Mike Naig proudly serves as Iowa’s Secretary of Agriculture.
Early in his life, Mike learned the value of hard work from his dad and uncle on their crop and livestock farm near Cylinder, Iowa. Mike has spent his entire career working in agriculture and is inspired by the passion and commitment of the hard working men and women who keep us fed and fueled. As the fourth generation from his family’s farm, Mike understands rural Iowa and the importance of caring for the land while ensuring that Iowa farms provide a great living for farmers.
Mike joined the Iowa Department of Agriculture & Land Stewardship in 2013 as Deputy Secretary to former Secretary Bill Northey. As Deputy, Mike was responsible for overseeing the operations of the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship through development of policy and responsibility for budget and personnel. One of his involvements at the Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship has included working towards developing an intensive plan that utilizes research and lays out steps that improve water quality and soil health. As the Deputy, Mike has lead multiple trade missions around the world, advocating for Iowa agriculture, both domestically and internationally. He knows the importance of building strong relationships and works with industry leaders to strengthen trade agreements and all markets that positively impact farmers.
Mike was appointed to the position of Secretary by Governor Kim Reynolds on March 5, 2018 when his predecessor, Bill Northey, was confirmed by the U.S. Senate to serve as USDA Undersecretary. He was elected to a full term on Nov. 6, 2018. Mike is a graduate of Buena Vista University in Storm Lake with degrees in biology and political science. Mike and his wife Jaime have three boys: Mitch (11), Zach (10), and Joe (4). They are both active members of the Zion Lutheran Church and are active within their community. Mike and Jaime spend as much time as possible on the Naig family century farm in Northwest Iowa, teaching their boys the lessons and values that come with being involved on a generational Iowa farm.