If you’re in the habit of feeding wild animals, Arizona Game and Fish officials want you stop doing that. Providing food in urban areas can increase the risk of animals getting hit by vehicles and can cause dangerous situations for people.  Game and Fish spokesman Zen Mocarski explains he has concerns about the hot summer weather conditions. Earlier this month, wildlife managers darted and moved a black bear from the Dewey-Humboldt area.  Mocarski says while the bear wasn’t looking for food, the message remains the same, don’t feed wildlife. Mocarski is asking people to remove food sources and free standing water and to only put trash bins out on the morning of pickup. 

You can find out more about possible changes to Prescott Valley’s water and sewer rates during a Town Council discussion tonight. A rate study has developed financial projections for the Town’s water and sewer systems for the current fiscal year and the next 4 years.  The report doesn’t contain any specific recommendations as to rates and fees, but following discussion tonight, there may be some changes that will be included in an updated report to be presented to Council next week.  Water rates are in place for usage that is 8 thousand gallons or less a month, between 9 and 20 thousand gallons and over 20 thousand gallons.  Sewer rates are 4 dollars and 48 cents per 1 thousand gallons.  The meeting starts at 5:30 in the Library Auditorium on Civic Circle.

You can prevent heat related illnesses during the hot summer months by following a few simple steps.  Yavapai County Community Health Services spokesman David McAtee says the most important thing is to drink plenty of water when you’re outdoors. You should also seek shade and take rest breaks if you work outside. McAtee describes what you should do if you see someone who’s dehydrated. If you have a swimming pool, you’re asked to watch your kids around it.  McAtee says there have already been pool related deaths this year in the Phoenix area.   

If you’re cleaning up around your property, you have an opportunity to get rid of your yard trimmings for free. The free slash drop-off program that started in March has been extended at Yavapai County Transfer Stations in Black Canyon City, Camp Verde, Congress, Mayer, Seligman and Skull Valley until July 20th.  According to County officials, keeping fuels managed is necessary to help avoid uncontrolled fires.   Items that will be accepted include brush, branches, grass and leaves and yard trimmings.  All items must be removed from plastic bags.  Items that won’t be accepted include lumber, stumps, roots, cactus, metal and garbage.  Drop-off is taking place during normal transfer station hours.  For more information, contact the County Public Works Department at 771-3183.