Orme Ranch Forever | Protecting Historic Ranchlands for Future Generations | Powered by KB Woods
Mayer, AZ | Conservation Campaign, Video Production, Public Relations
The Orme Ranch, one of Arizona’s most iconic working ranches, now stands at the threshold of permanent protection. Thanks to funding from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS), made possible through the 2018 Farm Bill, the Central Arizona Land Trust (CALT) will soon secure a conservation easement that protects this historic land forever.
Preserving Land, Legacy, and Livelihoods
Since 1929, the Orme Ranch has offered more than agricultural value. It has served as a living classroom for generations of Orme School students and campers, who explored its sweeping rangelands, hiked to Buzzard’s Peak, and learned beside its iconic mesas and farm fields.
Now, with the NRCS conservation easement in motion, CALT will eliminate the development potential across this vital landscape. As a result, the Orme Ranch will remain undeveloped and open for livestock, native wildlife, and educational use for generations to come.
Why This Project Stands Out
Among dozens of applicants in Arizona, the Orme Ranch emerged as one of only two projects selected for funding in 2025. CALT earned this selection not only because of the ranch’s cultural and ecological value but also due to its environmental qualifications. The land earned a designation as “Grasslands of Special Environmental Significance” (GSS), marking it as essential habitat for Arizona’s native Pronghorn antelope and other species.
If you’ve ever seen antelope darting near Big Mesa or Up Top, you’ve witnessed this thriving herd. These Pronghorn represent more than wildlife; they signal strong land health and resilient ecosystems. Because of this GSS designation, NRCS agreed to cover up to 75 percent of the conservation easement’s total value.
Launching the Orme Ranch Forever Campaign
To secure the remaining funds, CALT launched the Orme Ranch Forever campaign. This capital campaign aims to raise $400,000, which will satisfy the required 25 percent cash match, cover transactional costs, and support long-term land stewardship.
The Orme Family has already committed to the cause, offering a substantial reduction in land value as part of the match. Now, CALT is calling on donors, alumni, conservation supporters, and members of the Orme community to help close the gap.
You can make your contribution directly at www.centralazlandtrust.org. Every dollar raised moves this easement closer to reality and keeps this cherished land open and protected.
Collaborating to Tell the Story
To support the campaign launch, KB Woods Public Relations produced a moving visual narrative, spotlighting the land and its legacy. The short film, I Am Ash Creek, was written by Jeb Rosebrook, Stuart Rosebrook PhD, and Keith Woods, and narrated by Keith Woods. Anthony Canales and Keith Woods handled videography and editing, while Max Woods served as key grip. The final product delivers a compelling visual journey across the Orme Ranch, capturing its historical significance and timeless beauty.
Looking Ahead
By establishing the Orme Ranch Conservation Easement, CALT and its partners are protecting more than land. They are preserving a way of life rooted in stewardship, sustainability, and education. They are ensuring that Orme School students can continue exploring the mesas, tending to fields, and learning in nature’s classroom. And they are setting an example for conservation efforts across the American Southwest.
Final Call to Action
You have the power to help protect the Orme Ranch forever. Join CALT and the Orme Family in securing this easement by donating today.
Visit: www.centralazlandtrust.org
📞 Questions? Call Keith Woods at (602) 475-8179 or
📧 Email: clientservices@kbwoods.com
