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FORSYTH COUNTY SOIL AND WATER CONSERVATION DISTRICT SUPERVISOR {_getChooseLabel(this.selections.length)}

The non-paid board of supervisors meets monthly to establish local soil and water conservation priorities based on the needs of the district. The Board chairs work groups to address these priorities through the installation and implementation of best management practices that protect and improve the natural resources within the district. The work is accomplished by partnering with local, state and federal agencies; businesses; and non-profit organizations for technical and financial assistance. The Division of Soil and Water Conservation administers ACSP, AgWRAP and CCAP, and holds each local board of supervisors accountable to these state programs.Each district is governed by a five-member board of supervisors. Three supervisors are elected on the general ballot as non-partisan candidates during the regular election of county officers, and two are appointed by the NC Soil and Water Conservation Commission upon recommendation of the local district board of supervisors.

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  • Candidate picture

    Mark D. Apple
    (NON)

  • Candidate picture

    Toby Bost
    (NON)

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    Betsy Johnson
    (NON)

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    Salvet Kalu
    (NON)

  • Candidate picture

    Andrew Kepins
    (NON)

Biographical Information

What experience and skills make you the best candidate for this office? (Max. 750 characters)

What are the most pressing needs currently facing your Soil and Water District, and what do you propose to address them? (Max. 750 characters)

What is the most effective service/program the Soil and Water District currently provides for your county? (Max. 750 characters)

Additional Comments (Max. 1000 characters)

Position/philosophy statement Forsyth Soil and water District Supervisor
Campaign Mailing Address 1765 NC HWY 66 S
KERNERSVILLE, NC 27284
Current Occupation Farmer
Age (optional) 65
Raised up and been farming my entire life. From tobacco as a kid up until 1982. I spent 6 yrs.(4 active duty, 2 yrs.reserve) US Army 82nd Airborne Division, Ft. Bragg, NC as a Paratrooper. I discharged from Active duty (Honorable) in May of 1986. I returned home to the farm. Due our small acreage, I knew I couldn’t make farming my only income so I need a career. My other passion was Firefighting which I already had my certifications from being a Volunteer Firefighter I went to the military. I was hired by the Kernersville Fire Department in Dec. 1986 worked up to the rank of Captain. I retired Dec. 2013. All the while I farmed growing Blueberries and hay, still doing that present. My family has always tried to be good stewards of the land.
Funding is always at the top. Helping the declining farm in the county.Erosion with all the new growth in the county. Continue to look for was to keep our soils in place, as the building continues in the county, the more trees, woodlands, and farmland being replaced by buildings, concrete and asphalt the more erosion is going be.
Livestock wells- to keep animals off stream banks and out of ponds Irrigation ponds- crop irrigation Drill rental program- for smaller farms that can’t afford to buy them to plant crops Well abandonment
Candidate has not yet responded.
Position/philosophy statement Help landowners and Forsyth resident choose best management practices that prevent soil loss and protect our water quality.
Current Occupation Retired
Campaign Phone 3366552756
Campaign Email tobybost@gmail.com
I have served the Forsyth district as an elected supervisor for 20 years. Prior to joining the Soil and Water district o was employed by NC State Coop Extension as a county agriculture agent. I have taught hundreds of green Industry professionals about resource conservation in Extension and Forsyth Tech courses
Our soils in the triad area are highly erodible. Landowners can take advantage of cost share programs to prevent soil loss and maintain productivity. Water resources are impaired due to urban development. Providing assistance and education to developers and farmers is necessary as available land has become limited and expensive.
Our two staff conservationist, provide private consultations to residents and farmers. They seek funding form governmental programs to offset the costs of putting essential practices on the groundith
I have chaired the Forsyth Conservation District board for 12 years. We conduct business on behalf of our county residents with priority given to improving the quality of life in Forsyth County. More than $2 million of cost shares funds have been granted to this county during my 5 terms as a supervisor. The Agricultural Cost Share funds have been used to install best management practices on farms. Community Conservation Funds have provided nonfarm/ urban residents with a means to improve their property and conserve water.
Position/philosophy statement 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.
Campaign Mailing Address 4903 TIFFANY AVE
WINSTON SALEM, NC 27104
Current Occupation Business Development
Campaign Phone 3366929956
Campaign Email betsyjohns91@gmail.com
My relevant background is as a clinical microbiologist, university chemistry instructor and biotechnology business development professional with extensive experience in grants and government contracts. I hold a current North Carolina Real Estate Brokers license. As a founding partner of High Country Nordic Guides located on Roan Mountain and trail construction and maintenance person on Grandfather Mountain, I know first hand the immediate impact of responsible conservation.
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. We’re #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.
The Conservation Board assists communities with erosion, sediment control, source water protection, storm water management, flood plain management, water use efficiency, stream restoration, open spaces and small plot forestry management. The Board delivers State Conservation Programs and Federal Farm Bill Programs including wetlands restoration and wildlife habitat enhancement to Forsyth County citizens. We saw with Helene how important these programs are.
We’re at the bottom of the ballot, however Soil and Water Conservation is incredibly important, especially now. If elected, I promise to do my best.
Position/philosophy statement As a young woman running for office, my philosophy centers on service, integrity, and courage, grounded in the belief that leadership must listen with empathy and act with transparency.
Campaign Mailing Address WESMAR CT
PFAFFTOWN, NC 27040
Current Occupation Lawyer (Licensed only in Nigeria)
Age (optional) 32
Campaign Phone 7432403877
Campaign Email agbai.k@outlook.com
My experience in the legal field makes me a strong candidate for Forsyth County Soil & Water Conservation District Supervisor because I understand how regulations, land‑use policies, and environmental protections work in practice and not just on paper. I’ve gained experience interpreting statutes, navigating compliance requirements, and resolving conflicts. This background has strengthened my ability to listen carefully, evaluate complex information, and make fair, transparent decisions.
Water quality problems remain a pressing issue in my district. As a candidate for the Forsyth County Soil and Water Conservation District supervisor, I am committed to tackling local soil and water challenges by combining community engagement with practical conservation strategies, policy guidance, and efficient project management. I aim to educate residents on sustainable land practices, collaborate with environmental organizations, implement measures such as cover crops and riparian buffers, advise on local conservation policies, and provide incentives for sustainable practices through targeted programs. I will work to deliver measurable improvements in soil health and water quality while fostering meaningful community participation.
The Community Conservation Assistance Program (CCAP) is currently one of the most effective programs offered by the Forsyth County Soil and Water Conservation District, helping landowners improve water quality and manage stormwater through educational, technical, and financial support.
Candidate has not yet responded.
Campaign Mailing Address 475 REIGATE DR
KERNERSVILLE, NC 27284
Current Occupation Self-employed
Age (optional) 28
Campaign Email akepins0505@gmail.com
I bring hands‑on problem‑solving experience, a strong understanding of land management, and a practical approach to conservation. Working directly with residents and property owners has taught me how soil, water, and infrastructure issues affect people day‑to‑day. I focus on clear communication, fair decision‑making, and consistent follow‑through. I’m committed to protecting natural resources while supporting responsible growth, and I approach every challenge with a straightforward, results‑driven mindset.
Our district faces increasing pressure from development, erosion concerns, and stormwater challenges that affect both landowners and downstream communities. We need stronger support for conservation practices, better outreach to farmers and homeowners, and practical solutions that balance growth with resource protection. I propose expanding education programs, improving access to technical assistance, and strengthening partnerships with local agencies to ensure soil stability, clean water, and long‑term sustainability.
The district’s most effective service is its technical assistance and cost‑share programs that help landowners implement conservation practices. These programs directly reduce erosion, improve water quality, and support responsible land use. They give residents practical tools and guidance to solve real problems on their property. By connecting people with expertise and resources, the district makes conservation achievable and strengthens the long‑term health of our soil and waterways.
Candidate has not yet responded.