By Scout Nelson
Former Minnesota congressman Collin Peterson and former Kentucky Farm Bureau President Mark Haney have been recognized with the American Farm Bureau Federation’s (AFBF) highest honors for 2025. Peterson received the Distinguished Service to Agriculture (DSA) Award, while Haney was awarded the Farm Bureau Founders Award. These prestigious accolades will be presented at AFBF’s 106th Convention in San Antonio, Texas, from January 24 to 29.
The Distinguished Service to Agriculture Award, established in 1928, honors individuals who have dedicated their careers to advancing American agriculture. The Founders Award, introduced in 2017, celebrates outstanding contributions to Farm Bureau’s mission and leadership in the agricultural community.
Peterson, nominated by the Minnesota Farm Bureau, has championed agricultural interests for over four decades. During his tenure in the U.S. House of Representatives, he played a pivotal role in shaping agricultural policies as chair of the Agriculture Committee, particularly in passing the 2008, 2014, and 2018 farm bills. Currently, Peterson continues to advocate for the industry as founder of the Midwest Council on Agriculture and president of a public policy firm. Reflecting on the award, Peterson shared, “It’s a high honor to receive this recognition for my work in agriculture.”
Haney, nominated by the Kentucky Farm Bureau, led the organization for 15 years before stepping down in 2023. His leadership focused on empowering farmers and advancing agricultural sustainability at all levels. Haney’s initiatives, such as the Certified Farm Market Program and Generation Bridge Program, have had a lasting impact on Kentucky agriculture. “It is very humbling for me to receive this award,” said Haney. “I know the quality of people that serve in Farm Bureau and things that they have accomplished. For me to be mentioned in that elite group is such an honor.”
Current Farm Bureau leaders commended the honorees for their unwavering commitment. “I think what made him successful was his candidness and his bipartisan nature,” said Minnesota Farm Bureau President Dan Glessing. “When folks had issues or concerns with legislation, they would go to him and come back with a clear answer. You didn’t have to wonder where you stood with him.”
Both Peterson and Haney’s achievements reflect their lifelong dedication to the betterment of the farming community and its sustainability for future generations.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-zoran-zeremski
Categories: Minnesota, Business