Johnston County Environmental Health Leader Honored

SMITHFIELD – Johnston County has a new Hall-of-Famer. David Fulcher, an environmental health specialist with Johnston County’s Division of Environmental Health, has been inducted into the Steve Steinbeck Onsite Water Protection Hall of Fame.

Fulcher and his team are responsible for siting, designing, permitting, and inspecting groundwater wells and septic systems throughout the county. Their work protects groundwater quality and ensures compliance with state and local regulations.

The Hall of Fame honor recognizes Fulcher’s “career of exemplary service for environmental protection and public health in the State of North Carolina.” The N.C. Onsite Water Protection Conference presents the award annually. It is named for Steve Steinbeck, who wrote North Carolina’s first set of rules for septic systems.

Fulcher has served as an environmental health specialist for 26 years, starting his career in Johnston County right after college. In 2017, he was promoted to supervisor, overseeing the department’s daily wastewater and well operations.

“David has been extremely accountable, dependable, and a hard worker,” said Todd Ramsey, director of Environmental Health. “He applies his knowledge of wastewater rules evenly and accurately, exhibits great customer service skills, and presents a positive image to all within Johnston County.”

Ramsey added that Fulcher is equally dedicated to training staff. “David takes great pride and care in working with staff,” he said. “He works with them daily to deepen their understanding of wastewater systems and their regulation.”

In addition to his supervisory duties, Fulcher promotes water quality through education. He leads monthly meetings to update staff on new regulations and how to interpret and apply them. For the past eight years, he has organized the annual Johnston County Wastewater Conference, which typically draws hundreds of participants.

Fulcher lives in Smithfield with his wife, Emily, and their sons, Kevin and Dillon. He enjoys boating and is active in his church, Hopewell Original Free Will Baptist.