Interactive CET 25 Posts

Interactive Sessions

Wednesday, August 13

Charting the Path: Focus Group on Individual Development Plans for SWCD Staff

Time: 8:30 AM – 10:AM
Room 107
Program Leads: Kristina Fischer & Brandy Myers
Organization: NC Division of Soil and Water Conservtion

This interactive session invites both new and experienced Soil and Water Conservation District staff—technical and administrative alike—to collaborate on improving the Individual Development Plans (IDPs) used to guide early career growth. These IDPs outline skill sets, training goals, and performance expectations tailored to each role. Your feedback will help refine these tools into practical, up-to-date resources that empower new employees and strengthen district capacity across North Carolina. Join the conversation and help shape the future of professional development for our conservation workforce.

Ready, Set, SWAT! Bringing Soil, Water & Agriculture Lessons to Life

Time: 8:30 AM – 10:AM
Room 109
Program Leads: Jessica Davis
Organization: NCASWCD

We’ve introduced the Project SWAT curriculum—now it’s time to put it into action! This hands-on workshop will walk you through ready-to-use lessons that can be integrated into your educational programs right away. Participants will also have the opportunity to provide feedback, share ideas, and help shape the future of this impactful training resource.

Beyond Easements: Farmland Preservation in Practice

Time: 8:30 AM – 10:AM
Room 108
Program Leads: Ryan Manning
Organization: NC Foundation of Soil and Water Conservation

Most of us know what a conservation easement is—now it’s time to go deeper. This 1.5-hour interactive discussion-based session will explore how farmland preservation programs really work, how districts can get more involved, and how to connect preservation with long-term community resilience. Bring your questions, challenges, and ideas for a practical, forward-thinking conversation.

The Birds, the Bees and the BMPs:  Why Wildlife Needs Your Plans

Time: 8:30 AM – 10:AM
Room 110
Program Leads: Kathryn Reis
Organization: NC Division of Soil and Water Conservtion

Wildlife doesn’t recognize property lines — and that makes farms and forests vital to their survival. This interactive session explores how Soil and Water Conservation Districts can integrate wildlife habitat needs into conservation planning, build strategic partnerships, and support landowners in managing working lands that benefit both agriculture and native species. Come ready to learn, laugh, and strategize for a more connected landscape.

Breakout Sessions CET

Breakout Sessions

Tuesday, August 12,

9 AM- 12:30 PM, Rooms 107, 108, 109 & 110

BMPs Toolkit – Room 109

Building a District BMP Proposal 🧰
Madison Bridges, Lincoln SWCD
Time: 9:10 AM
Got an idea for a district BMP? This presentation will cover one district’s experience with building and presenting a successful district BMP proposal.

Geocell Implementation in HUAs 🧰
Amelia Harold, Stokes SWCD
Time: 9:35 AM
Stokes BMP allows for Geocell installation as a component in Heavy Use Areas. Geocell is a tough, flexible grid system that helps to hold ABC stone in the heavy use area, potentially reducing the need for maintenance over the maintenance period and beyond. This session will explain contracting components, purchasing, benefits, and construction for HUAs using Geocell.

To Drill or Not to Drill: AgWRAP Water Storage Systems vs Additional Wells  🧰
Lorien Deaton, NCDA&CS – Division of Soil and Water Conservation
Time: 10:00 AM
Groundwater is a finite resource, and wells are becoming more expensive to install. This presentation will review AgWRAP water storage BMPs and when they may be a safer or more cost-effective option for cooperators.

Integrated Planning and Innovation – Room 109

Basics of an Engineering Plan 🧰
Rachel Smith, NCDA&CS – Division of Soil and Water Conservation
Time: 11:05 AM
Short version of reading plans developed by an engineer. Basics of what should be included and how to read plans.

Beginning the Journey into Advanced Drones and Multispectral Imagery 🧰
Charles Sanders, Dare SWCD
Time: 11:30 AM
Dare County’s experiences with the WingtraOne GenII drone and a RedEdge P+ Blue multispectral camera. Good decisions and mistakes, hurdles to be aware of, and the overall experience summed up.

CCAP: Program Overview and Site Assessment 🧰
Chris Love & Julie Henshaw, NCDA&CS – Division of Soil and Water Conservation
Time: 11:55 AM
Presentation will cover basics of the CCAP program, goals, purpose, limitations, application process, BMPs, and then a case study of a specific site and how we assessed it.

Disaster Response – Room 107

Organizing and Managing a District-run EWP Program 🧰
Ariel Zijp & Jill Carter, Buncombe SWCD & Tetra-Tech
Time: 9:10 AM
Buncombe County was devastated by Hurricane Helene. This session shares how Buncombe staff proceeded with EWP post-Helene. It includes organizing field crews, data collection, documentation, and coordination with multiple partners.

NCDA&CS Emergency Programs Overview 🧰
Ben Barham, NCDA&CS – Division of Emergency Programs
Time: 9:35 AM
Highlights the mission and capabilities of North Carolina’s Emergency Preparedness Program, focusing on how it supports farmers to enhance agricultural sustainability.

Lessons Learned from Helene 🧰
Ben Barham, NCDA&CS – Division of Emergency Programs
Time: 10:00 AM
Helene shares key takeaways from emergency response efforts, highlighting challenges faced during recent agricultural disasters and strategies used to support farmers and rebuild critical infrastructure.

Biochar – Room 107

Using Locally Sourced Biochar to Reclaim Hurricane Helene-impacted Soils 🧰
B. Todd Campbell, Joshua T. Padilla, USDA – Agricultural Research Service
Time: 11:05 AM
We will discuss preliminary results from a greenhouse study to assess the feasibility of amending Hurricane Helene-impacted soils with locally sourced biochar. The objective is to provide general guidelines for producers and landowners interested in using biochar as a soil amendment.

From Storm Debris to Soil Revival: A Biochar-Based Soil Restoration Project for Western North Carolina 🧰
Pabitra Aryal, NCDA&CS – Division of Soil and Water Conservation
Time: 11:30 AM
Explore how converting storm debris into biochar can restore degraded soils, improve water retention, and sequester carbon. Learn about the methodology, anticipated soil health benefits, and funding opportunities.

Bringing Biochar to WNC: A Regional Initiative for Conservation, Recovery, and Economic Growth 🧰
Dalton Buchanan, NCDA&CS – Division of Soil and Water Conservation
Time: 11:55 AM
This session highlights NC’s efforts to establish biochar production hubs that turn storm debris into valuable soil amendments. Learn about the Tigercat 6040, the pyrolysis process, and the economic, agronomic, and environmental benefits.

Mentoring: Growing Together – Room 110

I Can See Clearly Now 🎓 🧰 🗂️🧭
Greg Walker, Johnston SWCD
Time: 9:10 AM
Reflections on 44 years in conservation, offering insights and lessons for new Partnership employees based on a long and meaningful career.

Be an RCW Counselor! 🎓 🧰 🗂️🧭
Taryn Thompson, NCDA&CS – Division of Soil and Water Conservation
Time: 9:35 AM
Benefits of being a Resource Conservation Workshop Counselor—from building leadership and interpersonal skills to inspiring future conservationists.

Mentoring: Benefits from Both Sides 🎓 🧰 🗂️🧭
Brad Moore, Lindsay Edwards & Darren Layton, Alamance SWCD & Randolph SWCD
Time: 10:00 AM
Hear how mentoring can be fulfilling from both perspectives. Learn how the new mentoring program is building success for new district staff.

Innovative Outreach Programming – Room 110

Green Infrastructure Program for Youth 🎓🧰🧭
Jack Brown, Durham SWCD
Time: 11:05 AM
A youth program that addresses stormwater concerns and teaches students to design and implement practices. Learn about the experience, partners, and funding sources.

Microplastic… Community Action 🎓🧰🧭
Celeste Maus, Chowan SWCD
Time: 11:30 AM
Explore how to reduce microplastic health hazards through a community project focused on soft plastic recycling and reuse.

Community Engagement – Using Hands-on Activities at Outreach Events 🎓🧰🧭
Dru Harrison, New Hanover SWCD
Time: 11:55 AM
New Hanover SWCD uses interactive games like Soil & Water-themed Jenga and Plinko at community events to engage residents and raise awareness of its mission.

Education – Room 108

Education Contest Theme Resources – “We All Live in a Watershed” 🎓
Jessica Davis, NC Association of Soil & Water Conservation Districts
Time: 9:10 AM
Provides educators with resources for teaching the 2025–2026 education contest theme.

Tips for Planning Educational Field Days 🎓
Shelby Cook, Swain SWCD
Time: 9:35 AM
Get inspired with ideas for organizing and running successful, hands-on field day events for schools, including lessons learned and planning tips.

Camp RIO: Soil & Water Summer Camp Through Partnerships 🎓
Rose Wall, Buncombe SWCD
Time: 10:00 AM
This session shares how we built our summer day camp through needs assessments and key partnerships, with strategies you can use to create your own community-based programs.

Empowering Action: Accuracy, Access, and Advocacy in Practice – Room 108

Stamping Out Notary Mistakes! 🗂️
Rebecca Hanna, Henderson SWCD
Time: 11:05 AM
Learn about common notary errors in NC and how to avoid them. Notaries are key to document integrity—let’s get it right every time.

IRA TA Funds are Flowing! 🗂️🧭
Kristina Fischer, NCDA&CS – Division of Soil and Water Conservation
Time: 11:30 AM
Learn how your district can earn funding while supporting IRA program implementation. Includes comments from Wake SWCD (invited).

What is Advocacy and Ways it Works 🧭
Bryan Evans, NC Association of Soil and Water Conservation Districts
Time: 11:55 AM
How advocacy by the Association supports funding and policy efforts—and how districts can play a vital role in the process.

Legend

🧰 Technical

🎓 Education

🗂️ Admin

🧭 Leadership

New Belgium Asheville – Brewing & Stream Restoration Tour

Date: Thursday, August 14, 2025

Time: 10:00 AM-11:30 AM

Location: New Belgium Brewing: 21 Craven Street, Asheville, North Carolina 28806

Cost: Free

Embark on a journey that flows like the French Broad River itself—starting in the heart of the brewery and winding through thoughtfully restored creek corridors. Begin with an insider’s look at New Belgium’s brewing operations: see grain-to-glass in action as you pass mash tuns, fermenters, and the high-speed bottling line. Learn about the company’s employee-owned ethos and commitment to sustainability over a sample of their world-class beer.

Then, step outside to Craven Street and Penland Creek—where New Belgium partnered with the City of Asheville and RiverLink to transform a former brownfield into a thriving riparian habitat. You’ll visit bio-swales, rain gardens, constructed wetlands, and newly contoured creek banks planted with native vegetation—all designed to treat stormwater, stabilize stream banks, and enhance water quality before it reaches the French Broad River.

Your guide will share the story of uncovering and daylighting Penland Creek—restoring an underground waterway to support wildlife and community resilience—while also pointing out educational signage and sustainable site features like porous parking and rainwater harvesting.

This tour blends craft brewing culture with real-world environmental stewardship—ideal for beer lovers, landscape enthusiasts, and sustainability advocates alike.

Highlights: Brewing process • Penland Creek restoration • Sustainable site design • Possible tasting

New Belgium Brewery Asheville – ASLA Colorado

CET Mentoring Luncheon

CET Mentoring Luncheon

Are you new to the conservation field and looking to grow your network, ask questions, and learn from experienced leaders across the Soil and Water Partnership? Then don’t miss the CET Mentoring Luncheon, August 12—a unique roundtable experience designed specifically for professionals within their first three years in the field.

This informal, yet impactful event brings together early-career attendees and selected mentors for focused, small-group conversations covering a range of topics—from technical practices and district operations to outreach, education, and leadership development. It’s a rare chance to ask real questions, gain insights, and build lasting professional connections.

🍽️ Lunch is provided to all participants.

Space is limited, so be sure to register during your CET registration. If you’ve already registered and would like to join the luncheon, simply email Brandy Myers to be added to the list.

This is not an event you’ll want to miss—it’s where your next great connection could begin!

For Conservation Professionals with 0–3 Years of Experience
Tuesday, August 12 | Lunch Provided

Keynote Speaker: Tyler Brown

Keynote Speaker Biography: Tyler Brown

Tyler Brown is a dynamic conservation leader known for his strategic vision, collaborative spirit, and steady leadership in the natural resource community. As Program Manager in the Land, Water & Conservation Division of the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR), Tyler oversees key initiatives that safeguard South Carolina’s natural landscapes while strengthening the capacity of the state’s 46 soil and water conservation districts.

Currently serving as President of the National Association of State Conservation Agencies (NASCA), Tyler brings a national perspective to local conservation work. He is widely respected for his ability to bridge partnerships between agencies, elevate on-the-ground voices, and champion innovative, results-driven solutions to complex environmental challenges.

Tyler’s leadership is marked by his thoughtful decision-making, a talent for building consensus, and a deep commitment to public service. He believes in empowering local professionals, supporting long-term planning, and investing in people as the foundation of sustainable conservation.

A graduate of Clemson University with a Master’s in Forest Resource Management, Tyler also serves as a mentor and educator—sharing his time and expertise through alumni programs and as a certified hunter education instructor. His work reflects a balance of science, leadership, and heart—and he continues to be a guiding force for conservation professionals across the country.

President, National Association of State Conservation Agencies (NASCA)
Program Manager, South Carolina Department of Natural Resources – Land, Water & Conservation Division

NC Conservation Resource Fair & Opening Reception

NC Conservation Resource Fair & Opening Reception

Join us on Monday, August 11 from 4:00–6:00 PM in the Conference Center for the NC Conservation Resource Fair and Opening Reception—a fun, welcoming event to kick off your CET experience. This informal gathering is a great opportunity to check in, unwind, and connect with friends and colleagues from across the state.

The Resource Fair will feature temporary exhibit tables showcasing key conservation partners and programs, including the NCDA&CS Division of Soil & Water with information on cost share and technical programs, the NC Conservation District Employees Association, the Foundation for Soil and Water Conservation, and several educational hands-on activity stations. You’ll also find snacks, giveaways, and a fun round of networking bingo to help you engage with each table and meet new faces along the way.

Whether you’re a new employee or a seasoned professional, this is a great way to explore valuable resources, gather new ideas, and build relationships in a relaxed and engaging environment. Make plans to stop by—we’ll see you there!

Monday, August 11 | 4:00–6:00 PM | Conference Center

Soils Workshop

Date: Monday, August 11, 2025

Time: 9:00 AM– 4:00 PM

Location: Harrah’s Convention Center & Field Site

Cost: $40- lunch provided

Registration Deadline: July 15, 2025

This workshop equips conservation professionals with the knowledge and tools to effectively use soil data in support of best management practice (BMP) planning. Through a combination of classroom instruction and field-based learning, participants will explore how to interpret Web Soil Survey (WSS) data, identify key soil limitations such as drainage and slope, and understand when to consult a soil scientist. Designed for real-world application, this training emphasizes practical decision-making rooted in soil science, helping you plan smarter and more effectively in the field.

This program will start in the conference area and end with the field portion, after lunch.

NC Arboretum Gardens & Stream Restoration Tour

Date: Thursday, August 14, 2025

Time: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM

Location: NC Arboretum, Asheville, NC

Hosted by: Lauren Lampley, Adult Education Coordinator

Cost: Free

During this talk and tour, Adult Education Coordinator Lauren Lampley will guide the group around the NC Arboretum to check out a few key locations within our gardens. We will discuss the sustainable landscape practices that the Arboretum uses and how those can be in other places as well as special considerations that staff have had to keep in mind when implementing these designs. Be prepared to walk on both paved and gravel trail surfaces and if the group is able we can walk down to check out Bent Creek to see how streambank restoration work held up post-hurricane Helene flooding.

  • Meet at 9:15 AM in front of the Education Center
  • Tour begins at 9:30 AM | Ends ~11:30 AM
  • 2.5 hours | Free | Paved and gravel walking trails

Homepage – The North Carolina Arboretum

Ag in the Classroom Workshop

Date: Monday, August 11, 2025

Time: 9:00 AM– 4:00 PM

Location: Field Site( Walnut Creek Farm – 2155 Guge Rd, Bryson City, NC 28713- First Location) & Harrah’s Convention Center

Cost: $40- lunch provided

Registration Deadline: July 15, 2025

Ag in the Classroom (AITC) is a unique educational program that is dedicated to fostering an understanding for the importance of agriculture in North Carolina. Discover how to weave the power of agriculture into everyday PreK-12 lessons in science, math, social studies, and language arts. This workshop consists of indoor AITC activities and two local farm tours: Shelton Farms – one of the oldest continuously operating family farms in western North Carolina, and Walnut Creek Farm – a majestic Scottish Highland Cattle experience. Educators will see ag in action and learn how to use the AITC program to meet the educational needs of their students through NC Standard Course of Study-based agriculture-focused curricula, workshops, grants, and ag literacy books. AITC is affiliated with NC Farm Bureau.

This program will start at a field site and with the afternoon portion being in the conference area.

Streambank Stabilization Field Trip

Date: Wednesday, August 13, 2025

Time: 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM

Location: TBD

Cost: Free

Meetup Location & Time (for Carpooling): TBD

Join us for a field visit to an actively eroding streambank that is part of the EBCI Stream Restoration Program. This tour will highlight practical, on-the-ground techniques for evaluating existing site conditions, including visual assessments, basic measurement tools, and key field indicators of instability. We’ll also examine how historical and current aerial imagery can reveal long-term changes that influence site stability.

The group will discuss site eligibility considerations for conservation and restoration programs such as STRAP, CCAP, ACSP, and disaster recovery initiatives. Potential solutions tailored to the site will be presented, along with a discussion of the potential risks and limitations of less intensive design approaches.