ENVIRONMENT AND NATURAL RESOURCES
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Thursday, July 3, 2008
FOR MORE INFORMATION: Brad Schultz (605) 773-3151

DENR Announces Air Quality Alert for Western South Dakota

 PIERRE, S.D. – The South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) issued an air quality alert this morning for areas of western South Dakota where smoke from wild fires in Canada has settled. The smoke is causing low visibility and increased fine particulate matter (PM2.5) pollution to levels that are of concern to public health.

The current pollution levels are greater than the National Ambient Air Quality Standard. Elderly citizens, young children, and individuals with respiratory problems are the most susceptible. All people should avoid excessive physical exertion and minimize outdoor activities during periods of low visibility caused by the wild fire smoke. People are also encouraged to keep indoor air clean by closing windows and doors.

The South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources maintains air quality data on the department’s website for three locations in western South Dakota – Badlands National Park, Wind Cave National Park, and in Rapid City. Hourly PM2.5 values greater than 35 microgram per cubic meter (ug/m3) are a concern to public health. Individuals may track the PM2.5 concentrations by visiting DENR’s website at http://www.state.sd.us/denr/DES/AirQuality/aarealtime.htm.

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