Attorney General Mayes' Biosolids Investigation Helps Lead to Cancellation of AgTech Leases on State Trust Land

PHOENIX — Attorney General Kris Mayes today announced that her office's investigation into biosolids operations in Yuma County has helped lead to the cancellation of AgTech LLC's leases on Arizona State Trust Land, an action announced today by the Governor's Office and the State Land Department.

“For too long, the people of Yuma were told to live with the flies, the smell, and the uncertainty about what was going into their soil and water. No Arizonan should have to put up with such conditions," said Attorney General Mayes. “I want to thank Governor Hobbs and the State Land Department for acting, and I want to thank the residents of Yuma who made clear this was not something they would accept any longer. My office will continue to investigate these issues to ensure the problems facing Yuma residents are fully addressed."

The Attorney General opened the investigation after receiving complaints from Yuma-area residents, growers, and business owners about fly infestations, odors, and potential contamination tied to the land application of treated sewage sludge on state-leased land. In July, more than 250 residents attended a town hall hosted by the Attorney General at the Yuma Civic Center, where she committed to bringing the community answers and solutions to these problems.