In addition, Yavapai County's fresh produce growers need new and better ways to increase yields and market their fresh produce locally. Farmers, landscapers, and home gardeners also need information on local climate conditions and management practices. Water Most of the water used for domestic, industrial, and agricultural use in Yavapai County is supplied by ground water. Ground water mining has recently been declared within the Prescott Active Management Area. This also has raised concerns about the perennial flow of the Verde River in Verde Valley communities.
Water quality is also a growing area of concern in Yavapai County.
Rural residents not only rely on private wells for domestic water, but septic systems for sewage disposal. Ground and surface water issues are serious issues that need to be addressed for Yavapai County's continued growth and prosperity. Horticulture Marketing and assisting local fruit and vegetable producers increased the viability of small agricultural operations and increased public awareness about food and fiber production. In addition, a Farm Fresh brochure, listing all the producers in the county and a planting and harvest schedule for specific crops, was distributed to 1,200 consumers. This brochure helped increase produce sales for local growers.