North Carolina Conservation Network with Kristen Rhodes

In this episode, Debbie and Laurie sit down with Kristen Rhodes, an organizer with the North Carolina Conservation Network (NCCN), to explore the power of grassroots action in protecting our state’s environment.

Kristen introduces NCCN as a statewide network of more than 60 environmental and justice organizations, all working collaboratively to safeguard North Carolina’s natural resources and public health. She highlights the group’s three key initiatives:

1. Campus Fellows Program – Engaging 30 students across 11 UNC campuses (including 3 HBCUs) to educate peers on environmental issues and encourage civic participation through nonpartisan voter outreach.

2. Environmental Justice Leadership Academy – A partnership with groups like the Southern Environmental Law Center and NC Environmental Justice Network, bringing together a diverse cohort (ages 14 and up) to visit historic sites, learn advocacy skills, and champion environmental justice in their communities.

3. Organizing Campaigns – Including efforts to protect wetlands, address “forever chemicals,” and host community events such as trivia nights, coffee meetups, and outreach at Charlotte Pride.

The conversation takes a deep dive into the critical importance of wetlands—nature’s “sponges” that reduce flooding, filter pollutants, and provide habitats for species like salamanders. Kristen explains how a 2023 Supreme Court decision and subsequent NC legislation narrowed wetland protections, leaving isolated wetlands vulnerable. The consequences? Increased flooding and biodiversity loss. NCCN’s campaign is mobilizing communities to push for stronger state-level protections.

Beyond wetlands, Kristen shares how NCCN partners with the Mecklenburg County Health Department to highlight environmental health disparities, and stresses the importance of individual action. From voting in local elections to signing petitions and connecting with local affiliates, she underscores that everyone can do something—big or small—to make a difference.

The episode wraps with a look at upcoming events, including trivia nights, cleanups, and the 2025 NC Breathe Conference hosted by Clean Air Carolina, reminding listeners that community is at the heart of conservation.

🌿 Whether you’re a seasoned activist or someone just beginning to care about local conservation, this episode shows how collective action and small steps can lead to meaningful change.