Outdoor Air Quality

Learn how to check current outdoor air quality in our area.  Find out the most common pollutants in our area and how they can affect health.  Learn ways to improve our air quality.

La Crosse County Air Quality

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) measures air quality.  Click on this link to see what the air quality is in La Crosse County:  AirNow Mobile App | AirNow.gov

Sources of Air Pollutants

There are many things in the air we breathe that cause pollution.  Some contaminants of concern for our area are ozone and particulate matter.

Ozone

Ground level ozone is created when exhaust from cars and businesses mixes with other chemicals in the air.  Breathing it can cause health problems.  This mostly occurs during sunny and warm conditions, like in summer.

Particulate Matter

Particulate matter is tiny pieces of dust, dirt, and other materials in the air we breathe.  Breathing particulate matter can be bad for your heart and lungs.  When there is a lot of particulate matter, it can make the air look dirty, hazy, or brown.

Other Pollutants

Gas and diesel vehicles produce air pollutants like benzene, formaldehyde, acetaldehyde and 1,3-butadiene.  Wood burning stoves and fireplaces contribute to indoor and outdoor air pollution.  They can affect your health and your neighbor's health.  Burning wood improperly can reduce air quality in our community.  See the following link for more information:  Outdoor Wood Boilers (Water Stoves) | Wisconsin Department of Health Services

Outdoor Air Quality and Your Health

Breathing in ozone or particulate matter can cause throat irritation, shortness of breath, coughing, wheezing, chest pain, asthma attacks, and worsening of other health conditions.  Air pollutants can also play a role in causing asthma, other respiratory illnesses, and cardiovascular disease.  See the following link for more information:  Outdoor wood boilers | | Wisconsin DNR

You Can Help Improve Our Air Quality

Whenever possible walk, bike, skate, bus, or carpool instead of driving.  Buy fuel-efficient vehicles.  Save energy at home and work.  Buy renewable energy from your utility and use other clean energy alternatives when available.  See more that you can do at the following link:  Home | Focus on Energy