Sept. 29, 2026
Whewww! This morning’s Soil & Water Conservation forum was a much-needed conversation about where Mecklenburg County is headed.
Candidates Barbara Bleiweis and Michael Betterly discussed the pressures growth puts on our water, farmland, soil, tree canopy and wildlife, and how conservation decisions affect every neighborhood.
I asked about the 111 million gallons of water used in Mecklenburg County, our reliance on the Catawba River, and the trade-offs of development, including AI data centers. Barbara Bleiweis widened the lens to include cumulative water and runoff impacts from irrigation, testing by Charlotte Water for the man-made “forever chemicals” known as PFAS, and the need for science-based guidance. She also described how development can alter waterways and leave farmers facing dam-safety costs for changes they did not control.
The audience raised concerns about sediment and stormwater runoff, disappearing tree canopy, and how residents can get involved. The panel discussed nature-based solutions, farmland preservation, regenerative farming, and making conservation education more accessible. Barbara Bleiweis also shared work involving biochar to address toxic metals in soil, supported by a $12 million grant.
One practical resource: Residents can access soil-test kits through public libraries and workshops through NC State Extension. The discussion also called for stronger environmental and STEM education, better mapping of organizations already serving communities and partnerships with institutions like UNC Charlotte.
Michael Betterly described his campaign as a labor of love, grounded in his academic background and a desire to help residents understand what is happening in their community. He noted the role pays $15 per meeting.
Closing words stayed with me: “We can do more.”
We can start by testing our soil, supporting local farms and community gardens, encouraging young people to explore environmental work, and staying engaged in decisions about development, water and land.
Let’s ask our leaders how they will protect farmland and tree canopy, manage runoff and make sure communities have a voice. A big thank you to forum leaders and today’s panelists.
Five Soil & Water candidates are on the Nov. 3 ballot. Two will be elected. Barbara Bleiweis, the current chair, has served since 2017. Michael Betterly is running for the first time. Not present were Makenzie Pearce and Long Tran. Jillian King has withdrawn.