James Kilgo
Richland Soil and Water Conservation District Associate Commissioner
Watershed Manager and Source Water Protection Specialist

Tell us about yourself.

After completing graduate school at the University of South Carolina, I began working with the South Carolina Rural Water Association (SCRWA) as a Source Water Protection Specialist. I spent four years in that role before accepting a fellowship with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in Washington, DC. I worked in the Office of Wetlands, Oceans, and Watersheds (OWOW) and was tasked with completing research and policy initiatives related to agricultural nonpoint source pollution. I returned to South Carolina and rejoined SCRWA as a Natural Resource Protection Specialist, focused on leveraging the reciprocal benefits between water and forests throughout the state. I am now the Watershed Manager/Source Water Protection Specialist with SCRWA.
 

Why did you join the Richland Soil and Water Conservation District (RSWCD)?

I am a firm believer in civic duty and felt joining the RSWCD was an appropriate way to do my part. Throughout my career, I’ve worked with a handful of other SWCDs and have always had positive experiences, which was another reason I chose to join the RSWCD.
 

What do you enjoy about RSWCD?

I enjoy the genuine passion members of the RSWCD possess.
 

What do you wish to tell the community?

The environment is a complex living system that requires diligence and constant care by the general public. I encourage all to find a way, big or small, to be involved in the preservation, protection, and/or enhancement of the environment.
 

What is an interesting fact about you?

I have an 1100 chess ELO rating.



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