Prescott Area Wildland Urban Interface Commission

06/10/2026

Yavapai County Board of Supervisors Approves Ordinance Restricting "Jake Brake" Noise in Residential Areas

YAVAPAI COUNTY, AZ — The Yavapai County Board of Supervisors officially approved Ordinance 2026-1, a new measure designed to significantly reduce disruptive traffic noise and protect the quality of life in unincorporated residential communities. The ordinance strictly prohibits the use of engine and compression brakes—commonly known as "Jake Brakes"—within specified residential areas.

While engine braking is a standard practice used by commercial vehicles to slow down safely, the mechanical decibel level it produces in close proximity to neighborhoods has become a growing concern for local residents. Ordinance 2026-1 establishes a clear framework to address these disruptions, authorizing the installation of roadside signage to alert drivers and allowing for law enforcement to issue a $250 civil forfeiture penalty for violations.

"Our goal is to balance the needs of commercial transit with the right of our residents to quietly enjoy their homes and properties," said the Yavapai County Board of Supervisors Chair Brooks Compton. "By establishing these targeted zones and providing clear signage, we can keep our neighborhoods peaceful while maintaining safety."

The ordinance designates specific restriction zones across several communities where noise issues have been most prevalent. The prohibited zones include targeted segments within Williamson Valley, Skull Valley, Prescott, Iron Springs, Ho-Kay-Gon, and Cornville.

Yavapai County Public Works will begin deploying official regulatory signage at the entry points of these designated zones in the coming weeks. The ordinance takes effect immediately, and drivers of heavy machinery and commercial vehicles are encouraged to utilize standard braking mechanisms when traveling through these residential corridors.

For more information regarding Ordinance 2026-1 or to view a full copy of the approved text, please visit the Yavapai County website YavapaiAZ.GOV or contact the Board of Supervisors office at (928) 771-3200.

06/05/2026

Everyone's invited to the Granite Mountain Interagency Hotshot Crew Honor and Remembrance Ceremony, Monday, June 29 12 noon to 1 pm, followed by the celebration of the 8th birthday of the opening of the learning and Tribute Center.
Pine Rideg Market Place (Dillard's side)

06/05/2026

Monsoon Season Preparedness

YAVAPAI COUNTY, Arizona – As the 2026 monsoon season approaches, local emergency officials are urging residents to prepare for increased storm activity and sudden flooding risks. The Arizona monsoon season officially begins on June 15th and runs through September 30th. Monsoon thunderstorms typically produce half of the annual precipitation for central and northern Arizona. Because these storms develop rapidly, they can cause severe property damage and a sudden onset of flash flooding.

The Yavapai County Office of Emergency Management (YCOEM) and the Yavapai County Flood Control District (YCFCD) remind residents to take proactive steps to protect their homes and families now, especially if they live in low-lying areas or FEMA-designated flood zones.

Because monsoon storms can impact both residential areas and popular outdoor recreation spots, local meteorologists urge extreme caution for those exploring the region's diverse landscape. "Whether you're hiking a slot canyon or cooling off by a creek in northern Arizona, always monitor the forecast before heading out, and have a way to receive potentially life-saving weather alerts while in the backcountry," warns Megan Taylor, Warning Coordination Meteorologist from NWS Flagstaff. "Remember, in areas near fire scars and within canyons, flash floods can happen in minutes. Don't let a sudden storm catch you off guard!"

Sandbags are a highly effective, low-cost way to protect your home against major sheet-flow and floodwater damage. Yavapai County residents can fill sandbags for free at any of the 23 self-service filling locations positioned across the county. Residents must bring their own shovels, as tools are not provided at the stations. To locate the nearest sandbag-filling site to you, visit www.yavapaiready.gov/sandbags.

Beyond sandbags, residents can significantly reduce their risk by implementing these five safety measures before the first storm hits:
1. Prepare an Emergency Kit: Build or refresh a disaster supply kit for yourself, your family, and your pets.
2. Clear Property Drainage: Clean out rain gutters, trim trees around your home to prevent wind damage, and inspect or repair roof tiles and shingles.
3. Know Your Risk: Identify if your home or property sits within a recognized flood zone by entering your address at msc.fema.gov.
4. Practice Roadway Safety: Never attempt to drive through a flooded wash or roadway. It only takes 12 inches of rushing water to carry away most cars. Remember: Turn Around, Don’t Drown.
5. Stay Informed: Keep local news and weather alerts handy. Ensure your cell phone is set to receive Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEAs) for your immediate area.

The National Weather Service uses simplified, impact-based language to ensure the public knows exactly when to take action. Familiarize yourself with these core definitions:
* Flood Watch (Be Prepared): Issued when atmospheric conditions are favorable for flooding to develop. It does not mean flooding is guaranteed to happen, but you should have a plan in place and monitor updates.
* Flood/Flash Flood Warning (Take Action!): Issued when dangerous flooding is imminent or already occurring. A Flash Flood Warning means minutes matter. Move to higher ground immediately if you are in a low-lying area.
* Flash Flood: A sudden, violent flood that can take anywhere from a few minutes to a few hours to develop.

Flash flooding can happen incredibly fast, sometimes with little to no warning. You can experience a dangerous flash flood downstream even if it is not raining directly in your immediate area.

For comprehensive flooding preparedness information, local emergency resources, and mitigation tips, visit www.yavapaiready.gov/flood.

To research FEMA-designated flood zones or learn more about the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), please visit the Yavapai County Flood Control District at www.yavapaiaz.gov/ycflood.

06/05/2026

HELP SAFEGUARD YOUR COMMUNITY
The NFPA® Wildfire Division provides resources to residents and safety professionals to help ensure everyone living in communities at risk has the information, knowledge, and tools to prepare and protect their homes from the threat of wildfire.

Your Home and Wildfire. Choices That Can Make a Difference.

Wildfire Community Preparedness Day is a campaign that encourages people and organizations everywhere to come together to take action to raise awareness and reduce wildfire risks. It's not too late to make a difference in your community!
Watch the Video → https://www.nfpa.org/events/wildfire-community-preparedness-day?order_src=f224&utm_campaign=emil0785&utm_medium=email_medium&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-9j5xe2Q2i6Q90fM_GwJGtTOua2zAxBA7SDhYzZ0zGMmHFL2Y7ld3zzeMwrDW3CtlGr91-W7NjiSr_cl_n3-vT6pIpkYg&_hsmi=421873941&utm_content=mtpl&utm_source=emil

Put Your Project On The Map
A great way to share what you’re doing to make a difference is to include your planned project or event on the Wildfire Community Preparedness Day map.
Add Your Project → https://www.nfpa.org/events/wildfire-community-preparedness-day/map-your-project?l=41%3Futm_source%3Demil&order_src=f224&utm_campaign=emil0785&utm_medium=email_medium&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-86SaiGPoCyrA-8ntZxteYbbexN2e3PXBohMTKvGOfqUNPS4fw3NghP9aoLWCbVt_0C_o5wq9sN7u_N5kkdAI6S3Dd12A&_hsmi=421873941&utm_content=mtpl

Firewise USA Program Toolkit
Firewise USA® Resources
The Firewise USA® program provides simple, effective resources to help communities reduce the risk of destruction from wildfire. Check out the Firewise® Toolkit, fact sheets, and more!
Learn More → https://www.nfpa.org/education-and-research/wildfire/firewise-usa/firewise-usa-resources?order_src=f224&utm_campaign=emil0785&utm_medium=email_medium&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-_6APAqi7CZ-157n3PLO76vJe0VlgBBlO-UqMqxJKtbRosBAbF8GKiw2e0PtyzThkagE3fY7wdeWamTX02CcKCxExyzdA&_hsmi=421873941&utm_content=mtpl&utm_source=emil

Reducing Wildfire Risks to Property: Help Protect Your Home or Business
Free Online Training
Reducing Wildfire Risks to Property: Help Protect Your Home or Business
This free online training course outlines risk factors and science-based steps and tips to better protect your property. Start learning today!
Take the Training → https://www.nfpa.org/product/reducing-wf-risk:-protecting-home-or-business/olwfbh22%C2%A0%20%20?order_src=f224&utm_campaign=emil0785&utm_medium=email_medium&_hsenc=p2ANqtz--JfYt3vzgeQeDSmlPb2zEcXWfITRbu62J6a429vigEUHFc9rkPlxN-q4y9ekecyodq0F36qrncYF5nCbVI6zinm2gq6g&_hsmi=421873941&utm_content=mtpl&utm_source=emil

Contact Your State Liaison—Firewise USA®
Firewise USA® has state liaisons who are appointed by the state forestry/fire agency to serve as the official point of contact in their states. Find yours today!
Find Your State Liaison → https://www.nfpa.org/Education-and-Research/Wildfire/Firewise-USA/Become-a-Firewise-USA-site/Contact-your-state-liaison%20%20?order_src=f224&utm_campaign=emil0785&utm_medium=email_medium&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-8XfemUuAAb5MwOyp43B_zjzbMu-zOZRVvBaVyQYuWjyKg_Pn3ORQwqtM71KxVpC84Y7nzGKm8rnnQm3yNZsj3U1IDYHQ&_hsmi=421873941&utm_content=mtpl&utm_source=emil

We'd Love to Hear from You
Contact the NFPA Wildfire Division for more detailed information and guidance on how to protect your community from potential wildfire threats.

Contact Us Today → https://www.nfpa.org/forms/NFPAs-Wildfire-Division?order_src=f224&utm_campaign=emil0785&utm_medium=email_medium&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-_gl4x2soQfiQlXuQDvWD9pZCzh5dpWTttlBhbtiUuk9gbOkA8eUUW-oOxeLKEflw0vgG6i3RAVb7_DN2oeDcD28nHmZQ&_hsmi=421873941&utm_content=mtpl&utm_source=emil

Commit a couple of hours, or the entire day and join others throughout the nation making communities a safer place to live every May.

06/04/2026

LASER *** Large Animal Shelter and Emergency Readiness *** Looking for Volunteers!

When disaster strikes, will you be the one helping hand for those who can’t ask? In a split second, an emergency can change everything—especially for our large animal companions. Whether it’s a wildfire, a flood, or a sudden evacuation, horses and barnyard animals are often the most vulnerable during a crisis.

LASER is looking for dedicated volunteers to join our front line and support teams. We don’t just provide a roof; we provide a lifeline!

Why LASER Needs You
Disaster readiness isn’t just about the moment of impact—it’s about the preparation and the community strength built beforehand. By joining LASER, you ensure that no animal is left behind due to a lack of resources or hands.

As a LASER volunteer, you can help with assisting with the intake, feeding, and care of animals in our temporary shelters. You can also help with non-shelter duties such as booth duties and fund raising. We provide readiness training and education to ensure we are always prepared.

To learn more about LASER, and apply as a volunteer, please visit www.laser-shelter.org! Invite friends and family!

“The greatness of a community is most accurately measured by the compassionate actions of its members during a crisis.”

Questions? Call 928-713-9691

Donate to LASER: https://laser-shelter.org/donate-now

06/04/2026

Yavapai County Launches New GIS Interactive Map;
Public Comment Period Opens May 11

YAVAPAI COUNTY, AZ – Yavapai County is excited to announce the launch of its new Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Interactive Map, providing a modern digital experience for residents and professionals to access property information and county data.

A Modernized Mapping Experience
The new Interactive Map features an updated digital platform designed for improved usability and performance. While the application retains many familiar tools from the previous version, users will notice a more streamlined interface and updated functionality. This upgrade is essential as the technology supporting the legacy map reached its end-of-life in 2024.

Public Feedback Period
The County invites the public to explore the new platform and share their thoughts during an open comment period from May 11 through June 12, 2026. User input is vital for refining the experience, though the County notes that some modifications may be limited by software capabilities.
Share Your Feedback with Us: Email, [email protected] or call: 928-771-3169

To participate, users can:
• Explore the New Map: New Interactive Map
• Review the Help Guide: A comprehensive guide is available to assist users in navigating the new features HERE.
• Submit Comments: Feedback can be sent via email to [email protected] or by calling 928-771-3169.

Transition Period
To ensure uninterrupted service, the legacy Interactive Map will remain available during this introductory phase. Following the review of public input, Yavapai County plans to fully transition to the new platform and retire the legacy system.

About Yavapai County GIS
The Yavapai County GIS department provides essential mapping and property data services to residents, land professionals, and government agencies to support informed decision-making across the region.

06/03/2026

Yavapai County Launches Emergency Communication Brochure to Improve Disaster Response for Vulnerable Residents

YAVAPAI COUNTY, Arizona. – Yavapai County Community Health Services has introduced a new bilingual Emergency Communication Brochure designed to help residents communicate essential needs during emergencies, disasters, evacuations, sheltering operations, and medical incidents. The brochure serves as a portable communication aid for individuals who may have trouble speaking or understanding spoken language during stressful situations. It includes visual symbols, bilingual English Spanish text, emergency preparedness planning tools, medical information sections, and an emergency communication board that allows users to point to specific needs.

“During an emergency, communication can become one of the biggest barriers to receiving assistance,” said Sean Underhill, Yavapai County Community Health Services Emergency Preparedness Coordinator. “This brochure provides a simple, visual way for people to communicate critical needs such as medical conditions, pain levels, transportation needs, food, water, shelter, medication, and family reunification.”

Key features include:
*Bilingual English Spanish communication support
* Emergency medical and health icons
* Pain assessment scale
* Body maps for indicating injuries or symptoms
* Personal emergency contact information
* Emergency preparedness planning questions
* Go-bag preparedness reminders
* Shelter and evacuation communication tools
* Quick-access YES and NO responses
* Alphabet board for spelling words

The brochure is intended for use by emergency shelters, hospitals, first responders, Medical Reserve Corps volunteers, public health personnel, schools, long-term care facilities, and families preparing for disasters. Residents are encouraged to complete the personal profile section, store the brochure in their emergency preparedness kit, and review it with family members and caregivers before an emergency occurs. For additional preparedness resources, emergency alerts, and printable materials including this brochure, visit YavapaiReady.gov. To request printed copies of the Emergency Communication brochure, contact our Public Health Emergency Preparedness Medical Reserve Corps at [email protected].

The Yavapai County Office of Emergency Management oversees the coordination and integration of all activities necessary to build, sustain, and improve the capability to prepare for, respond to, recover from, and mitigate against natural disasters, and man-made disasters in Yavapai County, Arizona.

06/01/2026

Pet Preparedness Month

YAVAPAI COUNTY, Arizona – As Yavapai County residents prepare for an active wildfire and monsoon season, the Yavapai County Office of Emergency Management (YCOEM) is urging households to make sure their emergency plans account for every member of the family, including pets and livestock.

Studies following major disasters consistently show that people frequently delay or refuse evacuation orders when they cannot bring their animals. Pre-planning eliminates that hesitation, ensuring a swift departure that saves both human and animal lives.

"When an emergency hits, every second counts," said Emergency Manager Ashley Ahlquist. "Having a plan in place for your animals—whether they are house pets or large livestock—means you can act instantly when evacuation orders are issued, keeping your family and our first responders safe."

For household pets, YCOEM recommends maintaining a ready-to-go disaster kit that includes:

* Food and water for at least 72 hours, plus a manual can opener.
* Medications and copies of vaccination records kept in a waterproof container.
* A sturdy carrier or leash for each animal, alongside familiar comfort items like toys or blankets to reduce stress.
* Recent photos of you with your pet in case of separation.
* Contact information for your veterinarian and a list of pet-friendly hotels, boarding facilities, or shelters outside your immediate area.

Residents with horses, goats, chickens, or other livestock face additional logistical challenges during an emergency. YCOEM advises large-animal owners to ensure trailers are roadworthy, mark animals with permanent identification (such as microchips, freeze brands, or leg bands), and coordinate transport backup plans with neighbors.

To support the community, Yavapai County highlights critical local resources dedicated to animal safety and sheltering. Animal Disaster Services (ADS) is a dedicated volunteer organization that works in cooperation with emergency management to provide emergency sheltering and care specifically for domestic household pets during evacuations. For horse owners, Equine Emergency Evacuation (EEE) provides a vital resource to coordinate emergency transport when wildfire or disaster threatens. Additionally, Large Animal Shelter & Emergency Readiness (LASER) is a specialized community organization providing safe, temporary sheltering and care specifically for barn animals when families are displaced.

The fastest way to receive critical evacuation orders and life-saving notifications is through the Emergency Alert System. YCOEM urges all residents to take action today by registering for the county’s emergency notification system at Smart911.com. This system allows officials to send direct, life-saving instructions via text, phone call, and email when an emergency happens.

In addition to alerts, residents should know their evacuation zone before an emergency hits. During a large-scale emergency, authorities evacuate by specific geographic areas called Evacuation Zones rather than clearing entire cities at once. Knowing your zone ahead of time prevents confusion and saves precious minutes when every second counts. You can easily find your specific zone by visiting protect.genasys.com or by downloading the Genasys Protect app today to look up your address, view active evacuation zone maps, and view important information such as roadblocks and shelter locations.

For more information on pet preparedness, livestock resources, and emergency notifications, please visit yavapaiready.gov.

This service helps 9-1-1 protect your family by providing more information to first responders. You should sign up too, it is free!

06/01/2026

Prescott National Forest Hosts Mingus Mountain Trail Event for National Trails Day

PRESCOTT, Ariz. (June 1, 2026) — In celebration of National Trails Day, the Prescott National Forest is inviting volunteers to join staff for a trail maintenance event on Mingus Mountain from 8 a.m. to noon Monday, June 8.
The volunteer crew will help maintain a recently constructed trail connecting the 106 Trailhead, located next to the Mingus Picnic Day Use Site, to the 105 Trailhead. Participants should arrive on time and come prepared with long sleeves, long pants, eye protection and sturdy work boots. The forest will provide leather gloves, tools and hard hats.

Advance registration is required. Volunteers must RSVP to receive directions and the meeting location. To sign up, contact Eric Christian at [email protected].

About the Forest Service: The Forest Service has, for more than 100 years, brought people and communities together to answer the call of conservation. Grounded in world-class science and technology — and rooted in communities — the Forest Service connects people to nature and to each other. The Forest Service cares for shared natural resources in ways that promote lasting economic, ecological, and social vitality. The agency manages 193 million acres of public land, provides assistance to state and private landowners, and maintains the largest wildland fire and forestry research organizations in the world. The Forest Service also has either a direct or indirect role in stewardship of about 900 million forested acres within the U.S., of which over 130 million acres are urban forests where most Americans live.

06/01/2026

Prescott National Forest Lifts Bald Eagle Closures at Lynx Lake and Verde River

PRESCOTT, Ariz. (May 29, 2026) — Prescott National Forest wildlife officials have lifted closure orders on bald eagle nesting areas along the Verde River (Ladders) south of Camp Verde and on the east side of Lynx Lake.

The Ladders closure area covered a 2‑mile stretch of the Verde River and adjacent National Forest lands from the “Verde Falls” area downstream to below Sycamore Canyon. Forest Road 9709R, from its junction with Forest Road 574, is now open to public use.

The Lynx Lake closure area included John’s Tank Trail No. 94 on the east side of the lake. All closure signs and barricades have been removed.

Both areas had been closed since December to protect nesting bald eagles. Bald eagles have used the Lynx Lake and Ladders sites for the past 18 years and have successfully nested in eight of those years.

Nest monitoring conducted through the Arizona Game and Fish Department’s Nestwatch program confirmed that nesting was unsuccessful this year at both sites. Wildlife officials report that the eagle pairs are expected to maintain their breeding territories and may attempt nesting again during the 2027 breeding season.

The closure orders and the Bald Eagle Nestwatch Program are among several management tools used by state and federal agencies to help ensure bald eagles remain a thriving part of Arizona’s wildlife heritage. The Forest Service thanks residents and visitors across Arizona for their cooperation and support during the closure period. Managing recreation around nesting areas helps protect bald eagles for future generations.

To learn more about bald eagle management in Arizona, visit the Southwestern Bald Eagle Management Committee or the Arizona Game and Fish Department. For questions, contact Francisco Anaya, Forest Biologist, at 928-830‑8695.

About the Forest Service: The Forest Service has brought people and communities together to answer the call of conservation for more than 100 years. Grounded in world-class science and technology — and rooted in communities — the Forest Service connects people to nature and recreation opportunities. The agency manages 193 million acres of public land, supports the nation’s forest industry and energy needs, and operates the largest and most respected wildland fire and forestry research organizations in the world. By providing assistance to state and private landowners and working with tribes and other partners, the Forest Service also helps steward an additional 900 million forested acres within the U.S.