Blake Henley

SOIL & WATER CONSERVATION DISTRICT: Blake Henley, Soil Conservationist
Years worked with the County: 11

Briefly describe your job. What do you do?
I work with farmers on improving soil and water quality on farms. I administer cost share programs that are funded by NC Department of Agriculture/ NC Division of Soil & Water Conservation. I also assist landowners with soil sample interpretations. 

What is a typical workday like for you?
Every day is different. Some days I might be working on designs and paperwork in the office, other days I might be out on a farm checking on the installation of our contract designs.

What is your favorite aspect of your job – what do you enjoy doing most?
I enjoy the interactions with all the different landowners. I love talking to people and helping others protect our natural resources.

What is the County core value you believe most relates to the work you do, and why?
Doing It Together. It takes all of the community working together to protect our soil and water. Our programs target the agricultural community, but everyone in the community benefits from the farmers improving/protecting our soil and water quality.

What do you like best about working for Catawba County?
I love that we all feel like we are part of a family. We have all have the same goal of taking care of the citizens of Catawba County. 

Where did you grow up?
Balls Creek Community 

What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
Enjoying family time and farming.

Favorite movie, TV show, and/or book?
Indiana Jones Series and The Office.

Favorite musical artist or genre?
It depends on the day; I enjoy many genres of music.

Favorite sports team(s)?
Don’t have a favorite, but enjoy local short track racing and Dale Earnhardt #3.

If you could have one superpower, what would it be and why?
Time Travel. It would be awesome to go back in time and see all the past events that make us who we are today.