directed by the 2014 Farm Bill. The newly-named position will encompass the USDA’s domestic-facing agencies.
American Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall also applauded Northey’s confirmation.
“Under Secretary Northey knows farmers’ and ranchers’ heartfelt commitment to protecting our natural resources. He’s walked the same soil we have as a fourth-generation farmer from Iowa and has a proven track record as a strong advocate for agriculture in his role as agriculture secretary in his home state,” Duvall said. “We are also confident he will be a key member of Secretary Perdue’s team working with the House and Senate Agriculture committees on the next farm bill and have no doubt he is ready to hit the ground running in his new role.”