Platform & Issues
Keeping Wake County in Balance
Four priorities for the Wake County Soil & Water Conservation District.
Wake County's greatest strength is its diversity—thriving communities, productive farms, vibrant downtowns, parks, forests, and open spaces. As our county continues to grow, we have an opportunity to preserve the balance that makes this such a special place to live. As your Soil & Water Conservation District Supervisor, I will focus on four priorities.
Support a Strong Local Food Economy
Agriculture is more than Wake County's history—it's part of our future. I'll work to strengthen partnerships and conservation programs that help farmers remain productive and profitable while encouraging innovation in local food production, farm-to-table businesses, agritourism, farmers markets, food hubs, value-added agriculture, controlled-environment agriculture, and urban farming. Keeping food production closer to consumers is a growing national and global trend, and Wake County is well positioned to become a leader.
Keep Farming a Competitive Choice
The greatest threat to agriculture in Wake County isn't growth itself—it's the economic reality that selling land often becomes more profitable than farming it. While the Conservation District doesn't control zoning or land-use decisions, it can be a catalyst for partnerships, education, and conservation programs that help landowners see agriculture as a viable long-term investment. I'll work with farmers, businesses, universities, conservation organizations, and local governments to encourage creative approaches that make working lands more valuable, strengthen rural entrepreneurship, and preserve the agricultural character that benefits every Wake County resident.
Protect the Natural Resources That Support Our Communities
Healthy soil and clean water are the foundation of thriving neighborhoods, productive farms, resilient watersheds, and beautiful parks. I'll support practical conservation practices that improve water quality, reduce erosion, strengthen our watersheds, increase resilience to flooding, and ensure these resources remain healthy for future generations.
Build Partnerships That Deliver Results
The Conservation District succeeds by bringing people together. I'll work to strengthen relationships with landowners, homeowners, businesses, schools, conservation organizations, and agricultural partners while increasing public awareness of the District's programs and opportunities. The best conservation solutions are built through collaboration—not regulation.
Stand With Jim
Help Jim bring this vision to the Wake County Soil & Water Conservation District.