Needs Assessment for Commercial Horticulture and Small Acreage in North Central Arizona

Abstract

Understanding the needs of stakeholders is crucial for extension and outreach programs, especially in developing new programs. From January to April 2020, a needs assessment was conducted in Yavapai and Coconino Counties for the newly created Commercial Horticulture and Small Acreage (CHSA) program. The information from the needs assessment is important to extension agents, farmers (existing and potential future farmers), researches, policymakers, and private organizations interested in CHSA farming in the region. This needs assessment helped to identify the stakeholders in north central Arizona for the CHSA program and has established the needed connections for fruitful collaboration.