I was surprised to find that Idaho is considered by the American Lung Association to have good quality air. I live in a town situated in the midst of an industrial farming and forest operation. Tilling the fields that have no stubble generates thick particle clouds, and burning the grass crops and field residue restricts our freedom to breathe.
Forest owners also frequently burn massive slash piles rather than chipping them to be used in co-generation plants. On top of that, natural forest fires contribute to the smoky air quality during the fall months.
I would like to see the state set and enforce stricter air quality standards based on those established by World Health Organization that are truly protective of human health. Clean air days are becoming quite precious.
