Clean Air Status and Trends Network (CASTNET)

The Red Lake DNR is now working with the Clean Air Status and Trends Network (CASTNET) running and maintaining a small footprint filter pack site.  We had a rough start with weather, wildlife and bad luck, but things are going well now and we are currently measuring particulates (SO₄, NO₃ and NH₄), gases (HNO₃ and SO₂) and the base cations.  

Asthma Trigger: Ozone & Particle Pollution

Triggers: Ozone and particle pollution can cause asthma attacks and can make people more sensitive to asthma triggers such as pet dander, pollen, dust mites, and mold.

Where Found: With sunlight and hot weather, ozone forms where VOCs and NOx are present, often where there is a lot of motor vehicle exhaust or industrial emissions.  Particle pollution can be found near such places as roadways and dusty industries, forest fires and where there is motor vehicle exhaust.

What Can You Do? Watch for the Air Quality Index (AQI) during your local weather report. When AQI reports unhealthy levels, limit outdoor activities – AQI forecasts can be found at http://www.airnow.gov/.

Image from http://planetsave.com/2011/05/09/cities-with-worst-air-pollution-top-10-list/