Meyer makes picks to head DNREC, agriculture

Delaware Gov.-elect Matt Meyer announced his picks to head the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control and the Department of Agriculture.

For DNREC secretary, Meyer nominated Greg Patterson, who has served since 2022 as the infrastructure implementation coordinator and federal affairs coordinator for Gov. John Carney. In that position, he oversees the implementation of federal funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law for broadband, water, energy and transportation, according to a press release on the latest nominations. Patterson also spearheaded legislative initiatives including offshore wind procurement and traffic safety bills in 2023 and 2024, the release states. Patterson has more than 25 years of service in state government, starting with the Ruth Ann Minner administration before moving into the Jack Markell administration, as well as working for the state departments of justice and insurance.

Serving as deputy secretary for DNREC will be Dayna Cobb, current director of DNREC’s Division of Climate, Coastal, and Energy, which has helped develop the state’s Climate Action Plan, energy policy, Delaware’s electric vehicle and clean energy rebate programs, and plans addressing coastal environmental issues and Delaware’s National Estuarine Research Reserve.

“As Delaware faces unprecedented environmental challenges, it’s critical that we have strong, experienced leadership at DNREC,” said Meyer in a press release. “With his proven record of serving the people of Delaware, Greg possesses the skills and dedication required to lead the state into a future where both our environment and economy can thrive together.” 

Meyer’s pick to head the Department of Agriculture is Sussex County farmer Don Clifton, who is the current executive director of the Delaware Farm Bureau. Clifton was raised on his family’s farm in Sussex County, growing grain, soybeans and vegetables. For 50 years, he led Clifton Canning Company, processing vegetables.

He previously served as the state executive director of the USDA Farm Service Agency under Presidents Bill Clinton and Barack Obama, and he co-chaired Minner’s Strategic Economic Council for Agriculture and Biotechnology. 

"Don’s extensive experience in agricultural leadership, combined with his deep commitment to sustainability and community development, will be invaluable as we work to strengthen Delaware’s agricultural sector,” Meyer said. “Agriculture is part of Delaware’s history and will continue to be a part of its future, and I look forward to working with Don to support Delaware’s hardworking farm families.”