Patsy is a long time supporter of nurturing our natural resources. As a teacher, she initiated recycling programs in her schools and was a role model for sustainability for her students. As a Buncombe County commissioner, Patsy supported zoning in order to protect property rights and protect our natural resources. She led the push to begin recycling in Buncombe County.

• Support  statewide steep slope legislation in order to protect home owners as well as the mountains.
• Oppose the purchase of mountain top removal coal and the construction of additional coal-fired power plants in North Carolina.
• Support alternate energy sources such as solar and wind energy.
• Protect our rivers and wetlands to ensure the viability of these vital resources.
• Support sustainable development that will encourage a new green economy to come to western North Carolina.
• Support alternate  transportation  initiatives, such as public transit and more bike friendly roads. This  would reduce vehicular emissions and fossil fuel consumption, as well as provide options for those who need it.