Preserve Rural Orange is a grassroots organization established in 2009 to protect land, farms and public health in Orange County, North Carolina. Offering timely public education on potential impacts of development, PRO has been influential in shaping policy and promoting constructive community dialogue.
Leading a series of successful public campaigns to stop detrimental development of rural land, we have limited the long-term impacts of proposed plans for a UNC airport, county waste transfer station, expanded UNC animal research campus, and commercial event centers. To ensure a transparent and accountable review process, we research and raise key questions about plans and permits, compliance, financial interests, and secondary and cumulative impacts.
A valued resource for citizens, businesses, nonprofits and government leaders, we also provide consulting services to community groups on organizing strategies.
Through timely news updates and accessible public records, we reach thousands of community members and bring citizens to the table for informed, proactive involvement in public policy.
Our work is strengthened by an ongoing partnership and collaboration with local residents and community organizations. We are grateful for the wealth of expertise shared with us by scientists, health care leaders, scholars, researchers, public officials, journalists, and land use, environmental, and legal experts.
Laura Streitfeld, Executive Director
Sadie Rapp, Community Outreach Director
If you'd like to get in touch, please reach out via the contact form.