Looking for information about the Forsyth County Soil and Water Conservation District Candidates? Here are some FAQs about the 2026 race.
What is the Forsyth County Soil & Water Conservation District Board of Supervisors?
The Forsyth Soil & Water Conservation District is a non-regulatory government Board established by state law that plans, coordinates, and establishes local soil and water conservation priorities. The Board consists of 3 elected members and 2 appointed members. They meet monthly to manage the conservation programs that help landowners in protecting the natural resources within the county.
There are 5 candidates running for this position. Voters have the opportunity to vote for 2 candidates.
Candidate responses to PEA's Survey:
1. How important is it for the Forsyth Soil & Water Conservation District to address the impacts of climate change on a scale of 1 (unimportant) to 5 (very important)?
What is the most important thing the Forsyth Soil & Water Conservation District can do to make the County more resilient and environmentally sustainable?
Toby Bost
3
The SWCD has a ranking system that is used for setting priorities for environmental issues that are addressed. Best management practice that reduce soil loss and improve water quality in our watershed receives cost share funds allocated to landowners.
Andrew Kepins
3
Moderately important because climate‑related changes (storm intensity, erosion, water‑use pressure) directly affect soil and water resources the district already manages. Protect and maintain the existing natural resources the county already has soil health, water quality, farmland, and conservation easements. Preserving what’s already functioning well is the foundation of long‑term resilience.
Betsy Johnson
Strong 5
Droughts and superstorms are pushing Forsyth County into an unsure future with water conservation. Multi-pronged approaches are vital to the health and safety of our citizens and visitors. North Carolina is ranked #2 in the nation for business with corresponding increases in population. Housing construction alters the topography and can result in flooding of our streams and tributaries. Our natural wetlands are a vital buffer that must be protected by decisions of soil and water conservationists. Forsyth County is poised to be a shining example of what far sighted proper water and land conservation can do to preserve a quality way of life for us. Greenways, riparian buffers, attention to unpaved land and standing vegetation will help us prepare for the environmental and population stresses we will encounter.
Mark D. Apple: No Response
Selvet Kalu: No Response
2. Does the Forsyth Soil & Water Conservation District need to adapt programming priorities? How would you change the priorities of the Forsyth Soil & Water Conservation District?
Toby Bost
The SWCD reviews priorities annually. Projects are ranked by staff and supervisors. Government contracts have strict guidelines and supervisors vote to on applications after they have been vetted by state partners and staff. Farmers and landowners make application for cost share funds voluntarily. Funding sources can be from State Commission/NCDA-CS; or Federal/NRCS partners. Occasionally, projects develop from collaboration with private environmental business such as Land Trusts and engineering for profit companies.
Andrew Kepins
Yes. As land use patterns development pressure, and environmental conditions shift, the district should periodically adjust its programming to stay aligned with current needs. By protecting existing soil and water resources, improving erosion‑control education, and expanding technical assistance for landowners. Strengthening outreach, supporting conservation practices, and focusing on long‑term resource stewardship will help the district respond effectively to changing conditions.
Betsy Johnson
Yes. The environment is rapidly changing and we need to address priorities on a regular basis. Wetlands, water use and misuse, vegetative prevention of soil erosion should take a front seat to maintain quality of life in the county.
Mark D. Apple: No Response
Selvet Kalu: No Response