Seasonal Air Quality Advisory Issued for Ozone, Wildfire Smoke

Dual Advisory Will Be in Effect from April 1 to Sept. 30

Clark County’s Division of Air Quality (DAQ) issued a season-long advisory for ground-level ozone pollution and wildfire smoke today that will be in effect from Monday, April 1 through Monday, Sept. 30. Air quality forecasters say the increased chance of wildfire smoke drifting into Southern Nevada can influence ozone formation as well as increase particulate matter pollution.

Last year, DAQ recorded 18 days when ground-level ozone exceeded the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS); an increase from 14 exceedance days in 2022.

“Because of our summer weather, topography, homegrown pollutants and proximity to Southern California—from where ozone-producing pollutants and wildfire smoke can transport in our direction—we will likely have days this summer when ozone concentrations in the Valley exceed the EPA’s standard,” said DAQ Senior Meteorologist Paul Fransioli.

Ozone is a colorless, odorless gas that exists naturally in the Earth’s stratosphere. At ground level, ozone is a key ingredient of urban smog that can build up during the day in the hottest months of the year due to strong sunlight, hot temperatures, gasoline and chemical vapors, pollutants from automobiles, wildfires and regional transport. Exposure to ozone can irritate your respiratory system and cause coughing, a sore throat, chest pain and shortness of breath even in healthy people, according to the EPA.

Smoke is made of small particulates and other pollutants that can aggravate respiratory diseases and contribute to ground-level ozone formation. Exposure to smoke can induce coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath even in healthy people.

According to the EPA, people who may be most sensitive to elevated levels of particulates and ozone include individuals with respiratory problems, cardiac disease, young children and senior citizens. Consult your physician if you have a medical condition that makes you sensitive to air quality conditions.

SMOKE AND OZONE TIPS

• Stay indoors when you smell or see smoke.

• Limit outdoor activity and exertion when ozone levels are elevated – exercise makes you breathe heavier and increases the amount of ozone and particulates you may inhale.
• Keep windows and doors closed. Run your air conditioner inside your house and car. Air conditioning filters out smoke and particulates.
• Change your indoor air filters if they are dirty.

• Schedule activities for the morning or evening when ozone levels are usually lower.
• Substitute a less intense activity – walk instead of jog, for example.
• Always consult your doctor first for medical advice.

HELPFUL TIPS TO REDUCE OZONE

Because exhaust from cars, trucks and other vehicles are major contributors to ozone:

• Reduce driving – combine errands into one trip.
• Don’t idle your car engine unnecessarily.
• Use mass transit or carpool.
• Fill up your gas tank after sunset. Try not to spill gasoline when filling up. Don’t top off your tank.
• Keep your car well maintained.
• Consider landscaping that uses less water and gas-powered equipment to maintain.
• Turn off lights and electronics when not in use. Less fuel burned at power plants means cleaner air.

STAY UP TO DATE WITH LOCAL AIR QUALITY INFORMATION

• Daily Air Quality Forecast Website: ClarkCountyNV.gov.
• Social Media: Facebook: facebook.com/SustainClarkCounty; Twitter/X: @SustainClarkCty and Instagram: @sustainclarkcounty.
• Daily Text/Email Alerts: enviroflash.org.
• AIRNow Mobile App: https://www.airnow.gov/airnow-mobile-app/.

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Air Quality Dust Advisory Issued for Saturday

Clark County’s Division of Air Quality (DAQ) has issued a dust advisory for Saturday, March 23 to advise residents and local construction sites of the possibility of elevated levels of blowing dust due to the forecast of high winds in our area.

Division of Air Quality forecasters are predicting southerly winds beginning mid-Saturday morning and lasting into the evening. Windspeeds are expected to be up to 45 miles per hour and may cause blowing dust throughout the region.

Airborne dust is a form of inhalable air pollution called particulate matter or PM, which aggravates respiratory diseases. Under windy conditions people with heart or lung disease, older adults, and children may feel better staying indoors as much as possible because they could be at greater risk from particulates, especially when they are physically active, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Consult your physician if you have a medical condition that makes you sensitive to air pollution.

The EPA’s Air Quality Index translates air quality data into colors to help people understand when they may experience health effects from air pollution. An AQI of 101 or more is considered a level that may be unhealthy for sensitive groups of people.

Tips to limit exposure to dust include:

• Limit outdoor exertion on windy days when dust is in the air. Exercise, for example, makes you breathe heavier and increases the amount of particulates you are likely to inhale.
• Keep windows and doors
• Run your air conditioner inside your house and car to filter out
• Consider changing your indoor air filters if they are dirty.
• To keep dust down, drive slowly on unpaved roads.
• Don’t take short cuts across vacant lots.
• Ride off-road vehicles in approved areas outside the urban Las Vegas Valley.
• Call Environment and Sustainability’s dust complaint hotline at 702-385-DUST (3878) to report excessive amounts of blowing dust from construction sites, vacant lots or facilities.

STAY UP TO DATE WITH AIR QUALITY INFORMATION

The Department of Environment and Sustainability monitors air pollution through a network of monitoring sites throughout the Las Vegas Valley. Data is collected from these sites and reported at our monitoring website: DESAQMonitoring.ClarkCountyNV.gov. People can stay informed through a couple channels:

• Social Media: Read air quality updates in your Facebook news feed or tweets. On Facebook: facebook.com/SustainClarkCounty; Twitter: @SustainClarkCty and Instagram: @sustainclarkcounty.
• EnviroFlash: Receive daily text or email messages with the latest air quality information. Learn more at enviroflash.org. The Dept. of Environment and Sustainability also issues advisories and alerts for ozone and other pollutants such as dust, smoke and other particulate matter.
• AIRNow: Check air quality forecasts, current conditions and the Air Quality Index (AQI) for Clark County at AIRNow’s website.

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Air Quality Dust Advisory Issued for Wednesday Night and Thursday Morning

Clark County’s Division of Air Quality (DAQ) has issued a dust advisory for Wednesday, March 13 and Thursday, March 14, to advise residents and local construction sites of the possibility of elevated levels of blowing dust due to the forecast of high winds in our area. The advisory goes into effect tonight and is set to expire Thursday morning.

Airborne dust is a form of inhalable air pollution called particulate matter or PM, which aggravates respiratory diseases. Under windy conditions people with heart or lung disease, older adults, and children may feel better staying indoors as much as possible because they could be at greater risk from particulates, especially when they are physically active, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Consult your physician if you have a medical condition that makes you sensitive to air pollution.

The EPA’s Air Quality Index translates air quality data into colors to help people understand when they may experience health effects from air pollution. An AQI of 101 or more is considered a level that may be unhealthy for sensitive groups of people.

Tips to limit exposure to dust include:

• Limit outdoor exertion on windy days when dust is in the air. Exercise, for example, makes you breathe heavier and increases the amount of particulates you are likely to inhale.
• Keep windows and doors
• Run your air conditioner inside your house and car to filter out
• Consider changing your indoor air filters if they are dirty.
• To keep dust down, drive slowly on unpaved roads.
• Don’t take short cuts across vacant lots.
• Ride off-road vehicles in approved areas outside the urban Las Vegas Valley.
• Call Environment and Sustainability’s dust complaint hotline at 702-385-DUST (3878) to report excessive amounts of blowing dust from construction sites, vacant lots or facilities.

STAY UP TO DATE WITH AIR QUALITY INFORMATION

The Department of Environment and Sustainability monitors air pollution through a network of monitoring sites throughout the Las Vegas Valley. Data is collected from these sites and reported at our monitoring website: DESAQMonitoring.ClarkCountyNV.gov. People can stay informed through a couple channels:

• Social Media: Read air quality updates in your Facebook news feed or tweets. On Facebook: facebook.com/SustainClarkCounty; Twitter: @SustainClarkCty and Instagram: @sustainclarkcounty.
• EnviroFlash: Receive daily text or email messages with the latest air quality information. Learn more at enviroflash.org. The Dept. of Environment and Sustainability also issues advisories and alerts for ozone and other pollutants such as dust, smoke and other particulate matter.
• AIRNow: Check air quality forecasts, current conditions and the Air Quality Index (AQI) for Clark County at AIRNow’s website.

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Air Quality Dust Advisory Issued for Friday and Saturday

Clark County’s Division of Air Quality (DAQ) has issued a dust advisory for Friday, March 1 and Saturday, March 2, to advise residents and local construction sites of the possibility of elevated levels of blowing dust due to the forecast of high winds in our area.

“We’re expecting winds coming from the southwest at speed of 30 – 35 miles per hour, with gusts reaching 40 – 45 miles per hour on Friday,” said DAQ Senior Meteorologist Paul Fransioli. “For Saturday, we’re forecasting wind speeds of 40 – 45 miles per hour and gusts reaching 50 – 55 miles per hour.”

Airborne dust is a form of inhalable air pollution called particulate matter or PM, which aggravates respiratory diseases. Under windy conditions people with heart or lung disease, older adults, and children may feel better staying indoors as much as possible because they could be at greater risk from particulates, especially when they are physically active, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Consult your physician if you have a medical condition that makes you sensitive to air pollution.

The EPA’s Air Quality Index translates air quality data into colors to help people understand when they may experience health effects from air pollution. An AQI of 101 or more is considered a level that may be unhealthy for sensitive groups of people.

Tips to limit exposure to dust include:

• Limit outdoor exertion on windy days when dust is in the air. Exercise, for example, makes you breathe heavier and increases the amount of particulates you are likely to inhale.
• Keep windows and doors
• Run your air conditioner inside your house and car to filter out
• Consider changing your indoor air filters if they are dirty.
• To keep dust down, drive slowly on unpaved roads.
• Don’t take short cuts across vacant lots.
• Ride off-road vehicles in approved areas outside the urban Las Vegas Valley.
• Call Environment and Sustainability’s dust complaint hotline at 702-385-DUST (3878) to report excessive amounts of blowing dust from construction sites, vacant lots or facilities.

STAY UP TO DATE WITH AIR QUALITY INFORMATION

The Department of Environment and Sustainability monitors air pollution through a network of monitoring sites throughout the Las Vegas Valley. Data is collected from these sites and reported at our monitoring website: DESAQMonitoring.ClarkCountyNV.gov. People can stay informed through a couple channels:

• Social Media: Read air quality updates in your Facebook news feed or tweets. On Facebook: facebook.com/SustainClarkCounty; Twitter: @SustainClarkCty and Instagram: @sustainclarkcounty.
• EnviroFlash: Receive daily text or email messages with the latest air quality information. Learn more at enviroflash.org. The Dept. of Environment and Sustainability also issues advisories and alerts for ozone and other pollutants such as dust, smoke and other particulate matter.
• AIRNow: Check air quality forecasts, current conditions and the Air Quality Index (AQI) for Clark County at AIRNow’s website.

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Air Quality Smoke Advisory Issued for Sunday Due to Super Bowl Fireworks

Clark County’s Division of Air Quality (DAQ) is issuing an air quality smoke advisory for fireworks for Sunday, Feb. 11, due to a planned discharge of about 2,000 fireworks just ahead of Super Bowl LVIII’s 3:30 p.m. PT kickoff. The fireworks create smoke and particulate pollution that could be harmful if inhaled. Forecasters with DAQ advise people in the vicinity of Allegiant Stadium—especially those with breathing sensitivities—to take precaution. Current weather forecasts indicate light winds from the north on Sunday afternoon.

“We certainly aren’t trying to be a buzzkill on the Super Bowl festivities. We’re excited for the Big Game as much as everyone else,” said senior air quality specialist and forecaster Paul Fransioli. “Just as we do on the Fourth of July and New Year’s Eve, we’re issuing this advisory out of an abundance of caution for anyone downwind of Allegiant Stadium.”

Smoke is made of small dust particles and other pollutants that can aggravate respiratory diseases and contribute to ground-level ozone formation. Particulates are typically created by vehicle exhaust and wood smoke.

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, people who may be most sensitive to elevated levels of particulates and ozone include individuals with respiratory problems, cardiac disease, young children or senior citizens. Consult your physician if you have a medical condition that makes you sensitive to air quality conditions.

For more information, go to DESAQMonitoring.ClarkCountyNV.gov.

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Southern Nevada Unites to Tackle Climate Change

Southern Nevada Local Governments and Agencies Sign Interlocal Agreement to Combat Local Impacts of Climate Change

Six Southern Nevada government agencies and two regional organizations finalized an interlocal agreement to combine efforts in addressing the local impacts of climate change— such as extreme heat, drought and clean energy—and reduce carbon emissions. More than a ceremonial pledge, the signees to the agreement—under the banner of the All-In Regional Climate Coalition—are already collaborating on long-term solutions.

“Flash flooding, reduction of water resources, extreme heat and other climate-related impacts are already being felt by people who live, work and visit Southern Nevada,” said Clark County Commission Chairman Tick Segerblom. “This interlocal agreement ensures all our communities and organizations are working together to develop strategies that remain consistent with the overall goals while addressing the specific needs of each community.”

The Regional Climate Coalition is using the All-In Community Sustainability and Climate Action Plan for its principle roadmap. Developed by the Clark County Department of Environment and Sustainability, the All-In Plan was adopted by the Clark County Commission in April 2023 after an extensive public engagement process.

“With ongoing drought conditions affecting Lake Mead, water usage and water conservation remains top-of-mind for residents and businesses in Southern Nevada,” said John Entsminger, the Southern Nevada Water Authority’s general manager. “As we continue taking steps to address climate change, this collaborative effort across the region will help enhance and expand our community’s resiliency and long-term sustainability.”The interlocal agreement was signed by the cities of Boulder City, Henderson, Las Vegas, Mesquite and North Las Vegas. They are joined by Clark County, the Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada (RTCSNV) and the Southern Nevada Water Authority. Under the terms of the agreement, participation is voluntary.

“The city of Las Vegas has long been a leader when it comes to meeting the needs of today, while ensuring a sustainable future,” said, Las Vegas Mayor Carolyn G. Goodman. “In 2014 the city of Las Vegas was recognized with the U.S. Conference of Mayors Climate Protection Award and sustainability continues to be a key priority today. The All-In Regional Climate Collaborative allows us and our partners to foster one another’s sustainability goals for the good of Southern Nevada.”

“Like other cities in Southern Nevada, Henderson has a diverse mix of residents and businesses and needs that are unique to our community,” said Henderson Mayor Michelle Romero. “Creating a healthy, livable and sustainable community is a strategic priority for the City of Henderson and we seek opportunities like this to partner on major initiatives that will advance our region, as a whole. The Regional Climate Collaborative ensures we’re working toward the same goals while customizing the All-In Community Plan to our specific needs.” 

“As the regional planning agency, the Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada is at the forefront of initiatives identifying areas of the valley most impacted by extreme heat,” said M.J. Maynard, chief executive officer of RTCSNV. “Recognizing that Clark County is one of the fastest-warming regions in the country, we remain dedicated to collaborating with our partners to devise long-term solutions to alleviate the effects of heat while concurrently advancing cleaner transportation options for our community.”

“Though our sustainability and climate resiliency needs may differ from our friends to our south, the City of Mesquite is definitely all-in on addressing the impacts of drought and extreme heat,” said Allan S. Litman, Mesquite’s mayor. “Collaboration will enhance our efforts as well as the efforts of our partners.”

“As one of the top five fastest growing cities in the nation, and a leader in industrial development, the City of North Las Vegas has a commitment to our companies and our residents to manage that growth in a sustainable way,” said North Las Vegas Mayor Pamela Goynes-Brown. “We embrace the opportunity to work across municipal boundaries to address climate-related impacts that affect all of Southern Nevada.”

“Boulder City has a unique history and identity serving our community with consumer-owned electricity and water as the town that built Hoover Dam,” said Taylour Tedder, city manager for Boulder City. “We recognize the impacts of increased temperatures and sustained drought on our residents and are committed to working side-by-side with our partners to develop common sense solutions that will benefit our community as well as all of Clark County.”

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Located in Clark County, Nevada, the Department of Environment and Sustainability (DES) is the region’s air pollution control agency. DES also administers the Desert Conservation Program and leads the All-In Clark County initiative to address climate impacts in Southern Nevada. Whether it’s protecting the air we share, protecting species like the desert tortoise or making home and vehicle electrification easier for residents, our team is united by our shared passion to create a cleaner, healthier, more sustainable Southern Nevada.

Clark County is a dynamic and innovative organization dedicated to providing top-quality service with integrity, respect and accountability. With jurisdiction over the world-famous Las Vegas Strip and covering an area the size of New Jersey, Clark is the nation’s 11th-largest county and provides extensive regional services to 2.4 million citizens and 43 million visitors a year. Included are the nation’s 7th-busiest airport, air quality compliance, social services and the state’s largest public hospital, University Medical Center. The County also provides municipal services that are traditionally provided by cities to 1 million residents in the unincorporated area. Those include fire protection, roads and other public works, parks and recreation, and planning and development.

Air Quality Smoke Advisory Issued Due to New Year’s Eve Fireworks

The Clark County Department of Environment and Sustainability (DES) has issued an advisory for Sunday, Dec. 31 and Monday, Jan. 1 for smoke and high levels of particulates (PM_2.5 and PM₁₀) that could occur from fireworks on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day.

The scheduled fireworks on the Strip and anticipated neighborhood fireworks throughout Clark County may create smoke and particulate pollution. Smoke is made of small dust particles and other pollutants that can aggravate respiratory diseases and contribute to ground-level ozone formation. Particulates are typically created by vehicle exhaust and wood smoke.

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, people who may be most sensitive to elevated levels of particulates and ozone include individuals with respiratory problems, cardiac disease, young children or senior citizens. Consult your physician if you have a medical condition that makes you sensitive to air quality conditions.

HELPFUL TIPS TO LIMIT PERSONAL EXPOSURE TO SMOKE

• Limit outdoor exertion on days with high levels of fine particles in the air. Exercise makes you breathe heavier and increases the amount of particulates you are likely to inhale.
• Keep windows and doors
• Consider changing your indoor air filters if they are dirty.

STAY UP TO DATE WITH AIR QUALITY INFORMATION

The Department of Environment and Sustainability monitors air pollution through a network of monitoring sites throughout the Las Vegas Valley. Data is collected from these sites and reported at our monitoring website: DESAQMonitoring.ClarkCountyNV.gov. People can stay informed through a couple channels:

• Social Media: Read air quality updates in your Facebook news feed or tweets. On Facebook: facebook.com/SustainClarkCounty, Twitter: @SustainClarkCty and Instagram: @sustainclarkcounty.
• EnviroFlash: Receive daily text or email messages with the latest air quality information. Learn more at enviroflash.org. The Dept. of Environment and Sustainability also issues advisories and alerts for ozone and other pollutants such as dust, smoke and other particulate matter.
• AIRNow: Check air quality forecasts, current conditions and the Air Quality Index (AQI) for Clark County at AIRNow’s website.

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Recycle Your Old Electronics at the Clark County Electronics Recycling Drive

The All-In Clark County Initiative Kicks Off Nov. 15, America Recycles Day

Why are you hanging onto that box full of old, broken electronics? Now’s your chance to unload those old cell phones, DVD players, printers and other electronic devices cluttering your home without throwing them in the trash. Recycle them at the Clark County Electronic Recycling Drive! The four-day drive kicks off on America Recycles Day, Wednesday, Nov. 15 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at evTerra Recycling.

What: Electronic Recycling Drive
When: Wednesday, Nov. 15 to Saturday, Nov. 18
Where: evTerra Recycling, 1085 Alber Center Dr., Suite 110, Henderson

Accepted Items

Blenders, cable boxes, cables/cords/wires (including AC adapters), cell phones, coffee makers (no glass), computers (desktop and laptop), computer keyboards and mice, copiers, DVD players, e-readers, fax machines, game consoles, holiday lights, LCD monitors, LCD TVs, microwaves (no glass), modems/routers, tablets and toasters.

Unaccepted Items

Batteries, CRT TV/monitors, freon-containing appliances, hazardous waste and lightbulbs.

America Recycles Day, a Keep America Beautiful national initiative, is the only nationally recognized day dedicated to promoting and celebrating recycling in the United States. This recycling drive is presented by the All-In Clark County initiative, in partnership with evTerra Recycling.

For more information: https://publicinput.com/recycle.

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Clark County is Going All-In on National Drive Electric Week!

Clark County is officially joining the 13^th annual National Drive Electric Week festivities—scheduled Friday, Sept. 22 to Sunday, Oct. 1—by hosting an electric vehicle ride-and-drive event of its own on Saturday, Sept. 30, giving the public an opportunity to take an EV out for a spin and learn more about electrification.

County Commissioner Justin Jones will present a proclamation commemorating the week at the County Commission’s Tuesday, Sept. 19 regular meeting in the Commission Chambers at the Clark County Government Center.

“Electrification is a critical component of lowering greenhouse gas emissions in Southern Nevada,” said Jones. “National Drive Electric Week provides a perfect opportunity for us to reinforce our need for a robust electric vehicle infrastructure and options in both public transportation and the consumer market.”

The Department of Environment and Sustainability is hosting the ride-and-drive event at the Buildings Department facility from noon to 4 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 30. The free, public event will include EV manufacturers and dealers, recreational EVs, food vendors, presentations and more in a fun, interactive environment.

This event is being presented in partnership with the Nevada Electric Vehicle Association as part of the County’s All-In Clark County initiative. Event organizers recognize many people are still curious about EVs.

“Change can sometimes be a scary thing,” said Marci Henson, director, Department of Environment and Sustainability. “We’re hosting this ride-and-drive event for EV enthusiasts and skeptics alike. We’re hosting it for people who are on the fence, considering their first EV purchase but have questions. Come out, kick some tires, test-drive a car and see firsthand the benefits of electric vehicles.”

Click here for more information about Clark County’s National Drive Electric Week Event. For a complete list of National Drive Electric Week events, visit: DriveElectricWeek.org

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Air Quality Dust Advisory Issued for Friday

The Clark County’s Division of Air Quality has issued a dust advisory for Friday, Sept. 1, to advise residents and local construction sites of the possibility of elevated levels of blowing dust due to the forecast of high winds in our area.

Airborne dust is a form of inhalable air pollution called particulate matter or PM, which aggravates respiratory diseases. Under windy conditions people with heart or lung disease, older adults, and children may feel better staying indoors as much as possible because they could be at greater risk from particulates, especially when they are physically active, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Consult your physician if you have a medical condition that makes you sensitive to air pollution.

The EPA’s Air Quality Index translates air quality data into colors to help people understand when they may experience health effects from air pollution. An AQI of 101 or more is considered a level that may be unhealthy for sensitive groups of people. Tips to limit exposure to dust include:

• Limit outdoor exertion on windy days when dust is in the air. Exercise, for example, makes you breathe heavier and increases the amount of particulates you are likely to inhale.
• Keep windows and doors
• Run your air conditioner inside your house and car to filter out
• Consider changing your indoor air filters if they are dirty.
• To keep dust down, drive slowly on unpaved roads.
• Don’t take short cuts across vacant lots.
• Ride off-road vehicles in approved areas outside the urban Las Vegas Valley.
• Call Environment and Sustainability’s dust complaint hotline at 702-385-DUST (3878) to report excessive amounts of blowing dust from construction sites, vacant lots or facilities.

STAY UP TO DATE WITH AIR QUALITY INFORMATION

The Department of Environment and Sustainability monitors air pollution through a network of monitoring sites throughout the Las Vegas Valley. Data is collected from these sites and reported at our monitoring website: DESAQMonitoring.ClarkCountyNV.gov. People can stay informed through a couple channels:

• Social Media: Read air quality updates in your Facebook news feed or tweets. On Facebook: facebook.com/SustainClarkCounty; Twitter: @SustainClarkCty and Instagram: @sustainclarkcounty.
• EnviroFlash: Receive daily text or email messages with the latest air quality information. Learn more at enviroflash.org. The Dept. of Environment and Sustainability also issues advisories and alerts for ozone and other pollutants such as dust, smoke and other particulate matter.
• AIRNow: Check air quality forecasts, current conditions and the Air Quality Index (AQI) for Clark County at AIRNow’s website.

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Division of Air Quality Collected $660,000+ in Air Quality Penalties in FY 2022/23

Funds Transferred to CCSD for Education, Air Quality Programs

At its regular Board Meeting today, the Clark County Commission approved the transfer of $660,089.73 in penalty funds collected by the County’s Division of Air Quality (DAQ) to the Clark County School District (CCSD). The funds will be applied toward air quality-related education programs and efforts to improve air quality at CCSD schools and facilities. The penalty monies were collected by DAQ’s Compliance and Enforcement section from July 1, 2022 to June 30, 2023—Clark County’s fiscal year—from businesses and individuals for air quality regulations violations. DAQ recommends penalty amounts to an independent Air Pollution Control Hearing Officer, who assesses all final penalties. Hearing officers are appointed by the Clark County Commission

In FY 2021/22, DAQ recommended 127 notices of violations (NOVs), with a total of $1,174,433.53 adjudicated penalties. This year, a total of 139 NOVs were recommended with $686,227.29 adjudicated penalties. While several factors may contribute to fluctuating penalty amounts, DAQ Compliance and Enforcement Manager Shibi Paul credits compliance officers, who are active in multiple roles with the department.

“In addition to conducting regular dust mitigation classes for construction workers, our Compliance staff conducted thousands of inspections and responded to nearly 1,000 calls to our air quality hotline,” said Paul. “They serve our community in enforcing the EPA’s health-based standards for clean air.”

For FY 2023, DAQ’s compliance officers:

• Conducted 8,483 construction site inspections
• Conducted 775 stationary source compliance evaluations
• Responded to 959 hotline calls

Since 2006, DAQ has transferred more than $11 million of adjudicated penalty funds to CCSD, per Nevada Revised Statute 445B.500(3). In accordance with the statute, DAQ may only withhold $17,500 of the annual collected funds for administrative costs. A complete list of FY 2022/23 adjudicated penalties. An historic breakdown of annual adjudicated penalties from FY 2006 – 2023.

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Air Quality Smoke Advisory Issued for 4^th of July

Local fireworks throughout Clark County may contribute to elevated levels of particulate matter pollution.

The Clark County Department of Environment and Sustainability (DES) is issuing an advisory from Saturday, July 1 through Wednesday, July 5 for elevated levels of smoke due to local fireworks throughout the annual Independence Day holiday weekend. DES Division of Air Quality officials say smoke is made of small dust particles and other pollutants that can aggravate respiratory diseases and contribute to ground-level ozone formation.

These pollutants can also aggravate respiratory diseases such as bronchitis and asthma or heart disease. Consult your physician if you have a medical condition that makes you sensitive to air quality conditions. Under moderate or worse air quality conditions, it may be best for children, older adults and people with respiratory and heart disease to stay indoors.

HELPFUL TIPS TO LIMIT PERSONAL EXPOSURE TO SMOKE

• Limit outdoor exertion on days with high levels of fine particles in the air. Exercise makes you breathe heavier and increases the amount of particulates you are likely to inhale.
• Keep windows and doors
• Consider changing your indoor air filters if they are dirty.

STAY UP TO DATE WITH AIR QUALITY INFORMATION

The Department of Environment and Sustainability monitors air pollution through a network of monitoring sites throughout the Las Vegas Valley. Data is collected from these sites and reported at our monitoring website: DESAQMonitoring.ClarkCountyNV.gov. People can stay informed through a couple channels:

• Social Media: Read air quality updates in your Facebook news feed or tweets. On Facebook: facebook.com/SustainClarkCounty, Twitter: @SustainClarkCty and Instagram: @sustainclarkcounty.
• EnviroFlash: Receive daily text or email messages with the latest air quality information. Learn more at enviroflash.org. The Dept. of Environment and Sustainability also issues advisories and alerts for ozone and other pollutants such as dust, smoke and other particulate matter.
• AIRNow: Check air quality forecasts, current conditions and the Air Quality Index (AQI) for Clark County at AIRNow’s website.

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Applications Being Accepted for Air Pollution Control Hearing Board

Applications are being accepted now to fill four positions on Clark County’s Air Pollution Control (APC) Hearing Board: one licensed attorney admitted to practice law in Nevada and three lay members. These three-year positions begin Oct. 17.

The APC Hearing Board is a seven-member board appointed by the Clark County Board of Commissioners. It is responsible for hearing enforcement and permit appeals, assessing civil penalties, and other Department of Environment and Sustainability, Division of Air Quality (DAQ) matters that come before the board for resolution.

Applicants must be a resident of Nevada and shall not be an employee of the State of Nevada or any other political subdivision of the state. These are voluntary appointments with no compensation. The APC Hearing Board generally meets four to six times per year. Applications will only be accepted on the form provided, which may be obtained at the County’s website at this link or by calling 702-455-0354. All applications must be received no later than Aug. 3 at 4:30 p.m. PDT and may be submitted electronically to aqenforcement@clarkcountynv.gov or by mailing the application to: Department of Environment and Sustainability, Division of Air Quality, Attn: Sherrie Rogge, 4701 W. Russell Rd., Suite 200, Las Vegas, NV 89118.

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Landscape ReCharge Offering Vouchers to Commercial Landscapers to “Clear the Air”

$325 vouchers good toward battery-electric lawn maintenance equipment

Commercial landscapers are paid to trim the trees, clear the weeds and remove leaves and debris from properties across Clark County. They keep things looking neat and beautiful. Now, Clark County’s Department of Environment and Sustainability(DES) wants to help them clear the air and reduce carbon emissions. DES is launching Landscape ReCharge, an incentive program that offers cash vouchers to local, commercial landscapers to exchange gas-powered lawn equipment for zero-emission, battery-electric, commercial-grade equipment.

“One commercial-grade, gas-powered leaf blower operating for an hour emits more pollutants than a 2017 Toyota Camry driving from Las Vegas to Los Angeles and back. Twice,” said DES Deputy Director Jodi Bechtel. “Through Landscape ReCharge, we are offering commercial landscapers—who work year-round in Clark County—an opportunity to help us protect the air we share, and become more carbon neutral, by switching to zero-emission, electric alternatives.”

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, lawn maintenance equipment such as leaf blowers and lawn mowers create nearly 15 million tons of carbon dioxide (CO2) pollution each year, which is a major contributor to air pollution and greenhouse gases.

DES earmarked $325,000 of its budget to fund Landscape ReCharge and is partnering with SA Recycling and The Home Depot to facilitate all exchanges. Bechtel said the department sees it as an investment in improving Clark County’s air quality.

“Equipment conversion may be cost prohibitive for business owners who might otherwise want to consider switching to electric,” said Bechtel. “Through Landscape ReCharge, we incentivize making that switch by picking up some of the cost because it will help protect the health of their employees, their clients, and the community…and this equipment is less noisy!”

How to Apply for a Voucher

Commercial landscape companies located in Clark County holding an official business license on file with the County are eligible to apply for Landscape ReCharge. Each $325 voucher may be applied to one piece of exchanged equipment. Qualified applicants may request to exchange up to five pieces of lawn equipment. Other conditions may apply. Deadline to apply is Thursday, June 22.

Go to PublicInput.com/LandscapeReCharge for the application and additional information or send an email message to mailto:LandscapeReCharge@ClarkCountyNV.gov.

Landscape ReCharge ofrece vales a paisajistas comerciales para “limpiar el aire”

Cupones de $325 válidos para equipos de mantenimiento de césped con batería eléctrica

Se les paga a los paisajistas comerciales para podar los árboles, eliminar las malas hierbas y retirar las hojas y los escombros de las propiedades en todo el Condado Clark. Mantienen las cosas luciendo limpias y hermosas. Ahora, el Departamento de Medio Ambiente y Sostenibilidad (DES  por sus siglas en inglés) del Condado Clark quiere ayudarlos a limpiar el aire y reducir las emisiones de carbono. DES está lanzando Landscape ReCharge, un programa de incentivos que ofrece vales en efectivo a paisajistas y jardineros locales y comerciales para intercambiar los equipos de jardinería de gas por equipos de cero emisiones, eléctricos con batería y de calidad comercial.

“Un soplador de hojas de gas de calidad comercial que opera durante una hora emite más contaminantes que un Toyota Camry de 2017 en un viaje de ida y vuelta de Las Vegas a Los Ángeles. Dos veces”, dijo Jodi Bechtel, directora adjunta del DES. “A través del programa Landscape ReCharge, estamos ofreciéndoles a los paisajistas y jardineros comerciales, que trabajan todo el año en el Condado Clark, una oportunidad para ayudarnos a proteger el aire que compartimos y convertirnos en más neutrales en carbono, al hacer el cambio a alternativas eléctricas de cero emisiones”.

Según la Agencia de Protección Ambiental de EE.UU., los equipos de mantenimiento de jardines, como los sopladores de hojas y las cortadoras de césped, generan casi 15 millones de toneladas de contaminación por dióxido de carbono (CO2) cada año, lo que es un importante contribuyente a la contaminación del aire y los gases de efecto invernadero.

DES destinó $325,000 de su presupuesto para financiar la iniciativa Landscape ReCharge y se está asociando con SA Recycling y The Home Depot para facilitar todos los intercambios. Bechtel dijo que el departamento lo ve como una inversión para mejorar la calidad del aire del Condado Clark.

“La conversión de equipos puede ser un costo prohibitivo para los propietarios de negocios que de otra manera podrían considerar hacer el cambio a equipos eléctricos”, dijo Bechtel. “A través de Landscape ReCharge, incentivamos hacer ese cambio al pagar parte del costo porque ayudará a proteger la salud de sus empleados, sus clientes y la comunidad… ¡y este equipo es menos ruidoso!”

Cómo solicitar un vale

Las compañías de paisajes comerciales ubicadas en el Condado Clark que tienen una licencia comercial oficial en los archivos del Condado son elegibles para solicitar la ayuda de la iniciativa. Cada vale de $325 dólares se puede aplicar a una pieza de equipo intercambiado. Los solicitantes calificados pueden solicitar el cambio de hasta cinco piezas de equipo de jardinería. Pueden aplicarse otras condiciones. La fecha límite para aplicar es el jueves 22 de junio.

Vaya a PublicInput.com/LandscapeReCharge para obtener la solicitud e información adicional o envíe un mensaje de correo electrónico a mailto:LandscapeReCharge@ClarkCountyNV.gov.

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Rock Down to Electric Avenue! on April 20 to Test Electric Vehicles, Lawn Equipment and More

This Southern Nevada Clean Cities Coalition initiative is part of Clark County’s “All-In April” Events

Test drive electric vehicles, scooters and ebikes, learn more about battery-electric lawn equipment and enjoy lunch prepared and served from environmentally friendly food vendors at Electric Avenue!

What: Electric Avenue! A Southern Nevada Clean Cities Coalition Initiative
When: Thursday, April 20, noon to 4 p.m.
Where: Clark County Building and Fire Prevention parking lot, 4701 W. Russell Rd.

Presented by Clark County’s Department of Environment and Sustainability as part of its Clean Cities Initiative, Electric Avenue! is also highlighted as part of the “All-In April,” showcasing Clark County’s sustainability and climate action plan, All-In Clark County.

“Our surveys have shown people are interested in considering electric vehicles when they’re shopping for a new car,” said Jodi Bechtel, deputy director of the Department of Environment and Sustainability. “Electric Avenue! is a great opportunity to get more information about EVs, battery-electric lawn equipment and how electrification is already here, accessible and affordable.”

Vendors scheduled at Electric Avenue! include: Mean Green Motors, ABM Chargers, Arcimoto, Atomic Scooter, Findlay Audi, Findlay Kia, Findlay VW, Halo Car, Pedal & Pour, Rec World, Trek Bikes and Xos Trucks. Erbs Vegan Kitchen will be serving lunch throughout the event.

Additional information may be found on the DES website.

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Clark County Goes All-In on Community Sustainability and Climate Action Plan

The Clark County Commission today adopted the All-In Clark County Community Sustainability and Climate Action Plan to address climate change impacts in Southern Nevada. Increases in extreme heat days, drought conditions, wildfires and flash flooding are impacting the health, economy and safety of Clark County. 

The All-In Clark County Plan charts a strategic path for the region’s municipalities, business sector, utilities, community organizations and individuals to collaborate on reducing greenhouse gas emissions and building a more sustainable, climate resilient Clark County for present and future generations.

The All-In Clark County Plan focuses on six key areas to reach sustainability and climate resilience goals:

1. Clean and reliable energy.
2. Connected and equitable mobility.
3. Diverse and circular economy.
4. Resilient and healthy community.
5. Smart buildings and development.
6. Sustainable water systems.

The passage of the All-In Clark County Plan culminates a process that began in October 2019 when Clark County joined the County Climate Coalition, which pledges to uphold the greenhouse gas emission reduction goals of the Paris Agreement. Along with joining the County Climate Coalition, the County Commission charged the Department of Environment and Sustainability with developing a comprehensive plan to combat the impacts of climate change in Southern Nevada. It is the second phase of All-In Clark County.

The first phase, the All-In County Operations Plan, was adopted in February 2021 by the County Commission to address Clark County’s internal operations to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and implement more sustainable practices across its 38 departments.

County leaders stress the importance of the All-In Clark County Plan representing the community’s core values while improving the region’s climate resilience and sustainability.

“From the very beginning, it was crucial that All-In Clark County be a collaborative effort with local government, business and industry leaders, community organizations and concerned individuals each having a seat at the table,” said Clark County Commission Chairman Jim Gibson. “We’re committed to working together in an equitable and transparent manner to reduce our greenhouse gas emissions while balancing continued economic growth with our environmental and social resilience goals.”

“The All-In Clark County Plan is the region’s first comprehensive roadmap to address climate change and create a more sustainable future for our community,” said Clark County Commission Vice Chairman Justin Jones. “With the adoption of the All-In Clark County Plan, we’re taking important steps to address climate change and protect our community’s economic, environmental and social resilience.”

“The plan is about more than just clean air and water.  It covers affordable housing, green jobs, reliable energy and quality of life,” said Commissioner Marilyn Kirkpatrick. “These are all the key pieces we need in place to secure the well-being and prosperity of Clark County.”

“It was critical to Clark County that the plan truly reflects the needs and priorities of the region,” said Marci Henson, director of the Department of Environment and Sustainability. “We want to thank everyone who participated in each step of the planning process and contributed to the plan.”

Learn more about the plan, its stakeholders and how people can get involved at AllinClarkCounty.com.

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Division of Air Quality Issues Seasonal Wildfire Smoke, Ozone Advisory

Dual Advisory Will be in Effect from April 1 to Sept. 30

Clark County’s Division of Air Quality (DAQ) issued a season-long advisory for ground-level ozone pollution and wildfire smoke today that will be in effect from Saturday, April 1 through Saturday, Sept. 30. Air quality forecasters say the increased chance of wildfire smoke drifting into Southern Nevada can influence ozone formation as well as increase particulate matter pollution.

“In five of our past six summers, wildfire smoke has had a negative impact on Clark County’s air quality,” said Paul Fransioli, DAQ senior air quality forecaster. “Though the smoke influence was significantly lower last year, it still contributed to some of our ozone exceedance days in 2022.”

DAQ registered 14 days in 2022 when ground-level ozone exceeded the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS); a 50 percent decline from 2021’s total of 28 exceedance days.

Ozone is a colorless, odorless gas that exists naturally in the Earth’s stratosphere. At ground level, ozone is a key ingredient of urban smog that can build up during the day in the hottest months of the year due to strong sunlight, hot temperatures, gasoline and chemical vapors, pollutants from automobiles, wildfires and regional transport. Exposure to ozone can irritate your respiratory system and cause coughing, a sore throat, chest pain and shortness of breath even in healthy people, according to the EPA.

Smoke is made of small particulates and other pollutants that can aggravate respiratory diseases and contribute to ground-level ozone formation. Exposure to smoke can induce coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath even in healthy people.

According to the EPA, people who may be most sensitive to elevated levels of particulates and ozone include individuals with respiratory problems, cardiac disease, young children and senior citizens. Consult your physician if you have a medical condition that makes you sensitive to air quality conditions.

SMOKE AND OZONE TIPS

• Stay indoors when you smell or see smoke.

• Limit outdoor activity and exertion when ozone levels are elevated – exercise makes you breathe heavier and increases the amount of ozone and particulates you may inhale.
• Keep windows and doors closed. Run your air conditioner inside your house and car. Air conditioning filters out smoke and particulates.
• Change your indoor air filters if they are dirty.
• Schedule activities for the morning or evening when ozone levels are usually lower.
• Substitute a less intense activity – walk instead of jog, for example.
• Always consult your doctor first for medical advice.

HELPFUL TIPS TO REDUCE OZONE

Because exhaust from cars, trucks and other vehicles are major contributors to ozone:

• Reduce driving – combine errands into one trip.
• Don’t idle your car engine unnecessarily.
• Use mass transit or carpool.
• Fill up your gas tank after sunset. Try not to spill gasoline when filling up and don’t top off your tank.
• Keep your car well maintained.
• Consider landscaping that uses less water and gas-powered equipment to maintain.
• Turn off lights and electronics when not in use. Less fuel burned at power plants means cleaner air.

STAY UP TO DATE WITH AIR QUALITY INFORMATION

The Division of Air Quality monitors air pollution through a network of monitoring stations throughout the Las Vegas Valley. Data is collected from these sites and reported at our monitoring website: DESAQMonitoring.ClarkCountyNV.gov. People can also stay informed through additional channels:

• Social Media: Facebook: facebook.com/SustainClarkCounty, Twitter: @SustainClarkCty and Instagram: @sustainclarkcounty.
• org: Daily text and email messages with the air quality information, advisories and alerts.
• AIRNow: Download the AIRNow app directly to your phone at AIRNow’s website.

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Air Quality Dust Advisory Issued for Tuesday Afternoon and Early Wednesday

The Clark County Department of Environment and Sustainability has issued a dust advisory for Tuesday afternoon, Feb. 21 and early Wednesday, Feb. 22, to advise residents and local construction sites of the possibility of elevated levels of blowing dust due to the forecast of high winds in our area. Division of Air Quality forecasters said the advisory will be in effect from about 3 p.m. Tuesday, through the overnight hours into early Wednesday morning.

Airborne dust is a form of inhalable air pollution called particulate matter or PM, which aggravates respiratory diseases. Under windy conditions people with heart or lung disease, older adults, and children may feel better staying indoors as much as possible because they could be at greater risk from particulates, especially when they are physically active, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Consult your physician if you have a medical condition that makes you sensitive to air pollution.

The EPA’s Air Quality Index translates air quality data into colors to help people understand when they may experience health effects from air pollution. An AQI of 101 or more is considered a level that may be unhealthy for sensitive groups of people. Tips to limit exposure to dust include:

• Limit outdoor exertion on windy days when dust is in the air. Exercise, for example, makes you breathe heavier and increases the amount of particulates you are likely to inhale.
• Keep windows and doors
• Run your air conditioner inside your house and car to filter out
• Consider changing your indoor air filters if they are dirty.
• To keep dust down, drive slowly on unpaved roads.
• Don’t take short cuts across vacant lots.
• Ride off-road vehicles in approved areas outside the urban Las Vegas Valley.
• Call Environment and Sustainability’s dust complaint hotline at 702-385-DUST (3878) to report excessive amounts of blowing dust from construction sites, vacant lots or facilities.

STAY UP TO DATE WITH AIR QUALITY INFORMATION

The Department of Environment and Sustainability monitors air pollution through a network of monitoring sites throughout the Las Vegas Valley. Data is collected from these sites and reported at our monitoring website: DESAQMonitoring.ClarkCountyNV.gov. People can stay informed through a couple channels:

• Social Media: Read air quality updates in your Facebook news feed or tweets. On Facebook: facebook.com/SustainClarkCounty; Twitter: @SustainClarkCty and Instagram: @sustainclarkcounty.
• EnviroFlash: Receive daily text or email messages with the latest air quality information. Learn more at enviroflash.org. The Dept. of Environment and Sustainability also issues advisories and alerts for ozone and other pollutants such as dust, smoke and other particulate matter.
• AIRNow: Check air quality forecasts, current conditions and the Air Quality Index (AQI) for Clark County at AIRNow’s website.

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Air Quality Dust Advisory Issued for Tuesday, Feb. 14

The Clark County Department of Environment and Sustainability has issued a dust advisory for Tuesday, Feb. 14, to advise residents and local construction sites of the possibility of elevated levels of blowing dust due to the forecast of high winds in our area.

High winds in the Mojave Desert are expected around 3 a.m. Tuesday in western San Bernardino and Nye counties, which could transport windblown dust to Clark County—including the Las Vegas valley.

Airborne dust is a form of inhalable air pollution called particulate matter or PM, which aggravates respiratory diseases. Under windy conditions people with heart or lung disease, older adults, and children may feel better staying indoors as much as possible because they could be at greater risk from particulates, especially when they are physically active, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Consult your physician if you have a medical condition that makes you sensitive to air pollution.

The EPA’s Air Quality Index translates air quality data into colors to help people understand when they may experience health effects from air pollution. An AQI of 101 or more is considered a level that may be unhealthy for sensitive groups of people. Tips to limit exposure to dust include:

• Limit outdoor exertion on windy days when dust is in the air. Exercise, for example, makes you breathe heavier and increases the amount of particulates you are likely to inhale.
• Keep windows and doors
• Run your air conditioner inside your house and car to filter out
• Consider changing your indoor air filters if they are dirty.
• To keep dust down, drive slowly on unpaved roads.
• Don’t take short cuts across vacant lots.
• Ride off-road vehicles in approved areas outside the urban Las Vegas Valley.
• Call Environment and Sustainability’s dust complaint hotline at 702-385-DUST (3878) to report excessive amounts of blowing dust from construction sites, vacant lots or facilities.

STAY UP TO DATE WITH AIR QUALITY INFORMATION

The Department of Environment and Sustainability monitors air pollution through a network of monitoring sites throughout the Las Vegas Valley. Data is collected from these sites and reported at our monitoring website: DESAQMonitoring.ClarkCountyNV.gov. People can stay informed through a couple channels:

• Social Media: Read air quality updates in your Facebook news feed or tweets. On Facebook: facebook.com/SustainClarkCounty; Twitter: @SustainClarkCty and Instagram: @sustainclarkcounty.
• EnviroFlash: Receive daily text or email messages with the latest air quality information. Learn more at enviroflash.org. The Dept. of Environment and Sustainability also issues advisories and alerts for ozone and other pollutants such as dust, smoke and other particulate matter.
• AIRNow: Check air quality forecasts, current conditions and the Air Quality Index (AQI) for Clark County at AIRNow’s website.

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Public Comment Period Opens for County’s Plan to Combat Climate Change

The final draft of the All-In Clark County Community Sustainability & Climate Action Plan, Clark County’s roadmap to a more sustainable and climate resilient region, is available for public review and comment. Public comments on the All-In Clark County Community Sustainability & Climate Action Plan will be accepted from Monday, Jan. 3 to Friday, Jan. 27.

“We worked closely with multiple stakeholders in Southern Nevada to develop this plan. It was important to us that this plan represents the interests of businesses, community organizations, local residents and visitors alike in addressing the impacts of climate change that are already happening,” said Department of Environment and Sustainability Assistant Director, Jodi Bechtel. “We need everyone to go All-In with us and we encourage everyone to read the plan and provide their thoughts.”

Spearheaded by Clark County’s Department of Environment and Sustainability as part of the All-In Clark County initiative, the All-In Clark County Community Sustainability & Climate Action Plan proposes ambitious goals and actions for reducing the region’s carbon emissions and addressing the impacts of climate change already being experienced—extreme heat, drought, wildfires and flooding.

All-In Clark County

Launched in 2020 through the County’s Office of Sustainability, All-In Clark County addresses the impacts of climate change in the region. The initiative is comprised of a County Operations Plan and the Community Sustainability & Climate Action Plan. The Clark County Commission adopted the County Operations Plan in 2021. A Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Inventory and the Climate Vulnerability Assessment, both completed in 2022, provide vital information to combat the impacts of climate change in Clark County, and are the foundational technical tools of the Community Sustainability & Climate Action Plan.

How to Comment on the Plan

Go to https://PublicInput.com/GOALLIN to view the All-In Clark County Community Sustainability & Climate Action Plan and provide comments. The website will be available for viewing and comments until 5 p.m. PST, Friday, Jan. 27.

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Air Quality Smoke Advisory Issued Due to New Year’s Eve Fireworks

The Clark County Department of Environment and Sustainability (DES) has issued an advisory for Saturday, Dec. 31 and Sunday, Jan. 1 for smoke and high levels of particulates (PM_2.5 and PM₁₀) that could occur from fireworks on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day.

The scheduled fireworks on the Strip and anticipated neighborhood fireworks throughout Clark County may create smoke and particle pollution. Smoke is made of small dust particles and other pollutants that can aggravate respiratory diseases and contribute to ground-level ozone formation. Particulates are typically created by vehicle exhaust and wood smoke.

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, people who may be most sensitive to elevated levels of particulates and ozone include individuals with respiratory problems, cardiac disease, young children or senior citizens. Consult your physician if you have a medical condition that makes you sensitive to air quality conditions.

HELPFUL TIPS TO LIMIT PERSONAL EXPOSURE TO SMOKE

• Limit outdoor exertion on days with high levels of fine particles in the air. Exercise makes you breathe heavier and increases the amount of particulates you are likely to inhale.
• Keep windows and doors
• Consider changing your indoor air filters if they are dirty.

STAY UP TO DATE WITH AIR QUALITY INFORMATION

The Department of Environment and Sustainability monitors air pollution through a network of monitoring sites throughout the Las Vegas Valley. Data is collected from these sites and reported at our monitoring website: DESAQMonitoring.ClarkCountyNV.gov. People can stay informed through a couple channels:

• Social Media: Read air quality updates in your Facebook news feed or tweets. On Facebook: facebook.com/SustainClarkCounty, Twitter: @SustainClarkCty and Instagram: @sustainclarkcounty.
• EnviroFlash: Receive daily text or email messages with the latest air quality information. Learn more at enviroflash.org. The Dept. of Environment and Sustainability also issues advisories and alerts for ozone and other pollutants such as dust, smoke and other particulate matter.
• AIRNow: Check air quality forecasts, current conditions and the Air Quality Index (AQI) for Clark County at AIRNow’s website.

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Applications Being Accepted for Air Pollution Control Hearing Board

Applications are being accepted now to fill one position on Clark County’s Air Pollution Control (APC) Hearing Board: a professional engineer licensed in Nevada. This position is for a three-year term.

The APC Hearing Board is a seven-member board appointed by the Clark County Commission. It is responsible for hearing enforcement and permit appeals, assessing civil penalties, and other Department of Environment and Sustainability, Division of Air Quality (DAQ) matters that come before the board for resolution.

Applicants must be a resident of Nevada and shall not be an employee of the State of Nevada or any other political subdivision of the state. This is a voluntary appointment with no compensation. The APC Hearing Board generally meets four to six times per year. Applications will only be accepted on the form provided, which may be obtained at the County’s website at this link or by calling 702-455-0354. Applications may be submitted electronically to aqenforcement@clarkcountynv.gov or by mailing the application to: Department of Environment and Sustainability, Division of Air Quality, Attn: Sherrie Rogge, 4701 W. Russell Rd., Suite 200, Las Vegas, NV 89118. All submitted applications become public record and available for public review. A recommendation for selection will be presented to the Clark County Commission at a future meeting.  This is an open and continuous recruitment and scheduling dates will vary depending on when an application is received and reviewed.

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All-In Clark County Publishes Climate Vulnerability Assessment

More than 50 strategies were recommended through the All-In Clark County initiative to reduce long-term and short-term risks of climate change impacts in Clark County. That’s according to a recent Climate Vulnerability Assessment (CVA) developed and published by Clark County and community stakeholders, spearheaded by the County’s Department of Environment and Sustainability (DES).

Preparing for the impacts of climate change and climate hazards—rising temperatures, drought conditions and extreme precipitation events—led Clark County leadership and community stakeholders to conduct a comprehensive climate vulnerability assessment to inform decisions toward making the region more resilient and sustainable for future generations.

“Heat, drought, wildfire and flooding are putting the region and its resources at tremendous risk, moving forward,” said DES Director Marci Henson. “This assessment is important and necessary in providing us comprehensive picture of all our resources and current planning so we can determine the steps we need to take moving forward.”

Vulnerability Rankings

The Climate Vulnerability Assessment analyzed four planning subject areas—natural systems, infrastructure and facilities and people and community and transportation—against four main climate hazards: extreme heat, drought, wildfire and flooding. Natural systems such as water supply and aquatic/riparian habitats range from somewhat to highly vulnerable, depending on the climate hazards.

“Between 1970 and 2018, Las Vegas became the fastest-warming city in the U.S. with the trend continuing. As extreme heat rises it will continue to put strains on our energy grid,” said Henson. “This assessment outlines long-range strategies to minimize risk of power outages and other infrastructure to ensure community resiliency without risking future resources.”

Priority Strategies

Of the 57 strategies proposed in the Climate Vulnerability Assessment, 25 have been identified as high priority across four critical areas:

• Natural Systems
• Infrastructure and Facilities
• People and Community
• Regional Economy and Transportation

For example, under People and Community, developing utility assistance and weatherization programs for low- and fixed-income individuals as well as improving existing programs is a top priority for mitigating vulnerability.

“Low- and fixed-income residents often lack financial and material resources to prepare for or respond to climate hazards, both at and away from home (e.g., money for a new AC unit, car to access a cooling center),” the report states. “As Clark County develops initiatives that will reduce climate risk and increase resilience, this strategy is an opportunity to provide much needed financial support and technical assistance that will directly improve the living conditions of some of the County’s most socially vulnerable residents.”

Methodology

The Climate Vulnerability Assessment was developed using various data-gathering methods, including surveys, interviews, workshops and a baseline technical report that identified historical and projected future conditions in Clark County. Additionally, a climate vulnerability stakeholder working group was established. This group included subject matter experts representing all regional systems and community assets including regional and municipal governments, community organizations, utilities, transportation companies and many more.

Next Steps

With the Climate Vulnerability Assessment completed, the All-In Clark County initiative is now putting the finishing touches its Community Sustainability and Climate Action Plan, fulfilling a major goal for the initiative which was established two years ago. The community action plan will outline the tasks and steps to activate the Climate Vulnerability Assessment’s strategies and, ultimately, create a more resilient and more sustainable Clark County.

In the meantime, a series of one-page action plans have been developed and broken down into four segments:

• Businesses
• Organizations & Advocates
• Policymakers
• Residents

“Our path to climate resilience will require effort from all parts of our community,” said Henson. “We can’t do it alone, so we are providing roadmaps for everyone across all sectors to invest in our future by taking action now.”

Climate Vulnerability Assessment (with a listing of all the stakeholders) may be found here.

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Applications Being Accepted for Air Pollution Control Hearing Officer

Applications are being accepted for the position of Air Pollution Control (APC) Hearing Officer, contracted by Clark County’s Department of Environment and Sustainability. An APC Hearing Officer serves as an independent contractor whose duties include hearing cases of alleged violations of local air pollution control regulations and other air quality-related issues. Upon determining a violation, the officer may assess civil penalties or impose other remedies. The Hearing Officer’s term of office is for two-years upon appointment by the Board of County Commissioners.

Preference will be given to persons experienced in air pollution control, environmental management, engineering, law, arbitration or dispute resolution. Applicants must be residents of Nevada and shall not be employees of the State of Nevada or any other political subdivision of the state. Compensation is $70 per hour for hearing and preparatory time only. Hearing Officers are required to provide a W-9 form to the Department of Environment and Sustainability prior to commencement of services.

Qualifications include graduation from an accredited four-year college with at least five years of experience in public administration. Applications will only be accepted on the form provided, which may be obtained on the Department of Environment and Sustainability’s Hearing Board, Hearing Officers and Notices webpage.

Completed applications may be submitted electronically to aqenforcement@clarkcountynv.gov or by mailing the application to: Department of Environment and Sustainability, Division of Air Quality, Attn: Sherrie Rogge, 4701 W. Russell Rd., Suite 200, Las Vegas, Nev. 89118. All submitted applications become public record and available for public review. A recommendation for selection will be presented to the Clark County Board of County Commissioners at a future meeting. This is an open and continuous recruitment, scheduling dates will vary depending on when an application is received and reviewed.

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Air Quality Dust Advisory Issued for Saturday

The Clark County Department of Environment and Sustainability has issued a dust advisory for Saturday, Oct. 22, to advise residents and local construction sites of the possibility of elevated levels of blowing dust due to the forecast of high winds in our area.

Airborne dust is a form of inhalable air pollution called particulate matter or PM, which aggravates respiratory diseases. Under windy conditions people with heart or lung disease, older adults, and children may feel better staying indoors as much as possible because they could be at greater risk from particulates, especially when they are physically active, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Consult your physician if you have a medical condition that makes you sensitive to air pollution.

The EPA’s Air Quality Index translates air quality data into colors to help people understand when they may experience health effects from air pollution. An AQI of 101 or more is considered a level that may be unhealthy for sensitive groups of people. Tips to limit exposure to dust include:

• Limit outdoor exertion on windy days when dust is in the air. Exercise, for example, makes you breathe heavier and increases the amount of particulates you are likely to inhale.
• Keep windows and doors
• Run your air conditioner inside your house and car to filter out
• Consider changing your indoor air filters if they are dirty.
• To keep dust down, drive slowly on unpaved roads.
• Don’t take short cuts across vacant lots.
• Ride off-road vehicles in approved areas outside the urban Las Vegas Valley.
• Call Environment and Sustainability’s dust complaint hotline at 702-385-DUST (3878) to report excessive amounts of blowing dust from construction sites, vacant lots or facilities.

STAY UP TO DATE WITH AIR QUALITY INFORMATION

The Department of Environment and Sustainability monitors air pollution through a network of monitoring sites throughout the Las Vegas Valley. Data is collected from these sites and reported at our monitoring website: DESAQMonitoring.ClarkCountyNV.gov. People can stay informed through a couple channels:

• Social Media: Read air quality updates in your Facebook news feed or tweets. On Facebook: facebook.com/SustainClarkCounty, Twitter: @SustainClarkCty and Instagram: @sustainclarkcounty.
• EnviroFlash: Receive daily text or email messages with the latest air quality information. Learn more at enviroflash.org. The Dept. of Environment and Sustainability also issues advisories and alerts for ozone and other pollutants such as dust, smoke and other particulate matter.
• AIRNow: Check air quality forecasts, current conditions and the Air Quality Index (AQI) for Clark County at AIRNow’s website.

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Fewer Air Quality Ozone “Exceedance” Days Recorded in 2022

2022 “Ozone Season” Recap

From April 1 to Sept. 30, the Clark County Division of Air Quality recorded a total of 14 days when ground-level ozone concentrations exceeded the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS). That’s a 50 percent decrease from the 2021 total of 28 exceedance days.

What is an Exceedance?

According to the EPA, an exceedance for ground-level ozone occurs when an 8-hour average ozone concentration is at least 71 parts per billion (ppb) during one day. The EPA lowered the standard from 75 ppb in 2015.

Currently, Clark County is in attainment for five of the six EPA-defined criteria pollutants: carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, particulate matter, sulfur dioxide and lead. The reduction of the ozone limit and ongoing ozone challenges have led the EPA to begin the rulemaking process to reclassify the region as “moderate” nonattainment for the 2015 Ozone standard; a bump up from its previous “marginal” status.

“In recent years, the increase of wildfires throughout the West and Southwest has contributed to our air quality challenges,” said Jodi Bechtel, Assistant Director of Clark County’s Department of Environment and Sustainability, which houses the Division of Air Quality. “Nevertheless, we are studying more closely the local factors that may be influencing ozone formation to help us better develop mitigation plans to bring Clark County back into attainment for ozone.”

Two reasons for fewer exceedances this year include less wildfire smoke and more frequent cloud cover, compared to last year.

“Wildfire smoke still influenced at least half of our ozone exceedances, but it isn’t the only factor in ozone formation” said Air Quality specialist Paul Fransioli. “Changing weather patterns, local pollution and regional and long distance transport of pollutants still contribute heavily to our ozone.”

2022 Ozone Season, by the Numbers

The Division of Air Quality manages a network of 17 monitoring stations, 13 of which monitor for ozone. Eight of this year’s 14 exceedances were recorded at only a single station.

Ozone Has Decreased Since 2003

Ground-level ozone concentrations have steadily decreased since 2003. The lowest annual total occurrences is three, recorded in 2019.

How Does Ozone Form? What is an “Exceedance” Day?

Go to our Ozone 101 webpage for the answers to these questions and more.

Air Quality Data

All data was gathered by the Clark County Department of Environment and Sustainability's Division of Air Quality. Though this release represents the most current data, it is not official until it has been certified by our technical staff. Data is collected from DES ambient air quality monitoring sites and may include data collected by other outside agencies. This data is updated hourly. All times shown are in local standard time unless otherwise indicated.

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Air Quality Dust Alert Issued for Friday

The Clark County Department of Environment and Sustainability has issued a dust alert for Friday, Sept. 9 due to elevated levels of dust from high winds. Officials say unhealthy levels of dust for sensitive groups of people are imminent or occurring in the local area.

Airborne dust is a form of inhalable air pollution called particulate matter or PM, which aggravates respiratory diseases. Under windy conditions people with heart or lung disease, older adults, and children may feel better staying indoors as much as possible because they could be at greater risk from particulates, especially when they are physically active, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Consult your physician if you have a medical condition that makes you sensitive to air pollution.

The EPA’s Air Quality Index translates air quality data into colors to help people understand when they may experience health effects from air pollution. An AQI of 101 or more is considered a level that may be unhealthy for sensitive groups of people. Tips to limit exposure to dust include:

• Limit outdoor exertion on windy days when dust is in the air. Exercise, for example, makes you breathe heavier and increases the amount of particulates you are likely to inhale.
• Keep windows and doors
• Run your air conditioner inside your house and car to filter out
• Consider changing your indoor air filters if they are dirty.
• To keep dust down, drive slowly on unpaved roads.
• Don’t take short cuts across vacant lots.
• Ride off-road vehicles in approved areas outside the urban Las Vegas Valley.
• Call Environment and Sustainability’s dust complaint hotline at 702-385-DUST (3878) to report excessive amounts of blowing dust from construction sites, vacant lots or facilities.

STAY UP TO DATE WITH AIR QUALITY INFORMATION

The Department of Environment and Sustainability monitors air pollution through a network of monitoring sites throughout the Las Vegas Valley. Data is collected from these sites and reported at our monitoring website: DESAQMonitoring.ClarkCountyNV.gov. People can stay informed through a couple channels:

• Social Media: Read air quality updates in your Facebook news feed or tweets. On Facebook: facebook.com/SustainClarkCounty, Twitter: @SustainClarkCty and Instagram: @sustainclarkcounty.
• EnviroFlash: Receive daily text or email messages with the latest air quality information. Learn more at enviroflash.org. The Dept. of Environment and Sustainability also issues advisories and alerts for ozone and other pollutants such as dust, smoke and other particulate matter.
• AIRNow: Check air quality forecasts, current conditions and the Air Quality Index (AQI) for Clark County at AIRNow’s website.

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Fewer Ozone Exceedance Days in 2022 Than 2021…So Far

2022 Clark County Ozone Season “Halftime Update”

Compared to a year ago, ground-level ozone in Clark County was lower from April 1 to June 30, compared to the same span in previous years, according to the Department of Environment and Sustainability (DES). The department’s Division of Air Quality recorded three days when ozone levels exceeded the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s 8-hour ozone standard.

Why the decrease in exceedance days? Air Quality specialists point to a few possible reasons.

“We didn’t see the same wildfire smoke influence in the first half of ozone season this year as we did in 2021,” said Paul Fransioli, DES air quality specialist. “That, combined with favorable weather patterns and ozone didn’t have as much of an opportunity to form in the region.”

Ozone Season

DES designates April 1 to Sept. 30 each year as its “ozone season,” when concentrations of ground-level ozone are higher than during the remaining months of the year. Ground-level ozone is toxic to breathe. According the EPA’s health-based standards, an exceedance occurs when ozone particles are greater than 70 parts per billion over a rolling eight hours in a day.

In year-over-year comparisons, the overall average air quality index (AQI) remained fairly stable in April and May and decreased by nearly 8 points in June.

Ozone Season – Second Half

As of today, DES has recorded two additional ozone exceedance days. Fransioli points to a usual suspect as a culprit.

“Our two exceedance days on July 15 and 17 were influenced by wildfire smoke,” Fransioli added.

Even though wildfire smoke has influenced about half the ozone exceedance days recorded over the past five years, DES officials recognize ground-level ozone is caused by homegrown sources.

“We have 1.6 million vehicles in Clark County, plus more than 300 days of sunshine. Add to that extreme summertime heat, pollutants transporting from other regions and the mountains that surround us and Vegas becomes a perfect oven to cook ozone,” said DES Assistant Director Jodi Bechtel. “Ozone continues to be our No. 1 air quality challenge and we are currently evaluating additional efforts that may help reduce ozone within the permitted business community.”

DES also reminds vehicle drivers they can take steps to reduce ozone:

• Don’t idle unnecessarily and don’t sit in a drive-thru. Shut off your engine and go inside instead.
• Keep your car well maintained, including proper air pressure in tires.
• Map out errands and trips to reduce trips and ensure the most efficient routes.
• Take public transportation.
• Fill your gas tank after sunset.
• Use electric landscaping equipment instead of gas-powered.

How Does Ozone Form?

Ground-level ozone is formed when volatile organic compounds (VOCs) mix with oxides of nitrogen (NOx) in ultraviolet rays and heat. VOCs are emitted gases from fumes from fuel, paints, chemicals, personal care products and even some plants and vegetation.

Examples of NOx emissions are vehicle exhaust, gases from industry and wildfire smoke. Stagnant weather conditions and the topographic structure of the Las Vegas Valley help trap these pollutants, causing levels to rise. Exposure to ozone can irritate your respiratory system and cause coughing, a sore throat, chest pain and shortness of breath even in healthy people, according to the EPA.

Air Quality Index

The Air Quality Index (AQI) is a measurement tool to gauge air pollution. It runs from 0 – 500 and is used to measure six pollutants: carbon monoxide, lead, nitrogen dioxide, ozone, particulate matter and sulfur dioxide. The higher the AQI value, the greater level of air pollution and greater the health concern. 

Air Quality Data

All data gathered by the Clark County Department of Environment and Sustainability's Division of Air Quality. It has not been officially verified and is subject to change. Though the charts in this release represent the most current data, it is not official until it has been certified by our technical staff. Data is collected from DES ambient monitoring sites and may include data collected by other outside agencies. This data is updated hourly. All times shown are in local standard time unless otherwise indicated.

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Applications Being Accepted for Two Air Pollution Control Hearing Officers

Applications are being accepted for two Air Pollution Control (APC) hearing officer positions, contracted by Clark County’s Department of Environment and Sustainability. APC hearing officers serve as independent contractors whose duties include hearing cases of alleged violations of local air pollution control regulations and other air quality-related issues. Upon determining a violation, the officer may assess civil penalties or impose other remedies. The hearing officers’ two-year terms will begin Tuesday, Nov. 1.

Preference will be given to persons experienced in air pollution control, environmental management, engineering, law, arbitration or dispute resolution. Applicants must be residents of Nevada and shall not be employees of the State of Nevada or any other political subdivision of the state. Compensation is $70 per hour for hearing and preparatory time only. Hearing officers are required to provide a W-9 form to the Department of Environment and Sustainability prior to commencement of services.

Qualifications include a graduate of an accredited four-year college with at least five years of experience in public administration. Applications will only be accepted on the form provided, which may be obtained on the Department of Environment and Sustainability’s Hearing Board, Hearing Officers and Notices webpage.

Completed applications may be submitted electronically to aqenforcement@clarkcountynv.gov or by mailing the application to: Department of Environment and Sustainability, Division of Air Quality, Attn: Sherrie Rogge, 4701 W. Russell Rd., Suite 200, Las Vegas, Nev. 89118. In order to receive consideration, applications must be received by 4 p.m. PDT Monday, Aug. 8. All submitted applications become public record and available for public review. A recommendation for selection will be presented to the Clark County Board of County Commissioners at a future meeting.

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Air Quality Smoke Advisory Issued for 4^th of July Weekend

Local fireworks throughout Clark County may contribute to elevated levels of particulate matter pollution.

The Clark County Department of Environment and Sustainability (DES) is issuing an advisory from Saturday, July 2 through Tuesday, July 5 for elevated levels of smoke due to local fireworks throughout the annual Independence Day holiday weekend. DES Division of Air Quality officials say smoke is made of small dust particles and other pollutants that can aggravate respiratory diseases and contribute to ground-level ozone formation.

These pollutants can also aggravate respiratory diseases such as bronchitis and asthma or heart disease. Consult your physician if you have a medical condition that makes you sensitive to air quality conditions. Under moderate or worse air quality conditions, it may be best for children, older adults and people with respiratory and heart disease to stay indoors.

HELPFUL TIPS TO LIMIT PERSONAL EXPOSURE TO SMOKE

• Limit outdoor exertion on days with high levels of fine particles in the air. Exercise makes you breathe heavier and increases the amount of particulates you are likely to inhale.
• Keep windows and doors
• Consider changing your indoor air filters if they are dirty.

STAY UP TO DATE WITH AIR QUALITY INFORMATION

The Department of Environment and Sustainability monitors air pollution through a network of monitoring sites throughout the Las Vegas Valley. Data is collected from these sites and reported at our monitoring website: DESAQMonitoring.ClarkCountyNV.gov. People can stay informed through a couple channels:

• Social Media: Read air quality updates in your Facebook news feed or tweets. On Facebook: facebook.com/SustainClarkCounty, Twitter: @SustainClarkCty and Instagram: @sustainclarkcounty.
• EnviroFlash: Receive daily text or email messages with the latest air quality information. Learn more at enviroflash.org. The Dept. of Environment and Sustainability also issues advisories and alerts for ozone and other pollutants such as dust, smoke and other particulate matter.
• AIRNow: Check air quality forecasts, current conditions and the Air Quality Index (AQI) for Clark County at AIRNow’s website.

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Air Quality Dust Advisory Issued for Saturday and Sunday

The Clark County Department of Environment and Sustainability has issued a dust advisory for Saturday, June 4 and Sunday, June 5, to advise residents of possible elevated levels of dust that may be transported into the Vegas Valley from the Mojave Desert due to high southwesterly winds starting Saturday early evening into Sunday morning. Officials say unhealthy levels of dust for people with breathing sensitivities are imminent or occurring in the local area.

Airborne dust is a form of inhalable air pollution called particulate matter or PM, which aggravates respiratory diseases. Under windy conditions people with heart or lung disease, older adults, and children may feel better staying indoors as much as possible because they could be at greater risk from particulates, especially when they are physically active, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Consult your physician if you have a medical condition that makes you sensitive to air pollution.

The EPA’s Air Quality Index translates air quality data into colors to help people understand when they may experience health effects from air pollution. An AQI of 101 or more is considered a level that may be unhealthy for sensitive groups of people. Tips to limit exposure to dust include:

• Limit outdoor exertion on windy days when dust is in the air. Exercise, for example, makes you breathe heavier and increases the amount of particulates you are likely to inhale.
• Keep windows and doors
• Run your air conditioner inside your house and car to filter out
• Consider changing your indoor air filters if they are dirty.
• To keep dust down, drive slowly on unpaved roads.
• Don’t take short cuts across vacant lots.
• Ride off-road vehicles in approved areas outside the urban Las Vegas Valley.
• Call Environment and Sustainability’s dust complaint hotline at 702-385-DUST (3878) to report excessive amounts of blowing dust from construction sites, vacant lots or facilities.

STAY UP TO DATE WITH AIR QUALITY INFORMATION

The Department of Environment and Sustainability monitors air pollution through a network of monitoring sites throughout the Las Vegas Valley. Data is collected from these sites and reported at our monitoring website: DESAQMonitoring.ClarkCountyNV.gov. People can stay informed through a couple channels:

• Social Media: Read air quality updates in your Facebook news feed or tweets. On Facebook: facebook.com/SustainClarkCounty, Twitter: @SustainClarkCty and Instagram: @sustainclarkcounty.
• EnviroFlash: Receive daily text or email messages with the latest air quality information. Learn more at enviroflash.org. The Dept. of Environment and Sustainability also issues advisories and alerts for ozone and other pollutants such as dust, smoke and other particulate matter.
• AIRNow: Check air quality forecasts, current conditions and the Air Quality Index (AQI) for Clark County at AIRNow’s website.

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Air Quality Dust Advisory Issued for Sunday

The Clark County Department of Environment and Sustainability has issued a dust advisory for Sunday, May 29, to advise residents and local construction sites of the possibility of elevated levels of blowing dust due to the forecast of high winds in our area. Dust transported overnight into the region from the Mojave Desert.

Airborne dust is a form of inhalable air pollution called particulate matter or PM, which aggravates respiratory diseases. Under windy conditions people with heart or lung disease, older adults, and children may feel better staying indoors as much as possible because they could be at greater risk from particulates, especially when they are physically active, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Consult your physician if you have a medical condition that makes you sensitive to air pollution.

The EPA’s Air Quality Index translates air quality data into colors to help people understand when they may experience health effects from air pollution. An AQI of 101 or more is considered a level that may be unhealthy for sensitive groups of people. Tips to limit exposure to dust include:

• Limit outdoor exertion on windy days when dust is in the air. Exercise, for example, makes you breathe heavier and increases the amount of particulates you are likely to inhale.
• Keep windows and doors
• Run your air conditioner inside your house and car to filter out
• Consider changing your indoor air filters if they are dirty.
• To keep dust down, drive slowly on unpaved roads.
• Don’t take short cuts across vacant lots.
• Ride off-road vehicles in approved areas outside the urban Las Vegas Valley.
• Call Environment and Sustainability’s dust complaint hotline at 702-385-DUST (3878) to report excessive amounts of blowing dust from construction sites, vacant lots or facilities.

STAY UP TO DATE WITH AIR QUALITY INFORMATION

The Department of Environment and Sustainability monitors air pollution through a network of monitoring sites throughout the Las Vegas Valley. Data is collected from these sites and reported at our monitoring website: DESAQMonitoring.ClarkCountyNV.gov. People can stay informed through a couple channels:

• Social Media: Read air quality updates in your Facebook news feed or tweets. On Facebook: facebook.com/SustainClarkCounty, Twitter: @SustainClarkCty and Instagram: @sustainclarkcounty.
• EnviroFlash: Receive daily text or email messages with the latest air quality information. Learn more at enviroflash.org. The Dept. of Environment and Sustainability also issues advisories and alerts for ozone and other pollutants such as dust, smoke and other particulate matter.
• AIRNow: Check air quality forecasts, current conditions and the Air Quality Index (AQI) for Clark County at AIRNow’s website.

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Air Quality Permitting, Compliance Documents to Require Hard-Copy Submission Only

Effective Monday, June 6, the Department of Environment and Sustainability’s (DES) Division of Air Quality will resume normal operations and no longer accept stationary source permit applications and compliance documents/reports electronically or via email. These documents must be delivered directly to DES’s offices at 4701 W. Russell Rd., in person or via mail/courier. The change in operation is a result of Gov. Steve Sisolak lifting Nevada’s state of emergency on May 20.

Permitting and compliance documents that will be affected include: stationary source applications, semiannual/annual reports, compliance certifications, deviation reports, emissions inventory reports, test notification forms for gasoline dispensing operations (GDO), stack testing and relative accuracy test audit (RATA) protocols and vapor testing, stack testing and RATA reports and Asbestos NESHAP Notifications.

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Air Quality Dust Alert Issued for Friday

The Clark County Department of Environment and Sustainability has issued a dust alert, effective Friday, May 20, due to elevated levels of dust that transported into the Vegas Valley from the Mojave Desert by high southwesterly winds. Officials say unhealthy levels of dust for people with breathing sensitivities are imminent or occurring in the local area.

Airborne dust is a form of inhalable air pollution called particulate matter or PM, which aggravates respiratory diseases. Under windy conditions people with heart or lung disease, older adults, and children may feel better staying indoors as much as possible because they could be at greater risk from particulates, especially when they are physically active, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Consult your physician if you have a medical condition that makes you sensitive to air pollution.

The EPA’s Air Quality Index translates air quality data into colors to help people understand when they may experience health effects from air pollution. An AQI of 101 or more is considered a level that may be unhealthy for sensitive groups of people. Tips to limit exposure to dust include:

• Limit outdoor exertion on windy days when dust is in the air. Exercise, for example, makes you breathe heavier and increases the amount of particulates you are likely to inhale.
• Keep windows and doors
• Run your air conditioner inside your house and car to filter out
• Consider changing your indoor air filters if they are dirty.
• To keep dust down, drive slowly on unpaved roads.
• Don’t take short cuts across vacant lots.
• Ride off-road vehicles in approved areas outside the urban Las Vegas Valley.
• Call Environment and Sustainability’s dust complaint hotline at 702-385-DUST (3878) to report excessive amounts of blowing dust from construction sites, vacant lots or facilities.

STAY UP TO DATE WITH AIR QUALITY INFORMATION

The Department of Environment and Sustainability monitors air pollution through a network of monitoring sites throughout the Las Vegas Valley. Data is collected from these sites and reported at our monitoring website: DESAQMonitoring.ClarkCountyNV.gov. People can stay informed through a couple channels:

• Social Media: Read air quality updates in your Facebook news feed or tweets. On Facebook: facebook.com/SustainClarkCounty, Twitter: @SustainClarkCty and Instagram: @sustainclarkcounty.
• EnviroFlash: Receive daily text or email messages with the latest air quality information. Learn more at enviroflash.org. The Dept. of Environment and Sustainability also issues advisories and alerts for ozone and other pollutants such as dust, smoke and other particulate matter.
• AIRNow: Check air quality forecasts, current conditions and the Air Quality Index (AQI) for Clark County at AIRNow’s website.

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Clark County Receives Three Achievement Awards from National Association of Counties

Clark County received three awards from the National Association of Counties (NACo) in its 2022 Achievement Awards. The Department of Environment and Sustainability (DES) claimed two awards—a Best in Category Award for County Administration and Management for the Online Mineral Processing Tool for Air Quality Permitting—and an Achievement Award in County Resiliency for the All-In Clark County: Sustainability and Climate Action Plan for County Operations. In addition, the Clark County Recorder’s Office captured an Achievement Award in Information Technology for the Recording Notification Service (RNS) app it developed.

“Clark County employees are among the best and brightest in our community,” said County Manager Yolanda King. “Their work ethic and dedication to service on a daily basis to the people and visitors of Southern Nevada is truly unparalleled. I am proud of their achievements and happy to see they received national recognition for their efforts.”

Founded in 1935 and based in Washington, D.C., the National Association of Counties (NACo) represents America’s 3,069 county governments. Its annual Achievement Awards have been given each year since 1970.

About the Award-winning Programs

Program: Online Mineral Processing Tool for Air Quality Permitting (Best in Category recipient)
Category: County Administration and Management
Department: Environment and Sustainability

DES’s Division of Air Quality developed its Online Mineral Processing Tool for Air Quality Permitting to reduce the time and effort associated with preparing and processing applications while meeting the County’s submittal standards. By moving to an online application tool that automates highly complex calculations, DES is able to save time for both applicants and staff and use their resources more efficiently.

Program: All-In Clark County: Sustainability and Climate Action Plan for County Operations
Category: County Resiliency
Department: Environment and Sustainability

Developed by DES’s Office of Sustainability, the All-In Clark County initiative strives to create a sustainable and resilient community for today and the future. The Sustainability and Climate Action Plan is a roadmap for increasing the sustainability of the County’s internal operations and also illustrates the County’s commitment to addresses climate change risks and impacts while leading Southern Nevada toward a sustainable and resilient future.

“Both of these programs illustrate the talent, dedication and ingenuity of DES staff to take a highly complex challenge and develop long-term solutions that will benefit the community well into the future,” said DES director Marci Henson. “It’s truly and honor to see the people who worked on these projects be recognized for their efforts.”

Program: The Recording Notification Service (RNS)
Category: Information Technology
Department: Recorder’s Office

Created by the Clark County Recorder’s Office, Information Technology Unit, the Recording Notification Service (RNS) app allows citizens to monitor if and when documents are recorded on a specific property. It is a cost-effective, user-friendly application to maintain property records as well as detect fraudulent activity.

“Currently Las Vegas is in a growth mode and the Recorder’s Office processes more than a million public documents annually,” said Clark County Recorder Debbie Conway. “RNS is a tool designed to notify subscribers each time a document is recorded against a monitored name or a parcel number. This service will be extremely beneficial to all who enroll in the program. Participants will be notified if something has been recorded against their property so they can follow up as soon as possible. Many people don’t find out a lien has been placed on their property until they sell it because they aren’t used to checking their property records.”

The Best in Category winners will be celebrated at the NACo Achievement Awards luncheon on July 23 at NACo’s Annual Conference and Exposition in Adams County, Colo.

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Air Quality Dust Advisory Issued for Sunday

The Clark County Department of Environment and Sustainability has issued a dust advisory for Sunday, May 8, to advise residents and local construction sites of the possibility of elevated levels of blowing dust due to the forecast of high winds in our area.

Airborne dust is a form of inhalable air pollution called particulate matter or PM, which aggravates respiratory diseases. Under windy conditions people with heart or lung disease, older adults, and children may feel better staying indoors as much as possible because they could be at greater risk from particulates, especially when they are physically active, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Consult your physician if you have a medical condition that makes you sensitive to air pollution.

The EPA’s Air Quality Index translates air quality data into colors to help people understand when they may experience health effects from air pollution. An AQI of 101 or more is considered a level that may be unhealthy for sensitive groups of people. Tips to limit exposure to dust include:

• Limit outdoor exertion on windy days when dust is in the air. Exercise, for example, makes you breathe heavier and increases the amount of particulates you are likely to inhale.
• Keep windows and doors
• Run your air conditioner inside your house and car to filter out
• Consider changing your indoor air filters if they are dirty.
• To keep dust down, drive slowly on unpaved roads.
• Don’t take short cuts across vacant lots.
• Ride off-road vehicles in approved areas outside the urban Las Vegas Valley.
• Call Environment and Sustainability’s dust complaint hotline at 702-385-DUST (3878) to report excessive amounts of blowing dust from construction sites, vacant lots or facilities.

STAY UP TO DATE WITH AIR QUALITY INFORMATION

The Department of Environment and Sustainability monitors air pollution through a network of monitoring sites throughout the Las Vegas Valley. Data is collected from these sites and reported at our monitoring website: DESAQMonitoring.ClarkCountyNV.gov. People can stay informed through a couple channels:

• Social Media: Read air quality updates in your Facebook news feed or tweets. On Facebook: facebook.com/SustainClarkCounty, Twitter: @SustainClarkCty and Instagram: @sustainclarkcounty.
• EnviroFlash: Receive daily text or email messages with the latest air quality information. Learn more at enviroflash.org. The Dept. of Environment and Sustainability also issues advisories and alerts for ozone and other pollutants such as dust, smoke and other particulate matter.
• AIRNow: Check air quality forecasts, current conditions and the Air Quality Index (AQI) for Clark County at AIRNow’s website.

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Air Quality Dust Advisory Issued for Tuesday

The Clark County Department of Environment and Sustainability has issued a dust advisory for Tuesday, April 19, to advise residents and local construction sites of the possibility of elevated levels of blowing dust due to the forecast of high winds in our area.

Airborne dust is a form of inhalable air pollution called particulate matter or PM, which aggravates respiratory diseases. Under windy conditions people with heart or lung disease, older adults, and children may feel better staying indoors as much as possible because they could be at greater risk from particulates, especially when they are physically active, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Consult your physician if you have a medical condition that makes you sensitive to air pollution.

The EPA’s Air Quality Index translates air quality data into colors to help people understand when they may experience health effects from air pollution. An AQI of 101 or more is considered a level that may be unhealthy for sensitive groups of people. Tips to limit exposure to dust include:

• Limit outdoor exertion on windy days when dust is in the air. Exercise, for example, makes you breathe heavier and increases the amount of particulates you are likely to inhale.
• Keep windows and doors
• Run your air conditioner inside your house and car to filter out
• Consider changing your indoor air filters if they are dirty.
• To keep dust down, drive slowly on unpaved roads.
• Don’t take short cuts across vacant lots.
• Ride off-road vehicles in approved areas outside the urban Las Vegas Valley.
• Call Environment and Sustainability’s dust complaint hotline at 702-385-DUST (3878) to report excessive amounts of blowing dust from construction sites, vacant lots or facilities.

STAY UP TO DATE WITH AIR QUALITY INFORMATION

The Department of Environment and Sustainability monitors air pollution through a network of monitoring sites throughout the Las Vegas Valley. Data is collected from these sites and reported at our monitoring website: DESAQMonitoring.ClarkCountyNV.gov. People can stay informed through a couple channels:

• Social Media: Read air quality updates in your Facebook news feed or tweets. On Facebook: facebook.com/SustainClarkCounty, Twitter: @SustainClarkCty and Instagram: @sustainclarkcounty.
• EnviroFlash: Receive daily text or email messages with the latest air quality information. Learn more at enviroflash.org. The Dept. of Environment and Sustainability also issues advisories and alerts for ozone and other pollutants such as dust, smoke and other particulate matter.
• AIRNow: Check air quality forecasts, current conditions and the Air Quality Index (AQI) for Clark County at AIRNow’s website.

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Air Quality Dust Advisory Issued for Saturday

The Clark County Department of Environment and Sustainability has issued a dust advisory for Saturday, April 16, to advise residents and local construction sites of the possibility of elevated levels of blowing dust due to the forecast of high winds in our area.

Airborne dust is a form of inhalable air pollution called particulate matter or PM, which aggravates respiratory diseases. Under windy conditions people with heart or lung disease, older adults, and children may feel better staying indoors as much as possible because they could be at greater risk from particulates, especially when they are physically active, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Consult your physician if you have a medical condition that makes you sensitive to air pollution.

The EPA’s Air Quality Index translates air quality data into colors to help people understand when they may experience health effects from air pollution. An AQI of 101 or more is considered a level that may be unhealthy for sensitive groups of people. Tips to limit exposure to dust include:

• Limit outdoor exertion on windy days when dust is in the air. Exercise, for example, makes you breathe heavier and increases the amount of particulates you are likely to inhale.
• Keep windows and doors
• Run your air conditioner inside your house and car to filter out
• Consider changing your indoor air filters if they are dirty.
• To keep dust down, drive slowly on unpaved roads.
• Don’t take short cuts across vacant lots.
• Ride off-road vehicles in approved areas outside the urban Las Vegas Valley.
• Call Environment and Sustainability’s dust complaint hotline at 702-385-DUST (3878) to report excessive amounts of blowing dust from construction sites, vacant lots or facilities.

STAY UP TO DATE WITH AIR QUALITY INFORMATION

The Department of Environment and Sustainability monitors air pollution through a network of monitoring sites throughout the Las Vegas Valley. Data is collected from these sites and reported at our monitoring website: DESAQMonitoring.ClarkCountyNV.gov. People can stay informed through a couple channels:

• Social Media: Read air quality updates in your Facebook news feed or tweets. On Facebook: facebook.com/SustainClarkCounty, Twitter: @SustainClarkCty and Instagram: @sustainclarkcounty.
• EnviroFlash: Receive daily text or email messages with the latest air quality information. Learn more at enviroflash.org. The Dept. of Environment and Sustainability also issues advisories and alerts for ozone and other pollutants such as dust, smoke and other particulate matter.
• AIRNow: Check air quality forecasts, current conditions and the Air Quality Index (AQI) for Clark County at AIRNow’s website.

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Air Quality Dust Advisory Issued for Monday

The Clark County Department of Environment and Sustainability has issued a dust advisory for Monday, April 11, to advise residents and local construction sites of the possibility of elevated levels of blowing dust due to the forecast of high winds in our area.

Airborne dust is a form of inhalable air pollution called particulate matter or PM, which aggravates respiratory diseases. Under windy conditions people with heart or lung disease, older adults, and children may feel better staying indoors as much as possible because they could be at greater risk from particulates, especially when they are physically active, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Consult your physician if you have a medical condition that makes you sensitive to air pollution.

The EPA’s Air Quality Index translates air quality data into colors to help people understand when they may experience health effects from air pollution. An AQI of 101 or more is considered a level that may be unhealthy for sensitive groups of people. Tips to limit exposure to dust include:

• Limit outdoor exertion on windy days when dust is in the air. Exercise, for example, makes you breathe heavier and increases the amount of particulates you are likely to inhale.
• Keep windows and doors
• Run your air conditioner inside your house and car to filter out
• Consider changing your indoor air filters if they are dirty.
• To keep dust down, drive slowly on unpaved roads.
• Don’t take short cuts across vacant lots.
• Ride off-road vehicles in approved areas outside the urban Las Vegas Valley.
• Call Environment and Sustainability’s dust complaint hotline at 702-385-DUST (3878) to report excessive amounts of blowing dust from construction sites, vacant lots or facilities.

STAY UP TO DATE WITH AIR QUALITY INFORMATION

The Department of Environment and Sustainability monitors air pollution through a network of monitoring sites throughout the Las Vegas Valley. Data is collected from these sites and reported at our monitoring website: DESAQMonitoring.ClarkCountyNV.gov. People can stay informed through a couple channels:

• Social Media: Read air quality updates in your Facebook news feed or tweets. On Facebook: facebook.com/SustainClarkCounty, Twitter: @SustainClarkCty and Instagram: @sustainclarkcounty.
• EnviroFlash: Receive daily text or email messages with the latest air quality information. Learn more at enviroflash.org. The Dept. of Environment and Sustainability also issues advisories and alerts for ozone and other pollutants such as dust, smoke and other particulate matter.
• AIRNow: Check air quality forecasts, current conditions and the Air Quality Index (AQI) for Clark County at AIRNow’s website.

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Seasonal Smoke and Ozone Advisory Issued Through September

The Clark County Department of Environment and Sustainability issued a season-long advisory for ground-level ozone pollution and wildfire smoke today that will be in effect from Friday, April 1 through Friday, Sept. 30. While the seasonal ozone advisory is standard, this marks the first year DES is issuing a seasonal smoke advisory. Officials say the seasonal smoke advisory is necessary as wildfire smoke drifting into Southern Nevada has occurred in four of the past five summers. Smoke can cause particulate matter pollution as well as influence ozone formation.

“This is a necessary change to our seasonal air quality advisory due to the impacts of climate change, drought and other factors,” said DES director Marci Henson. “Wildfire smoke during the summer months has become the new normal for Las Vegas, right alongside ozone formation and we want to be sure the public is informed so they can make their best decisions moving forward.”

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, people who may be most sensitive to elevated levels of particulates and ozone include individuals with respiratory problems, cardiac disease, young children or senior citizens. Consult your physician if you have a medical condition that makes you sensitive to air quality conditions.

Ozone is a colorless, odorless gas that exists naturally in the Earth’s stratosphere. At ground level, ozone is a key ingredient of urban smog that can build up during the day in the hottest months of the year due to strong sunlight, hot temperatures, gasoline and chemical vapors, pollutants from automobiles, wildfires and regional transport. Exposure to ozone can irritate your respiratory system and cause coughing, a sore throat, chest pain and shortness of breath even in healthy people, according to the EPA.

Smoke is made of small particles and other pollutants that can aggravate respiratory diseases and contribute to ground-level ozone formation. Exposure to ozone can induce coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath even in healthy people.

SMOKE AND OZONE TIPS

• Stay indoors when you smell or see smoke.

• Limit outdoor activity and exertion when ozone levels are elevated – exercise makes you breathe heavier and increases the amount of ozone and particulates you may inhale.
• Keep windows and doors closed. Run your air conditioner inside your house and car. Air conditioning filters out smoke and particulates.
• Change your indoor air filters if they are dirty.
• Schedule activities for the morning or evening when ozone levels are usually lower.
• Substitute a less intense activity – walk instead of jog, for example.
• Always consult your doctor first for medical advice.

HELPFUL TIPS TO REDUCE OZONE

Because exhaust from cars, trucks and other vehicles are major contributors to ozone, people can follow these helpful, everyday tips to reduce ozone:

• Reduce driving – combine errands into one trip.
• Don’t idle your car engine unnecessarily.
• Use mass transit or carpool.
• Fill up your gas tank after sunset. Try not to spill gasoline when filling up and don’t top off your tank.
• Keep your car well maintained.
• Consider landscaping that uses less water and gas-powered equipment to maintain.
• Turn off lights and electronics when not in use. Less fuel burned at power plants means cleaner air.

STAY UP TO DATE WITH AIR QUALITY INFORMATION

The Department of Environment and Sustainability monitors air pollution through a network of monitoring sites throughout the Las Vegas Valley. Data is collected from these sites and reported at our monitoring website: DESAQMonitoring.ClarkCountyNV.gov. People can stay informed through a couple channels:

• Social Media: Read air quality updates in your Facebook news feed or tweets. On Facebook: facebook.com/SustainClarkCounty, Twitter: @SustainClarkCty and Instagram: @sustainclarkcounty.
• EnviroFlash: Receive daily text or email messages with the latest air quality information. Learn more at enviroflash.org. The Dept. of Environment and Sustainability also issues advisories and alerts for ozone and other pollutants such as dust, smoke and other particulate matter.
• AIRNow: Check air quality forecasts, current conditions and the Air Quality Index (AQI) for Clark County at AIRNow’s website.

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Applications Being Accepted for Air Pollution Control Hearing Board

Applications are being accepted now to fill one position on Clark County’s Air Pollution Control (APC) Hearing Board: a professional engineer licensed in Nevada. This three-year position begins July 19.

The APC Hearing Board is a seven-member board appointed by the Clark County Board of Commissioners. It is responsible for hearing enforcement and permit appeals, assessing civil penalties, and other Department of Environment and Sustainability, Division of Air Quality (DAQ) matters that come before the board for resolution.

Applicants must be a resident of Nevada and shall not be an employee of the State of Nevada or any other political subdivision of the state. These are voluntary appointments with no compensation. The APC Hearing Board generally meets four to six times per year. Applications will only be accepted on the form provided, which may be obtained at the County’s website at this link or by calling 702-455-0354. All applications must be received no later than April 14 at 4 p.m. PDT and may be submitted electronically to aqenforement@clarkcountynv.gov or by mailing the application to: Department of Environment and Sustainability, Division of Air Quality, Attn: Sherrie Rogge, 4701 W. Russell Rd., Suite 200, Las Vegas, NV 89118.

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East Las Vegas “Mystery Droplets” Case Solved…You Won’t BEE-lieve it!

Remember those reports in early February of unexplained “mystery droplets” falling from the sky in an east Las Vegas Neighborhood? These dark-colored droplets covered vehicles and home of at least one resident in the neighborhood. What was causing the “rain” to fall in this neighborhood? Was it toxic? Was it caused by air traffic or something else?

DES Division of Air Quality supervisor Scott Jelinek was tasked with investigating the situation in Eastern Las Vegas. He visited the neighborhood in question, collected samples and sent them to SGS Forensic Laboratories for a full analysis. Was it a military exercise? Was it a UFO? Turns out, the sources of the droplets were buzzing a bit closer to terra firma.

On March 1, SGS delivered the results: “The samples consist of pollen grains of multiple species of plants,” reads the report’s conclusion “Based on content and deposition of the material on surfaces, the samples are identified as bee frass.”

According to the beekeeper website, HoneyBeeSuite.com, bee frass is defined as “fecal droppings.” That’s right. The “mystery droplets” are actually bee poop.

DES officials said the offending bees will not be issued a notice of violation at this time.

While the bee frass case may seem silly, DES director Marci Henson points out the importance of taking seriously environmental issues in the community.

“In the end, this turned out to be a relatively harmless, natural occurrence; a bit of a nuisance, but harmless,” said Henson. “We along with other agencies who were contacted felt it was important we investigate because we’ve seen in other communities the environmental and public health issues that can arise from urban and industrial pollution.”

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Air Quality Dust Advisory Issued for Saturday

The Clark County Department of Environment and Sustainability has issued a dust advisory for Saturday, March 5, to advise residents and local construction sites of the possibility of elevated levels of blowing dust due to the forecast of high winds in our area.

Airborne dust is a form of inhalable air pollution called particulate matter or PM, which aggravates respiratory diseases. Under windy conditions people with heart or lung disease, older adults, and children may feel better staying indoors as much as possible because they could be at greater risk from particulates, especially when they are physically active, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Consult your physician if you have a medical condition that makes you sensitive to air pollution.

The EPA’s Air Quality Index translates air quality data into colors to help people understand when they may experience health effects from air pollution. An AQI of 101 or more is considered a level that may be unhealthy for sensitive groups of people. Tips to limit exposure to dust include:

• Limit outdoor exertion on windy days when dust is in the air. Exercise, for example, makes you breathe heavier and increases the amount of particulates you are likely to inhale.
• Keep windows and doors
• Run your air conditioner inside your house and car to filter out
• Consider changing your indoor air filters if they are dirty.
• To keep dust down, drive slowly on unpaved roads.
• Don’t take short cuts across vacant lots.
• Ride off-road vehicles in approved areas outside the urban Las Vegas Valley.
• Call Environment and Sustainability’s dust complaint hotline at 702-385-DUST (3878) to report excessive amounts of blowing dust from construction sites, vacant lots or facilities.

STAY UP TO DATE WITH AIR QUALITY INFORMATION

The Department of Environment and Sustainability monitors air pollution through a network of monitoring sites throughout the Las Vegas Valley. Data is collected from these sites and reported at our monitoring website: AirQuality.ClarkCountyNV.gov. People can stay informed through a couple channels:

• Twitter and Facebook: Read air quality updates in your Facebook news feed or tweets. On Facebook: facebook.com/SustainClarkCounty and Twitter: @SustainClarkCty.
• EnviroFlash: Receive daily text or email messages with the latest air quality information. Learn more at enviroflash.org. The Dept. of Environment and Sustainability also issues advisories and alerts for ozone and other pollutants such as dust, smoke and other particulate matters.
• AIRNow: Check air quality forecasts, current conditions and the Air Quality Index (AQI) for Clark County at AIRNow’s website.

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Air Quality Dust Advisory Issued for Tuesday

The Clark County Department of Environment and Sustainability has issued a dust advisory for Tuesday, Feb. 22, to advise residents and local construction sites of the possibility of elevated levels of blowing dust due to the forecast of high winds in our area.

Airborne dust is a form of inhalable air pollution called particulate matter or PM, which aggravates respiratory diseases. Under windy conditions people with heart or lung disease, older adults, and children may feel better staying indoors as much as possible because they could be at greater risk from particulates, especially when they are physically active, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Consult your physician if you have a medical condition that makes you sensitive to air pollution.

The EPA’s Air Quality Index translates air quality data into colors to help people understand when they may experience health effects from air pollution. An AQI of 101 or more is considered a level that may be unhealthy for sensitive groups of people. Tips to limit exposure to dust include:

• Limit outdoor exertion on windy days when dust is in the air. Exercise, for example, makes you breathe heavier and increases the amount of particulates you are likely to inhale.
• Keep windows and doors
• Run your air conditioner inside your house and car to filter out
• Consider changing your indoor air filters if they are dirty.
• To keep dust down, drive slowly on unpaved roads.
• Don’t take short cuts across vacant lots.
• Ride off-road vehicles in approved areas outside the urban Las Vegas Valley.
• Call Environment and Sustainability’s dust complaint hotline at 702-385-DUST (3878) to report excessive amounts of blowing dust from construction sites, vacant lots or facilities.

STAY UP TO DATE WITH AIR QUALITY INFORMATION

The Department of Environment and Sustainability monitors air pollution through a network of monitoring sites throughout the Las Vegas Valley. Data is collected from these sites and reported at our monitoring website: AirQuality.ClarkCountyNV.gov. People can stay informed through a couple channels:

• Twitter and Facebook: Read air quality updates in your Facebook news feed or tweets. On Facebook: facebook.com/SustainClarkCounty and Twitter: @SustainClarkCty.
• EnviroFlash: Receive daily text or email messages with the latest air quality information. Learn more at enviroflash.org. The Dept. of Environment and Sustainability also issues advisories and alerts for ozone and other pollutants such as dust, smoke and other particulate matters.
• AIRNow: Check air quality forecasts, current conditions and the Air Quality Index (AQI) for Clark County at AIRNow’s website.

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Report: Buildings and Transportation Account for Most Greenhouse Gas Emissions in Clark County

Clark County residents, businesses and visitors generated more than 29 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (MTCO2_E) in 2019, according to the Regional Community Greenhouse Gas Inventory Report. How does that figure stack up compared to other large, urban population centers? The City of Los Angeles emitted about 25 million MTCO2_E in 2018. In 2017, the City of Chicago reported emitting approximately 31 million MTCO2_E. For Clark County officials, the GHG inventory report provides a necessary baseline to begin taking steps to decrease pollutants contributing to climate change.

“Understanding the sources of greenhouse gas emissions is the first step in addressing climate change issues in Clark County,” said Marci Henson, director of Clark County’s Department of Environment and Sustainability. “This collaborative effort involved representation from all local governments as well as input from business, industry and nonprofits across the region. The data it provides will allow our working groups to find the best solutions to reducing GHGs, now and into the future.”

What are Greenhouse Gases?

Greenhouse gases (GHGs) are naturally occurring compounds (such as carbon dioxide and methane) that provide a “blanket” in the atmosphere, trapping heat and regulating the Earth’s temperature. However, when fossil fuels (like natural gas, coal, and gasoline) are burned or when materials in landfills decompose, the level of GHGs in the atmosphere increases and the global “blanket” of gases becomes thicker. This has caused an increase in the global average temperature as well as more local extreme weather events, drought, and other climate hazards already being experienced in Nevada.

All-In Clark County

All-In Clark County, an initiative to address climate change in the region, is comprised of a county operations plan as well as a community sustainability and climate action planning effort. The Clark County Board of Commissioners adopted the county operations plan in 2021.The now-completed greenhouse gas inventory and the currently-underway climate vulnerability assessment are the foundational technical tools of the community plan and will provide vital information to combat the impacts of climate change in Clark County.

Sources of Greenhouse Gases in Clark County, 2019

Findings in the report show most of the region’s GHG emissions—about 48 percent—come from buildings and the industrial sector combined. This includes energy used to heat homes, turn on lights and power facilities. Specifically, residential and commercial electricity are the primary GHG sources. The transportation sector is the second largest GHG emissions sector in Clark County, contributing approximately 37 percent of regional emissions. The full report is available online at AllinClarkCounty.com.

Source: Regional Community Greenhouse Gas Inventory Report

“By taking a sharp, focused, regional approach to developing this emissions inventory we now have a data set that will drive decision-making to achieve short-term and long-term positive impacts for our residents, visitors and business sector,” said Clark County Commissioner Justin Jones. “The impacts of climate change won’t resolve themselves and this report is just one step on the path to several more steps. We are committed to realizing the goal of zero GHG emissions by 2050 and establishing Clark County as a national example of how to address climate change impacts on all fronts.”

State and Local Inventory Comparison

The Southern Nevada GHG emissions inventory arrives at a different conclusion than the State of Nevada’s GHG inventory. That state’s inventory indicates transportation is the leading cause of GHG emissions, while the Southern Nevada report cites buildings as the top GHG emitter. The difference is due to a difference in focus and variations in accounting. While the state is focused on how electricity is produced within its borders, the community inventory focuses on the impact of electricity usage.

In terms of accounting differences, the State of Nevada accounts for GHGs from the production of electricity within its borders, using a simple data collection process that is consistent with all other states. Because power used at the local level comes from a variety of locations—including state, local and out-of-state sources—emissions can be attributed to both users and producers of electricity, creating a more nuanced set of conclusions.

“While some conclusions may differ between state and local GHG emissions inventories, both are critical tools for creating policy and actions at the community level,” said Henson. “The conclusions are consistent and the goal remains the same: GHG emissions must be reduced to achieve a resilient and sustainable Southern Nevada and State of Nevada for generations to follow.”

About the Report

The Regional Community Greenhouse Gas Inventory Report was prepared by Clark County on behalf of the Southern Nevada Regional Planning Coalition (SNRPC). It is part of the All-In Clark County initiative and is the first regional GHG emissions inventory report since 2014. Regional partners include: Boulder City, City of Henderson, City of Las Vegas, City of Mesquite, City of North Las Vegas, and Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada. Data for the report was provided by: Clark County Department of Aviation, NV Energy, Overton Power District, Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada, Republic Services, Silver State Energy Association, Southern Nevada Health District, Southern Nevada Water Authority and Southwest Gas.

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Go All-In on Climate Change with the All-In Clark County Virtual Forums

What is Clark County’s plan to reduce greenhouse gas emissions? Are we prepared for climate-driven emergencies? Find the answers to these climate change-related questions and more at the All-In Clark County Virtual Forum Series. Presented by Clark County’s Department of Environment and Sustainability, the series kicks off Tuesday, Feb. 15 at 4 p.m. It is free, online-only, open to the public and may be attended via telephone, smartphone or computer.

Over the next seven weeks, the series will review efforts related to Clark County’s All-In Clark County sustainability and climate action planning effort for Southern Nevada. It will share key focus areas of the plan, including Sustainable Water Systems, Resilient and Healthy Community and much more.

What: All-In Clark County Virtual Forum Series

When:

• Tuesday, Feb. 15, 4 – 6 p.m.: Climate Change in Southern Nevada
• Thursday, Feb. 24, noon – 2 p.m.: Resilient and Healthy Community
• Wednesday, March 2. 9 – 11 a.m.: Sustainable Water Systems
• Monday, March 7, 10 a.m. – noon: Clean and Reliable Energy
• Wednesday, March 16, 4 – 6 p.m.: Connected and Equitable Mobility
• Thursday, March 24, 7 – 9 p.m.: Smart Buildings and Development
• Monday, March 28, noon – 2 p.m.: Diverse and Circular Economy

Where: Online. To register, go to: https://publicinput.com/D4281.

Learn more about Clark County’s sustainability and climate action plan at AllinClarkCounty.com.

About the Department of Environment and Sustainability

The Department of Environment and Sustainability is the air pollution control agency, regional Endangered Species Act compliance program, and sustainability office for all of Clark County, Nevada. Established as the Department of Air Quality by the Clark County Commission in 2001, it was renamed in 2020 and is comprised of three divisions: Air Quality, Desert Conservation Program and Office of Sustainability. Through these three divisions, DES is ensuring the air we share meets healthful, regulatory standards, administering the County's Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan and addressing climate change.

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Air Quality Smoke Advisory Issued Due to New Year’s Eve Fireworks

The Clark County Department of Environment and Sustainability (DES) has issued an advisory for Friday, Dec. 31 and Saturday, Jan. 1 for smoke and high levels of particulates (PM_2.5 and PM₁₀) that could occur from fireworks on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day.

The scheduled fireworks on the Strip and anticipated neighborhood fireworks throughout Clark County may create smoke and particle pollution. Smoke is made of small dust particles and other pollutants that can aggravate respiratory diseases and contribute to ground-level ozone formation. Particulates are typically created by vehicle exhaust and wood smoke.

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, people who may be most sensitive to elevated levels of particulates and ozone include individuals with respiratory problems, cardiac disease, young children or senior citizens. Consult your physician if you have a medical condition that makes you sensitive to air quality conditions.

HELPFUL TIPS TO LIMIT PERSONAL EXPOSURE TO SMOKE

• Limit outdoor exertion on days with high levels of fine particles in the air. Exercise makes you breathe heavier and increases the amount of particulates you are likely to inhale.
• Keep windows and doors
• Consider changing your indoor air filters if they are dirty.

STAY UP TO DATE WITH AIR QUALITY INFORMATION

The Department of Environment and Sustainability monitors air pollution through a network of monitoring sites throughout the Las Vegas Valley. Data is collected from these sites and reported at our monitoring website: AirQuality.ClarkCountyNV.gov. People can stay informed through a couple channels:

• Twitter and Facebook: Read air quality updates in your Facebook news feed or tweets. On Facebook: facebook.com/SustainClarkCounty and Twitter: @SustainClarkCty.
• EnviroFlash: Receive daily text or email messages with the latest air quality information. Learn more at enviroflash.org. The Dept. of Environment and Sustainability also issues advisories and alerts for ozone and other pollutants such as dust, smoke and other particulate matters.
• AIRNow: Check air quality forecasts, current conditions and the Air Quality Index (AQI) for Clark County at AIRNow’s website.

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Air Quality Dust Advisory Issued for Monday

The Clark County Department of Environment and Sustainability has issued a dust advisory for Monday, Oct. 25, to advise residents and local construction sites of the possibility of elevated levels of blowing dust due to the forecast of high winds in our area. Winds from the southwest will increase throughout the day – with afternoon wind speeds reaching 30 mph, including 40 mph gusts – potentially causing blowing dust.

Airborne dust is a form of inhalable air pollution called particulate matter or PM, which aggravates respiratory diseases. Under windy conditions people with heart or lung disease, older adults, and children may feel better staying indoors as much as possible because they could be at greater risk from particulates, especially when they are physically active, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Consult your physician if you have a medical condition that makes you sensitive to air pollution.

The EPA’s Air Quality Index translates air quality data into colors to help people understand when they may experience health effects from air pollution. An AQI of 101 or more is considered a level that may be unhealthy for sensitive groups of people. Tips to limit exposure to dust include:

• Limit outdoor exertion on windy days when dust is in the air. Exercise, for example, makes you breathe heavier and increases the amount of particulates you are likely to inhale.
• Keep windows and doors
• Run your air conditioner inside your house and car to filter out
• Consider changing your indoor air filters if they are dirty.
• To keep dust down, drive slowly on unpaved roads.
• Don’t take short cuts across vacant lots.
• Ride off-road vehicles in approved areas outside the urban Las Vegas Valley.
• Call Environment and Sustainability’s dust complaint hotline at 702-385-DUST (3878) to report excessive amounts of blowing dust from construction sites, vacant lots or facilities.

STAY UP TO DATE WITH AIR QUALITY INFORMATION

The Department of Environment and Sustainability monitors air pollution through a network of monitoring sites throughout the Las Vegas Valley. Data is collected from these sites and reported at our monitoring website: AirQuality.ClarkCountyNV.gov. People can stay informed through a couple channels:

• Twitter and Facebook: Read air quality updates in your Facebook news feed or tweets. On Facebook: facebook.com/SustainClarkCounty and Twitter: @SustainClarkCty.
• EnviroFlash: Receive daily text or email messages with the latest air quality information. Learn more at enviroflash.org. The Dept. of Environment and Sustainability also issues advisories and alerts for ozone and other pollutants such as dust, smoke and other particulate matters.
• AIRNow: Check air quality forecasts, current conditions and the Air Quality Index (AQI) for Clark County at AIRNow’s website.

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Air Quality Dust Advisory Issued for Monday

The Clark County Department of Environment and Sustainability has issued a dust advisory for Monday, Oct. 18, to advise residents and local construction sites of the possibility of elevated levels of blowing dust due to the forecast of high winds in our area. Wind speeds of 30 mph—including 40 mph gusts—are expected, potentially causing blowing dust.

Airborne dust is a form of inhalable air pollution called particulate matter or PM, which aggravates respiratory diseases. Under windy conditions people with heart or lung disease, older adults, and children may feel better staying indoors as much as possible because they could be at greater risk from particulates, especially when they are physically active, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Consult your physician if you have a medical condition that makes you sensitive to air pollution.

The EPA’s Air Quality Index translates air quality data into colors to help people understand when they may experience health effects from air pollution. An AQI of 101 or more is considered a level that may be unhealthy for sensitive groups of people. Tips to limit exposure to dust include:

• Limit outdoor exertion on windy days when dust is in the air. Exercise, for example, makes you breathe heavier and increases the amount of particulates you are likely to inhale.
• Keep windows and doors
• Run your air conditioner inside your house and car to filter out
• Consider changing your indoor air filters if they are dirty.
• To keep dust down, drive slowly on unpaved roads.
• Don’t take short cuts across vacant lots.
• Ride off-road vehicles in approved areas outside the urban Las Vegas Valley.
• Call Environment and Sustainability’s dust complaint hotline at 702-385-DUST (3878) to report excessive amounts of blowing dust from construction sites, vacant lots or facilities.

STAY UP TO DATE WITH AIR QUALITY INFORMATION

The Department of Environment and Sustainability monitors air pollution through a network of monitoring sites throughout the Las Vegas Valley. Data is collected from these sites and reported at our monitoring website: AirQuality.ClarkCountyNV.gov. People can stay informed through a couple channels:

• Twitter and Facebook: Read air quality updates in your Facebook news feed or tweets. On Facebook: facebook.com/SustainClarkCounty and Twitter: @SustainClarkCty.
• EnviroFlash: Receive daily text or email messages with the latest air quality information. Learn more at enviroflash.org. The Dept. of Environment and Sustainability also issues advisories and alerts for ozone and other pollutants such as dust, smoke and other particulate matters.
• AIRNow: Check air quality forecasts, current conditions and the Air Quality Index (AQI) for Clark County at AIRNow’s website.

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Clark County TV to Air, Stream All-In Clark County Meeting Wednesday

Livestream will Feature Community Members Tackling Climate Change

Ready to go All-In? Clark County will cablecast the first meeting of the All-In Sustainability and Climate Advisory Group on Clark County Television (CCTV) Channel 4 and livestream it on the County’s YouTube channel at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 13. Clark County Commissioner Justin Jones, County officials and community stakeholders will meet via Zoom to discuss sustainability and resilience in Southern Nevada.

What: All-In Sustainability and Climate Advisory Group
When: 10 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 13
Where: CCTV and YouTube.com/ClarkCountyNV

“Tomorrow’s meeting is an important first step in taking on climate change directly in our community,” said Commissioner Justin Jones. “The interest we’ve received from local organizations and businesses is encouraging. They want to go ‘All-In’ with us in taking action on community-wide sustainability and climate action.”

All-In Clark County is Clark County’s program to address climate change and create a more sustainable future for all residents, businesses and visitors. The program is managed by the County’s Office of Sustainability, a division of the Department of Environment and Sustainability. All-In Clark County is a two-phased approach, addressing County operations as well as developing a community-wide sustainability and climate action plan. To learn more, go to AllinClarkCounty.com.

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Air Quality Dust Advisory Issued for Monday

The Clark County Department of Environment and Sustainability has issued a dust advisory for Monday, Oct. 11, to advise residents and local construction sites of the possibility of elevated levels of blowing dust due to the forecast of high winds in our area. Wind speeds of 30 mph—including 40 mph gusts—are expected to begin around noon today, potentially causing blowing dust.

Airborne dust is a form of inhalable air pollution called particulate matter or PM, which aggravates respiratory diseases. Under windy conditions people with heart or lung disease, older adults, and children may feel better staying indoors as much as possible because they could be at greater risk from particulates, especially when they are physically active, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Consult your physician if you have a medical condition that makes you sensitive to air pollution.

The EPA’s Air Quality Index translates air quality data into colors to help people understand when they may experience health effects from air pollution. An AQI of 101 or more is considered a level that may be unhealthy for sensitive groups of people. Tips to limit exposure to dust include:

• Limit outdoor exertion on windy days when dust is in the air. Exercise, for example, makes you breathe heavier and increases the amount of particulates you are likely to inhale.
• Keep windows and doors
• Run your air conditioner inside your house and car to filter out
• Consider changing your indoor air filters if they are dirty.
• To keep dust down, drive slowly on unpaved roads.
• Don’t take short cuts across vacant lots.
• Ride off-road vehicles in approved areas outside the urban Las Vegas Valley.
• Call Environment and Sustainability’s dust complaint hotline at 702-385-DUST (3878) to report excessive amounts of blowing dust from construction sites, vacant lots or facilities.

STAY UP TO DATE WITH AIR QUALITY INFORMATION

The Department of Environment and Sustainability monitors air pollution through a network of monitoring sites throughout the Las Vegas Valley. Data is collected from these sites and reported at our monitoring website: AirQuality.ClarkCountyNV.gov. People can stay informed through a couple channels:

• Twitter and Facebook: Read air quality updates in your Facebook news feed or tweets. On Facebook: facebook.com/SustainClarkCounty and Twitter: @SustainClarkCty.
• EnviroFlash: Receive daily text or email messages with the latest air quality information. Learn more at enviroflash.org. The Dept. of Environment and Sustainability also issues advisories and alerts for ozone and other pollutants such as dust, smoke and other particulate matters.
• AIRNow: Check air quality forecasts, current conditions and the Air Quality Index (AQI) for Clark County at AIRNow’s website.

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Air Quality Smoke Advisory Issued Through Tuesday

The Clark County Department of Environment and Sustainability (DES) is issuing a smoke advisory, effective immediately through Tuesday, Sept. 28. Smoke from California wildfires continue to drift into Clark County, resulting in hazy skies and periods of increased levels of PM2.5 (fine particles).

DES Division of Air Quality officials say smoke is made of small particles and other pollutants that can aggravate respiratory diseases such as bronchitis and asthma or heart disease. Consult your physician if you have a medical condition that makes you sensitive to air quality conditions. Under today’s conditions, it may be best for children, the elderly and people with respiratory and heart disease to stay indoors.

HELPFUL TIPS TO LIMIT PERSONAL EXPOSURE TO SMOKE

• Limit outdoor exertion on days with high levels of fine particles in the air. Exercise makes you breathe heavier and increases the amount of particulates you are likely to inhale.
• Keep windows and doors
• Consider changing your indoor air filters if they are dirty.

STAY UP TO DATE WITH AIR QUALITY INFORMATION

The Department of Environment and Sustainability monitors air pollution through a network of monitoring sites throughout the Las Vegas Valley. Data is collected from these sites and reported at our monitoring website: AirQuality.ClarkCountyNV.gov. People can stay informed through a couple channels:

• Twitter and Facebook: Read air quality updates in your Facebook news feed or tweets. On Facebook: facebook.com/SustainClarkCounty and Twitter: @SustainClarkCty.
• EnviroFlash: Receive daily text or email messages with the latest air quality information. Learn more at enviroflash.org. The Dept. of Environment and Sustainability also issues advisories and alerts for ozone and other pollutants such as dust, smoke and other particulate matters.
• AIRNow: Check air quality forecasts, current conditions and the Air Quality Index (AQI) for Clark County at AIRNow’s website.

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Air Quality Advisory Issued for Smoke

The Clark County Department of Environment and Sustainability (DES) is issuing a smoke advisory for Thursday, Sept. 23 to Friday, Sept. 24. Smoke from two major fires in the southern Sierra Nevada Mountains will continue to drift into Clark County, resulting in hazy skies and periods of increased levels of PM2.5 (fine particles).

DES Division of Air Quality officials say smoke is made of small particles and other pollutants that can aggravate respiratory diseases such as bronchitis and asthma or heart disease. Consult your physician if you have a medical condition that makes you sensitive to air quality conditions. Under today’s conditions, it may be best for children, the elderly and people with respiratory and heart disease to stay indoors.

HELPFUL TIPS TO LIMIT PERSONAL EXPOSURE TO SMOKE

• Limit outdoor exertion on days with high levels of fine particles in the air. Exercise makes you breathe heavier and increases the amount of particulates you are likely to inhale.
• Keep windows and doors
• Consider changing your indoor air filters if they are dirty.

STAY UP TO DATE WITH AIR QUALITY INFORMATION

The Department of Environment and Sustainability monitors air pollution through a network of monitoring sites throughout the Las Vegas Valley. Data is collected from these sites and reported at our monitoring website: AirQuality.ClarkCountyNV.gov. People can stay informed through a couple channels:

• Twitter and Facebook: Read air quality updates in your Facebook news feed or tweets. On Facebook: facebook.com/SustainClarkCounty and Twitter: @SustainClarkCty.
• EnviroFlash: Receive daily text or email messages with the latest air quality information. Learn more at enviroflash.org. The Dept. of Environment and Sustainability also issues advisories and alerts for ozone and other pollutants such as dust, smoke and other particulate matters.
• AIRNow: Check air quality forecasts, current conditions and the Air Quality Index (AQI) for Clark County at AIRNow’s website.

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Air Quality Smoke Advisory Extended Through Monday

The Clark County Department of Environment and Sustainability (DES) is extending its smoke advisory through Monday, Sept. 20. Smoke from South Central California wildfires continues to drift into the region, leading to elevated levels of particulate matter in the air.

DES Division of Air Quality officials say smoke is made of small particles and other pollutants that can aggravate respiratory diseases such as bronchitis and asthma or heart disease. Consult your physician if you have a medical condition that makes you sensitive to air quality conditions. Under today’s conditions, it may be best for children, the elderly and people with respiratory and heart disease to stay indoors.

HELPFUL TIPS TO LIMIT PERSONAL EXPOSURE TO SMOKE

• Limit outdoor exertion on days with high levels of fine particles in the air. Exercise makes you breathe heavier and increases the amount of particulates you are likely to inhale.
• Keep windows and doors
• Consider changing your indoor air filters if they are dirty.

STAY UP TO DATE WITH AIR QUALITY INFORMATION

The Department of Environment and Sustainability monitors air pollution through a network of monitoring sites throughout the Las Vegas Valley. Data is collected from these sites and reported at our monitoring website: AirQuality.ClarkCountyNV.gov. People can stay informed through a couple channels:

• Twitter and Facebook: Read air quality updates in your Facebook news feed or tweets. On Facebook: facebook.com/SustainClarkCounty and Twitter: @SustainClarkCty.
• EnviroFlash: Receive daily text or email messages with the latest air quality information. Learn more at enviroflash.org. The Dept. of Environment and Sustainability also issues advisories and alerts for ozone and other pollutants such as dust, smoke and other particulate matters.
• AIRNow: Check air quality forecasts, current conditions and the Air Quality Index (AQI) for Clark County at AIRNow’s website.

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Air Quality Advisory Issued for Smoke

The Clark County Department of Environment and Sustainability (DES) is issuing a smoke advisory for tonight through Sunday, Sept. 19 due to wildfire smoke from South Central California drifting into the region.

DES Division of Air Quality officials say smoke is made of small particles and other pollutants that can aggravate respiratory diseases such as bronchitis and asthma or heart disease. Consult your physician if you have a medical condition that makes you sensitive to air quality conditions. Under today’s conditions, it may be best for children, the elderly and people with respiratory and heart disease to stay indoors.

HELPFUL TIPS TO LIMIT PERSONAL EXPOSURE TO SMOKE

• Limit outdoor exertion on days with high levels of fine particles in the air. Exercise makes you breathe heavier and increases the amount of particulates you are likely to inhale.
• Keep windows and doors
• Consider changing your indoor air filters if they are dirty.

STAY UP TO DATE WITH AIR QUALITY INFORMATION

The Department of Environment and Sustainability monitors air pollution through a network of monitoring sites throughout the Las Vegas Valley. Data is collected from these sites and reported at our monitoring website: AirQuality.ClarkCountyNV.gov. People can stay informed through a couple channels:

• Twitter and Facebook: Read air quality updates in your Facebook news feed or tweets. On Facebook: facebook.com/SustainClarkCounty and Twitter: @SustainClarkCty.
• EnviroFlash: Receive daily text or email messages with the latest air quality information. Learn more at enviroflash.org. The Dept. of Environment and Sustainability also issues advisories and alerts for ozone and other pollutants such as dust, smoke and other particulate matters.
• AIRNow: Check air quality forecasts, current conditions and the Air Quality Index (AQI) for Clark County at AIRNow’s website.

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Applications Being Accepted for Clark County Advisory Board to Manage Wildlife

Applications are being accepted for two volunteer positions on the Clark County Advisory Board to Manage Wildlife (CCABMW). The seven-member board solicits and evaluates local opinion and advises the Nevada Wildlife Commission on matters relating to wildlife. Ideal volunteer candidates include hunters, trappers, anglers or people engaged in ranching or farming in Clark County.

Qualifications, responsibilities and duties of the position are defined in the Nevada Revised Statutes sections 501.260 to 501.325. Deadline to submit completed applications is 5 p.m. PT, Oct. 14. Please submit applications to Darlene Kretunski.

To Apply

Application is available on the Clark County Department of Environment and Sustainability website. Submitted applications are subject to the Nevada Public Records Act and may be provided to the public. Submitted applications will be circulated as a backup document for consideration by the Clark County Board of Commissioners for appointment to the CCABMW.

Questions

Please contact Darlene Kretunski at 702-455-1402 or via email at Darlene.Kretunski@ClarkCountyNV.gov.

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Going All-In on Electric Vehicles

Clark County Fleet Will Be 100 Percent Electric by 2050

World EV (Electric Vehicle) Day is Thursday, Sept. 9. Already possessing the largest hybrid fleet among Nevada government agencies, Clark County is now pushing toward an all-EV fleet by 2050 by way of its sustainability and climate action plan—All-In Clark County. Officials with the County’s Department of Environment and Sustainability (DES), the agency charged with leading the All-In efforts, are confident Clark County can achieve the 2050 goal.

“Between industrial vehicles and traditional automobiles, we’ve already added more than 50 electric vehicles to our fleet and our plan is to continue adding more,” said DES Director Marci Henson. “With All-In Clark County as our roadmap I’m confident we can meet our EV benchmarks along the way to achieving zero-emission status by 2050.”

The 2050 zero-emission pledge folds into the County’s larger sustainability goals, which include:

• Earning a Clean Cities designation from the U.S. Department of Energy.
• Expanding EV charging stations—currently more than 220 in Clark County—and infrastructure throughout the region.
• Achieving a 50 percent reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2030.
• Converting 80 percent of the County’s fleet to alternative fuel vehicles by 2030.
• 100 percent EV fleet by 2050.

As of 2021, Clark County has 58 EVs in its fleet, including 11 Chevrolet Volts and six Teslas. The remaining EVs, such as forklifts and carts, are industrial-use vehicles. Beyond addressing County operations, All-In Clark County includes a communitywide sustainability and climate action plan that will further help reduce GHGs and improve local air quality. In addition to reducing air pollution, increased EV investment leads to expanded opportunities for local funding and fuel independence.

Clean Cities Designation

Clark County is gaining its Clean Cities designation through the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). The initiative, managed through DOE’s Vehicle Technologies Office, works with a diverse group of stakeholders to reduce emissions across the transportation sector including public and private utilities, local government, private businesses, schools, airports and off-roading vehicles. DES officials expect to be ready for designation review in 2022.

“A Clean Cities designation will signal to our visitors and our residents that we’re committed to combating climate change and developing a clean, sustainable Clark County for generations to follow,” said Henson.

About World EV Day

World EV (Electric Vehicle) Day was established in 2020 by sustainability media company Green TV to increase awareness about electric vehicles, their environment importance and cost effectiveness. Initially a pledge campaign with countries around the world to adopt EV technology and use, World EV Day is now an annual observance each Sept. 9.

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Air Quality Smoke Advisory Extended Through Wednesday

The Clark County Department of Environment and Sustainability (DES) is extending its smoke advisory through Wednesday, Aug. 25. Smoke from California wildfires is expected to continue drifting into the region, leading to elevated concentrations of particulate matter in the air.

DES Division of Air Quality officials say smoke is made of small particles and other pollutants that can aggravate respiratory diseases such as bronchitis and asthma or heart disease. Consult your physician if you have a medical condition that makes you sensitive to air quality conditions. Under today’s conditions, it may be best for children, the elderly and people with respiratory and heart disease to stay indoors.

HELPFUL TIPS TO LIMIT PERSONAL EXPOSURE TO SMOKE

• Limit outdoor exertion on days with high levels of fine particles in the air. Exercise makes you breathe heavier and increases the amount of particulates you are likely to inhale.
• Keep windows and doors
• Consider changing your indoor air filters if they are dirty.

STAY UP TO DATE WITH AIR QUALITY INFORMATION

The Department of Environment and Sustainability monitors air pollution through a network of monitoring sites throughout the Las Vegas Valley. Data is collected from these sites and reported at our monitoring website: AirQuality.ClarkCountyNV.gov. People can stay informed through a couple channels:

• Twitter and Facebook: Read air quality updates in your Facebook news feed or tweets. On Facebook: facebook.com/SustainClarkCounty and Twitter: @SustainClarkCty.
• EnviroFlash: Receive daily text or email messages with the latest air quality information. Learn more at enviroflash.org. The Dept. of Environment and Sustainability also issues advisories and alerts for ozone and other pollutants such as dust, smoke and other particulate matters.
• AIRNow: Check air quality forecasts, current conditions and the Air Quality Index (AQI) for Clark County at AIRNow’s website.

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Air Quality Smoke Advisory Extended Through Friday

The Clark County Department of Environment and Sustainability (DES) is extending its smoke advisory through Friday, Aug. 27. Smoke from California wildfires is expected to continue drifting into the region, leading to potentially elevated concentrations of particulate matter in the air.

DES Division of Air Quality officials say smoke is made of small particles and other pollutants that can aggravate respiratory diseases such as bronchitis and asthma or heart disease. Consult your physician if you have a medical condition that makes you sensitive to air quality conditions. Under today’s conditions, it may be best for children, the elderly and people with respiratory and heart disease to stay indoors.

HELPFUL TIPS TO LIMIT PERSONAL EXPOSURE TO SMOKE

• Limit outdoor exertion on days with high levels of fine particles in the air. Exercise makes you breathe heavier and increases the amount of particulates you are likely to inhale.
• Keep windows and doors
• Consider changing your indoor air filters if they are dirty.

STAY UP TO DATE WITH AIR QUALITY INFORMATION

The Department of Environment and Sustainability monitors air pollution through a network of monitoring sites throughout the Las Vegas Valley. Data is collected from these sites and reported at our monitoring website: AirQuality.ClarkCountyNV.gov. People can stay informed through a couple channels:

• Twitter and Facebook: Read air quality updates in your Facebook news feed or tweets. On Facebook: facebook.com/SustainClarkCounty and Twitter: @SustainClarkCty.
• EnviroFlash: Receive daily text or email messages with the latest air quality information. Learn more at enviroflash.org. The Dept. of Environment and Sustainability also issues advisories and alerts for ozone and other pollutants such as dust, smoke and other particulate matters.
• AIRNow: Check air quality forecasts, current conditions and the Air Quality Index (AQI) for Clark County at AIRNow’s website.

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Air Quality Smoke Advisory Issued for Tuesday

The Clark County Department of Environment and Sustainability (DES) is issuing a smoke advisory for Tuesday, Aug. 24. Smoke from California wildfires is expected to drift into the region and may lead to elevated concentrations of particulate matter in the air.

DES Division of Air Quality officials say smoke is made of small particles and other pollutants that can aggravate respiratory diseases such as bronchitis and asthma or heart disease. Consult your physician if you have a medical condition that makes you sensitive to air quality conditions. Under today’s conditions, it may be best for children, the elderly and people with respiratory and heart disease to stay indoors.

HELPFUL TIPS TO LIMIT PERSONAL EXPOSURE TO SMOKE

• Limit outdoor exertion on days with high levels of fine particles in the air. Exercise makes you breathe heavier and increases the amount of particulates you are likely to inhale.
• Keep windows and doors
• Consider changing your indoor air filters if they are dirty.

STAY UP TO DATE WITH AIR QUALITY INFORMATION

The Department of Environment and Sustainability monitors air pollution through a network of monitoring sites throughout the Las Vegas Valley. Data is collected from these sites and reported at our monitoring website: AirQuality.ClarkCountyNV.gov. People can stay informed through a couple channels:

• Twitter and Facebook: Read air quality updates in your Facebook news feed or tweets. On Facebook: facebook.com/SustainClarkCounty and Twitter: @SustainClarkCty.
• EnviroFlash: Receive daily text or email messages with the latest air quality information. Learn more at enviroflash.org. The Dept. of Environment and Sustainability also issues advisories and alerts for ozone and other pollutants such as dust, smoke and other particulate matters.
• AIRNow: Check air quality forecasts, current conditions and the Air Quality Index (AQI) for Clark County at AIRNow’s website.

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Weekend Smoke Advisory Canceled

Clark County’s Department of Environment and Sustainability has canceled its air quality smoke advisory, effective immediately. Originally scheduled to expire after the weekend, forecasters with the department’s Division of Air Quality said shifting weather patterns led to the cancelation.

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Air Quality Smoke Advisory Extended Through Sunday

The Clark County Department of Environment and Sustainability (DES) is extending its smoke advisory through Sunday, Aug. 22. Elevated levels of smoke due to wildfires in California are drifting into the region. According to officials with DES’s Division of Air Quality, smoke density may vary throughout the weekend with changing wind flow.

Smoke is made of small particles and other pollutants that can aggravate respiratory diseases such as bronchitis and asthma or heart disease. Consult your physician if you have a medical condition that makes you sensitive to air quality conditions. Under today’s conditions, it may be best for children, the elderly and people with respiratory and heart disease to stay indoors.

HELPFUL TIPS TO LIMIT PERSONAL EXPOSURE TO SMOKE

• Limit outdoor exertion on days with high levels of fine particles in the air. Exercise makes you breathe heavier and increases the amount of particulates you are likely to inhale.
• Keep windows and doors
• Consider changing your indoor air filters if they are dirty.

STAY UP TO DATE WITH AIR QUALITY INFORMATION

The Department of Environment and Sustainability monitors air pollution through a network of monitoring sites throughout the Las Vegas Valley. Data is collected from these sites and reported at our monitoring website: AirQuality.ClarkCountyNV.gov. People can stay informed through a couple channels:

• Twitter and Facebook: Read air quality updates in your Facebook news feed or tweets. On Facebook: facebook.com/SustainClarkCounty and Twitter: @SustainClarkCty.
• EnviroFlash: Receive daily text or email messages with the latest air quality information. Learn more at enviroflash.org. The Dept. of Environment and Sustainability also issues advisories and alerts for ozone and other pollutants such as dust, smoke and other particulate matters.
• AIRNow: Check air quality forecasts, current conditions and the Air Quality Index (AQI) for Clark County at AIRNow’s website.

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Smoke, Ozone Advisory Issued Due to Wildfire Smoke

The Clark County Department of Environment and Sustainability (DES) is issuing an advisory for Thursday, Aug. 19, for elevated levels of smoke and ozone due to wildfire smoke from Northern California drifting into the region. DES Division of Air Quality officials say smoke is made of small dust particles and other pollutants that can aggravate respiratory diseases and contribute to ground-level ozone formation.

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, people who may be most sensitive to elevated levels of particulates and ozone include individuals with respiratory problems, cardiac disease, young children or senior citizens. Consult your physician if you have a medical condition that makes you sensitive to air quality conditions.

Smoke is made of small particles and other pollutants that can aggravate respiratory diseases and contribute to ground-level ozone formation. Exposure to ozone can induce coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath even in healthy people. A seasonal ozone advisory is currently in effect.

SMOKE AND OZONE TIPS

• Stay indoors when you smell or see smoke.
• Limit outdoor activity and exertion when ozone levels are elevated – exercise makes you breathe heavier and increases the amount of particulates you may inhale.
• Keep windows and doors closed. Run your air conditioner inside your house and car. Air conditioning filters out smoke and particles.
• Change your indoor air filters if they are dirty.
• Schedule activities for the morning or evening when ozone levels are usually lower.
• Substitute a less intense activity – walk instead of jog, for example.
• Reduce driving – combine errands into one trip.
• Don’t idle your car engine unnecessarily.
• Use mass transit or carpool.
• Fill up your gas tank after sunset. Try not to spill gasoline when filling up, and don’t top off your tank.
• Keep your car well maintained.
• Consider landscaping that uses less water and gas-powered equipment to maintain.
• Turn off lights and electronics when not in use. Less fuel burned at power plants means cleaner air.

STAY UP TO DATE WITH AIR QUALITY INFORMATION

The Department of Environment and Sustainability monitors air pollution through a network of monitoring sites throughout the Las Vegas Valley. Data is collected from these sites and reported at our monitoring website: AirQuality.ClarkCountyNV.gov. People can stay informed through a couple channels:

• Twitter and Facebook: Read air quality updates in your Facebook news feed or tweets. On Facebook: facebook.com/SustainClarkCounty and Twitter: @SustainClarkCty.
• EnviroFlash: Receive daily text or email messages with the latest air quality information. Learn more at enviroflash.org. The Dept. of Environment and Sustainability also issues advisories and alerts for ozone and other pollutants such as dust, smoke and other particulate matters.
• AIRNow: Check air quality forecasts, current conditions and the Air Quality Index (AQI) for Clark County at AIRNow’s website.

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Air Quality Advisory Issued for Smoke, Ozone

The Clark County Department of Environment and Sustainability (DES) is issuing an advisory for Tuesday, Aug. 17 for elevated levels of smoke and ozone due to wildfire smoke from Northern California drifting into the region. DES Division of Air Quality officials say smoke is made of small dust particles and other pollutants that can aggravate respiratory diseases and contribute to ground-level ozone formation.

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, people who may be most sensitive to elevated levels of particulates and ozone include individuals with respiratory problems, cardiac disease, young children or senior citizens. Consult your physician if you have a medical condition that makes you sensitive to air quality conditions.

Smoke is made of small particles and other pollutants that can aggravate respiratory diseases and contribute to ground-level ozone formation. Exposure to ozone can induce coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath even in healthy people. A seasonal ozone advisory is currently in effect.

SMOKE AND OZONE TIPS

• Stay indoors when you smell or see smoke.
• Limit outdoor activity and exertion when ozone levels are elevated – exercise makes you breathe heavier and increases the amount of particulates you may inhale.
• Keep windows and doors closed. Run your air conditioner inside your house and car. Air conditioning filters out smoke and particles.
• Change your indoor air filters if they are dirty.
• Schedule activities for the morning or evening when ozone levels are usually lower.
• Substitute a less intense activity – walk instead of jog, for example.
• Reduce driving – combine errands into one trip.
• Don’t idle your car engine unnecessarily.
• Use mass transit or carpool.
• Fill up your gas tank after sunset. Try not to spill gasoline when filling up, and don’t top off your tank.
• Keep your car well maintained.
• Consider landscaping that uses less water and gas-powered equipment to maintain.
• Turn off lights and electronics when not in use. Less fuel burned at power plants means cleaner air.

STAY UP TO DATE WITH AIR QUALITY INFORMATION

The Department of Environment and Sustainability monitors air pollution through a network of monitoring sites throughout the Las Vegas Valley. Data is collected from these sites and reported at our monitoring website: AirQuality.ClarkCountyNV.gov. People can stay informed through a couple channels:

• Twitter and Facebook: Read air quality updates in your Facebook news feed or tweets. On Facebook: facebook.com/SustainClarkCounty and Twitter: @SustainClarkCty.
• EnviroFlash: Receive daily text or email messages with the latest air quality information. Learn more at enviroflash.org. The Dept. of Environment and Sustainability also issues advisories and alerts for ozone and other pollutants such as dust, smoke and other particulate matters.
• AIRNow: Check air quality forecasts, current conditions and the Air Quality Index (AQI) for Clark County at AIRNow’s website.

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Air Quality Alert for Smoke, Ozone Extended

The Clark County Department of Environment and Sustainability (DES) has extended its alert for smoke and ozone to include Sunday, Aug. 8. Due to wildfire smoke drifting into the region from Northern California, unhealthy levels of smoke are imminent or occurring. Residents are advised that smoky conditions are expected to continue throughout Sunday.

DES Division of Air Quality officials say smoke is made of small dust particles and other pollutants that can aggravate respiratory diseases and contribute to ground-level ozone formation. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, people who may be most sensitive to elevated levels of particulates and ozone include individuals with respiratory problems, cardiac disease, young children or senior citizens. Consult your physician if you have a medical condition that makes you sensitive to air quality conditions.

Smoke is made of small particles and other pollutants that can aggravate respiratory diseases and contribute to ground-level ozone formation. Exposure to ozone can induce coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath even in healthy people. A seasonal ozone advisory is currently in effect.

SMOKE AND OZONE TIPS

• Stay indoors when you smell or see smoke.
• Limit outdoor activity and exertion when ozone levels are elevated – exercise makes you breathe heavier and increases the amount of particulates you may inhale.
• Keep windows and doors closed. Run your air conditioner inside your house and car. Air conditioning filters out smoke and particles.
• Change your indoor air filters if they are dirty.
• Schedule activities for the morning or evening when ozone levels are usually lower.
• Substitute a less intense activity – walk instead of jog, for example.
• Reduce driving – combine errands into one trip.
• Don’t idle your car engine unnecessarily.
• Use mass transit or carpool.
• Fill up your gas tank after sunset. Try not to spill gasoline when filling up, and don’t top off your tank.
• Keep your car well maintained.
• Consider landscaping that uses less water and gas-powered equipment to maintain.
• Turn off lights and electronics when not in use. Less fuel burned at power plants means cleaner air.

STAY UP TO DATE WITH AIR QUALITY INFORMATION

The Department of Environment and Sustainability monitors air pollution through a network of monitoring sites throughout the Las Vegas Valley. Data is collected from these sites and reported at our monitoring website: AirQuality.ClarkCountyNV.gov. People can stay informed through a couple channels:

• Twitter and Facebook: Read air quality updates in your Facebook news feed or tweets. On Facebook: facebook.com/SustainClarkCounty and Twitter: @SustainClarkCty.
• EnviroFlash: Receive daily text or email messages with the latest air quality information. Learn more at enviroflash.org. The Dept. of Environment and Sustainability also issues advisories and alerts for ozone and other pollutants such as dust, smoke and other particulate matters.
• AIRNow: Check air quality forecasts, current conditions and the Air Quality Index (AQI) for Clark County at AIRNow’s website.

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Air Quality Alert Issued for Smoke, Ozone

The Clark County Department of Environment and Sustainability (DES) has issued an alert for smoke and ozone for Saturday, Aug. 7. Due to wildfire smoke drifting into the region from Northern California, unhealthy levels of smoke are imminent or occurring. Residents are advised that smoky conditions are expected to continue throughout Saturday.

DES Division of Air Quality officials say smoke is made of small dust particles and other pollutants that can aggravate respiratory diseases and contribute to ground-level ozone formation. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, people who may be most sensitive to elevated levels of particulates and ozone include individuals with respiratory problems, cardiac disease, young children or senior citizens. Consult your physician if you have a medical condition that makes you sensitive to air quality conditions.

Smoke is made of small particles and other pollutants that can aggravate respiratory diseases and contribute to ground-level ozone formation. Exposure to ozone can induce coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath even in healthy people. A seasonal ozone advisory is currently in effect.

SMOKE AND OZONE TIPS

• Stay indoors when you smell or see smoke.

• Limit outdoor activity and exertion when ozone levels are elevated – exercise makes you breathe heavier and increases the amount of particulates you may inhale.
• Keep windows and doors closed. Run your air conditioner inside your house and car. Air conditioning filters out smoke and particles.
• Change your indoor air filters if they are dirty.

• Schedule activities for the morning or evening when ozone levels are usually lower.
• Substitute a less intense activity – walk instead of jog, for example.
• Reduce driving – combine errands into one trip.
• Don’t idle your car engine unnecessarily.
• Use mass transit or carpool.
• Fill up your gas tank after sunset. Try not to spill gasoline when filling up, and don’t top off your tank.
• Keep your car well maintained.
• Consider landscaping that uses less water and gas-powered equipment to maintain.
• Turn off lights and electronics when not in use. Less fuel burned at power plants means cleaner air.

STAY UP TO DATE WITH AIR QUALITY INFORMATION

The Department of Environment and Sustainability monitors air pollution through a network of monitoring sites throughout the Las Vegas Valley. Data is collected from these sites and reported at our monitoring website: AirQuality.ClarkCountyNV.gov. People can stay informed through a couple channels:

• Twitter and Facebook: Read air quality updates in your Facebook news feed or tweets. On Facebook: facebook.com/SustainClarkCounty and Twitter: @SustainClarkCty.
• EnviroFlash: Receive daily text or email messages with the latest air quality information. Learn more at enviroflash.org. The Dept. of Environment and Sustainability also issues advisories and alerts for ozone and other pollutants such as dust, smoke and other particulate matters.
• AIRNow: Check air quality forecasts, current conditions and the Air Quality Index (AQI) for Clark County at AIRNow’s website.

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Media Invited to View NOAA’s Ozone Mobile Lab

Air quality specialists with Clark County’s Department of Environment and Sustainability will join scientists with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) for a “ride-along” in their mobile laboratory on Thursday, July 29 to gather data to determine the specific pollutants in the region’s air.

The Southwest Urban NOx and VOC Experiment—SUNVEx—is an ongoing study conducted by NOAA and DES to better understand the specific pollutants being generated locally that contribute to the formation of ground-level ozone. When inhaled, ozone can irritate the lungs and cause health problems in the young, elderly or those with breathing sensitivities.

“We know the basic building blocks of ozone: volatile organic compounds, oxides of nitrogen and ultraviolet rays,” said Paul Fransioli, senior air quality specialist with DES. “The SUNVEx study will identify the specific precursor pollutants in our air that contribute to ozone formation.”

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Ozone Season “Halftime” Update: Exceedance Days Increased Over 2020

Ground-level ozone in Clark County was higher during the first half of “ozone season” this year, compared to previous years, according to the Department of Environment and Sustainability (DES). From April to June, the department’s Division of Air Quality recorded 11 days when ozone levels exceeded the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s ozone standard. While exceedance days increased, the average monthly air quality index figures are consistent with ozone concentration levels in previous years. Air Quality officials cite a combination of factors for the ozone exceedances.

“Wildfire smoke, locally-produced ozone and transport of pollutants have all been factors in our exceedance days, so far,” said Paul Fransioli, senior air quality specialist. “It’s been a mix of at least two of those three elements in our exceedances this year.”

Vehicle emissions are the leading cause of air pollution in Nevada, but record-setting temperatures are also contributing to ozone creation. In addition to this summer’s extreme heat, three of the previous five years were the hottest on record for Las Vegas. Wildfires throughout the southwest have also been prevalent during four of the last five summers, including 2021.

“Transport of pollutants from elsewhere, wildfire smoke and increased heat due to climate change will require a robust, regional response to help curb air pollution,” said DES Director Marci Henson. “Our permitting and compliance enforcement actions keep our local business community operating within all federal, health-based regulations, but what happens in other parts of the country also impacts Clark County’s air quality.”

All data gathered by the Clark County Department of Environment and Sustainability's (DES) Division of Air Quality. It has not been officially verified and is subject to change. Though this is the most current data, it is not official until it has been certified by our technical staff. Data is collected from DES ambient monitoring sites and may include data collected by other outside agencies. This data is updated hourly. All times shown are in local standard time unless otherwise indicated.

DES designates April 1 to Sept. 30 each year as its “ozone season,” when concentrations of ground-level ozone are higher than during the remaining months of the year. Ground-level ozone is toxic to breathe. According the EPA’s health-based standards, an exceedance occurs when ozone particles are greater than 70 parts per billion over a rolling eight hours in a day.

How Does Ozone Form?

Ground-level ozone is formed when volatile organic compounds (VOCs) mix with oxides of nitrogen (NOx) in ultraviolet rays and heat. VOCs include fumes from fuel, paints and chemicals, and even some plants and vegetation.

Examples of NOx are vehicle exhaust, factory emissions and wildfire smoke. Stagnant weather conditions and the topographic structure of the Las Vegas Valley help trap these pollutants, causing levels to rise. Exposure to ozone can irritate your respiratory system and cause coughing, a sore throat, chest pain and shortness of breath even in healthy people, according to the EPA.

Air Quality Index

The Air Quality Index (AQI) is a measurement tool to gauge air pollution. It runs from 0 – 500 and is used to measure six pollutants: carbon monoxide, lead, nitrogen dioxide, ozone, particulate matter and sulfur dioxide. The higher the AQI value, the greater level of air pollution and greater the health concern.

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Air Quality Smoke, Ozone Advisory Issued for Weekend

The Clark County Department of Environment and Sustainability (DES) is issuing an advisory from Saturday, July 3 through Monday, July 5 for elevated levels of smoke and ozone due to local fireworks. DES Division of Air Quality officials say smoke is made of small dust particles and other pollutants that can aggravate respiratory diseases and contribute to ground-level ozone formation.

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, people who may be most sensitive to elevated levels of particulates and ozone include individuals with respiratory problems, cardiac disease, young children or senior citizens. Consult your physician if you have a medical condition that makes you sensitive to air quality conditions.

Smoke is made of small particles and other pollutants that can aggravate respiratory diseases and contribute to ground-level ozone formation. Exposure to ozone can induce coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath even in healthy people. A seasonal ozone advisory is currently in effect.

SMOKE AND OZONE TIPS

• Stay indoors when you smell or see smoke.
• Limit outdoor activity and exertion when ozone levels are elevated – exercise makes you breathe heavier and increases the amount of particulates you may inhale.
• Keep windows and doors closed. Run your air conditioner inside your house and car. Air conditioning filters out smoke and particles.
• Change your indoor air filters if they are dirty.
• Schedule activities for the morning or evening when ozone levels are usually lower.
• Substitute a less intense activity – walk instead of jog, for example.
• Reduce driving – combine errands into one trip.
• Don’t idle your car engine unnecessarily.

SMOKE AND OZONE TIPS, cont.

• Use mass transit or carpool.
• Fill up your gas tank after sunset. Try not to spill gasoline when filling up, and don’t top off your tank.
• Keep your car well maintained.
• Consider landscaping that uses less water and gas-powered equipment to maintain.
• Turn off lights and electronics when not in use. Less fuel burned at power plants means cleaner air.

STAY UP TO DATE WITH AIR QUALITY INFORMATION

The Department of Environment and Sustainability monitors air pollution through a network of monitoring sites throughout the Las Vegas Valley. Data is collected from these sites and reported at our monitoring website: AirQuality.ClarkCountyNV.gov. People can stay informed through a couple channels:

• Twitter and Facebook: Read air quality updates in your Facebook news feed or tweets. On Facebook: facebook.com/SustainClarkCounty and Twitter: @SustainClarkCty.
• EnviroFlash: Receive daily text or email messages with the latest air quality information. Learn more at enviroflash.org. The Dept. of Environment and Sustainability also issues advisories and alerts for ozone and other pollutants such as dust, smoke and other particulate matters.
• AIRNow: Check air quality forecasts, current conditions and the Air Quality Index (AQI) for Clark County at AIRNow’s website.

Applications Being Accepted for Air Pollution Control Hearing Officer

Applications are being accepted for the position of Air Pollution Control (APC) hearing officer, contracted by Clark County’s Department of Environment and Sustainability. APC hearing officers serve as independent contractors whose duties include hearing cases of alleged violations of local air pollution control regulations and other air quality-related issues. Upon determining a violation, the officer may assess civil penalties or impose other remedies. The hearing officer’s two-year term will begin Nov. 2.

Preference will be given to persons experienced in air pollution control, environmental management, engineering, law, arbitration or dispute resolution. Applicants must be residents of Nevada and shall not be employees of the State of Nevada or any other political subdivision of the state. Compensation is $70 per hour for hearing and preparatory time only. Hearing officers are required to provide a W-9 form to the Department of Environment and Sustainability prior to commencement of services.

Qualifications include a graduate of an accredited four-year college with at least five years of experience in public administration. Applications will only be accepted on the form provided, which may be obtained on the Department of Environment and Sustainability’s Hearing Board, Hearing Officers and Notices webpage.

Completed applications may be submitted electronically to aqenforcement@clarkcountynv.gov or by mailing the application to: Department of Environment and Sustainability, Division of Air Quality, Attn: Sherrie Rogge, 4701 W. Russell Rd., Suite 200, Las Vegas, Nev. 89118. In order to receive consideration, applications must be received by 4 p.m. PDT Wednesday, July 28. All submitted applications become public record and available for public review. A recommendation for selection will be presented to the Clark County Board of County Commissioners at a future meeting.

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Applications Being Accepted for Air Pollution Control Hearing Board

Applications are being accepted now for two positions on Clark County’s Air Pollution Control (APC) Hearing Board: a general engineering or building contractor licensed in Nevada, and a lay member. Each position is a three-year term and begins Sept. 21.

The APC Hearing Board is a seven-member board appointed by the Clark County Board of Commissioners. It is responsible for hearing enforcement and permit appeals, assessing civil penalties, acting on exemptions of regulatory requirements and other Department of Environment and Sustainability, Division of Air Quality (DAQ) matters that come before the board for resolution.

Applicants must be a resident of Nevada and shall not be an employee of the State of Nevada or any other political subdivision of the state. These are voluntary appointments with no compensation. The APC Hearing Board generally meets four to six times per year. Applications will only be accepted on the form provided, which may be obtained at the County’s website at this link or by calling 702-455-0354. All applications must be received no later than July 1 at 4 p.m. PDT and may be submitted electronically to aqenforement@clarkcountynv.gov or by mailing the application to: Department of Environment and Sustainability, Division of Air Quality, Attn: Sherrie Rogge, 4701 W. Russell Rd., Suite 200, Las Vegas, NV 89118.

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Air Quality Dust Advisory Issued for Thursday

The Clark County Department of Environment and Sustainability has issued a dust advisory for Thursday, May 20, to advise residents and local construction sites of the possibility of elevated levels of blowing dust due to the forecast of high winds in our area. Wind speeds of 25 mile per hour, with gusts up to 40 miles per hour, are expected today.

Airborne dust is a form of inhalable air pollution called particulate matter or PM, which aggravates respiratory diseases. Under windy conditions people with heart or lung disease, older adults, and children may feel better staying indoors as much as possible because they could be at greater risk from particulates, especially when they are physically active, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Consult your physician if you have a medical condition that makes you sensitive to air pollution.

The EPA’s Air Quality Index translates air quality data into colors to help people understand when they may experience health effects from air pollution. An AQI of 101 or more is considered a level that may be unhealthy for sensitive groups of people. Tips to limit exposure to dust include:

• Limit outdoor exertion on windy days when dust is in the air. Exercise, for example, makes you breathe heavier and increases the amount of particulates you are likely to inhale.
• Keep windows and doors
• Run your air conditioner inside your house and car to filter out
• Consider changing your indoor air filters if they are dirty.
• To keep dust down, drive slowly on unpaved roads.
• Don’t take short cuts across vacant lots.
• Ride off-road vehicles in approved areas outside the urban Las Vegas Valley.
• Call Environment and Sustainability’s dust complaint hotline at 702-385-DUST (3878) to report excessive amounts of blowing dust from construction sites, vacant lots or facilities.

STAY UP TO DATE WITH AIR QUALITY INFORMATION

The Department of Environment and Sustainability monitors air pollution through a network of monitoring sites throughout the Las Vegas Valley. Data is collected from these sites and reported at our monitoring website: AirQuality.ClarkCountyNV.gov. People can stay informed through a couple channels:

• Twitter and Facebook: Read air quality updates in your Facebook news feed or tweets. On Facebook: facebook.com/SustainClarkCounty and Twitter: @SustainClarkCty.
• EnviroFlash: Receive daily text or email messages with the latest air quality information. Learn more at enviroflash.org. The Dept. of Environment and Sustainability also issues advisories and alerts for ozone and other pollutants such as dust, smoke and other particulate matters.
• AIRNow: Check air quality forecasts, current conditions and the Air Quality Index (AQI) for Clark County at AIRNow’s website.

Clark County’s First 2021 Ozone Exceedance Registered May 14

Indian Springs monitoring station is only station in Clark County to record exceedance.

Clark County’s Department of Environment and Sustainability registered the region’s first ground-level ozone exceedance of 2021 on Friday, May 14. According to air quality specialists with the department’s Division of Air Quality, its monitoring station located in Indian Springs registered an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 108, eight points higher than allowed by the U.S. EPA’s National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS). None of the other 11 DES monitoring stations throughout Clark County registered an exceedance.

According to Air Quality Specialist Paul Fransioli, wildfire smoke in addition to ozone-producing pollutants transporting from southern California may have contributed.

“Our preliminary analysis of airflow source regions show possible influence of the Pine and Palisades fires burning north and west of the Los Angeles basin,” said Fransioli. “The ozone AQI was more than 20 points higher on May 14 than the few days before and after the exceedance.”

While ozone exceeded the NAAQS at the Indian Springs monitoring site, four additional monitoring stations also registered high concentrations of ozone on May 14.

“Ozone AQI levels reached 100 at four sites in the greater Las Vegas valley, barely missing the exceedance level” said Fransioli.”

What Causes Ozone?

Ground-level ozone is formed when volatile organic compounds (VOCs) mix with oxides of nitrogen (NOx) in ultraviolet rays and heat. VOCs include fumes from fuel, paints and chemicals, and even some plants and vegetation. Examples of NOx are vehicle exhaust, factory emissions and wildfire smoke. Stagnant weather conditions and the topographic structure of the Las Vegas Valley help trap these pollutants, causing levels to rise. Exposure to ozone can irritate your respiratory system and cause coughing, a sore throat, chest pain and shortness of breath even in healthy people, according to the EPA.

What is an Exceedance?

According to the EPA, an exceedance for ground-level ozone occurs when ozone concentrations are greater than 70 parts per billion (ppb) over the course of eight rolling hours per 24 hours in a day. As concentrations of ground-level ozone increase, so increases the Air Quality Index.

Air Quality Index

Used by the EPA to measure and report air quality, the Air Quality Index (AQI) serves as a color-coded “yardstick” that runs from 0 – 500. The higher the AQI value, the greater the level of air pollution and the greater the health concern. Six pollutants are measured using the AQI: carbon monoxide, lead, nitrogen dioxide, ozone, particulate matter and sulfur dioxide.

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Air Quality Awareness Week Begins Monday

‘Healthy Air – Important for Everyone’ is National Theme

Wildfire smoke, environmental justice and more will be highlighted by Clark County’s Department of Environment and Sustainability (DES) during Air Quality Awareness Week, which begins Monday, May 3. This year’s Air Quality Awareness Week theme is Healthy Air – Important for Everyone. DES will join the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and air pollution control agencies across the nation to raise awareness about the crucial role of air quality in the health of people and the planet.

Throughout the week, DES will highlight the following topics on its social media channels:

• Monday, May 3 – Wildfires and Smoke
• Tuesday, May 4 – Asthma and Your Health
• Wednesday, May 5 – Citizen Science and Sensors
• Thursday, May 6 – Environmental Justice and Air Quality
• Friday, May 7 –Air Quality Around the World

“Clark County’s air quality is impacted by several unique factors: our geography, topography and climate. We sit to the east of southern California and we’re surrounded by mountains. Add to that our hot, summer days and you have a perfect oven for cooking ozone,” said DES Assistant Director Jodi Bechtel. “Air Quality Awareness Week is an opportunity to showcase those unique challenges and how our Division of Air Quality works every day to monitor and regulate the permitted business community so our air is clean and healthy.”

Bechtel also points out people can help protect the air we share by reducing unnecessary idling in vehicles, utilizing public transportation and minimizing use of gas-powered landscaping equipment.

Follow DES on social media for Air Quality Awareness Week updates:

• Twitter: @SustainClarkCty
• Facebook: Sustain Clark County

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Clark County Launches Sustainability and Climate Action Dashboard

Interactive site is available at AllinClarkCounty.com

As people observe Earth Day today, the Clark County Department of Environment and Sustainability (DES) launched its online Sustainability and Climate Action dashboard. The site takes users through the five sections of the County’s Sustainability and Climate Action Plan, which outlines the County’s efforts to promote sustainable practices and climate action in its operations to mitigate the effects of climate change. Clark County’s Board of Commissioners approved the plan at its Feb. 16 meeting. The dashboard is live at AllinClarkCounty.com.

“This dashboard is designed specifically to give the community a transparent and comprehensive outline of the County’s plan to modernize its operations to address the impacts of climate change in our community,” said DES Assistant Director Jodi Bechtel. “Additionally, this dashboard provides tips and information for individuals to incorporate sustainable practices into their homes and everyday lives.”

In addition to a Virtual Earth Day section, visitors to the site may review the County’s specific plans in five critical areas:

1. Clean, reliable energy.
2. Resiliency.
3. Smart waste management and reduction.
4. Sustainable transportation.
5. Water conservation and protection.

The Sustainability and Climate Action dashboard was developed for Clark County by Kim Lundgren Associates, Inc., a consulting firm specializing in climate and sustainability issues for local governments.

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Mojave Max Has Emerged…Finally!

Local Desert Tortoise’s Emergence Marks Beginning of Spring

Better late than never! Mojave Max, the famous Southern Nevada desert tortoise, officially emerged from his burrow today at 11:34 a.m., marking the third-latest emergence for the Clark County tortoise over the past 22 years. The latest Max has emerged is April 17, 2012, at 12:41 p.m. His earliest emergence was Feb. 14, 2005 at 11:55 a.m.

Mojave Max is a live desert tortoise who calls the Las Vegas Springs Preserve his home. Like other Southern Nevada reptiles, he enters a burrow to brumate (the reptilian form of hibernation) every winter and emerges every spring. Mojave Max’s emergence marks the beginning of spring-like weather in Southern Nevada. Warmer temperatures, longer daylight hours and his own internal clock are factors known to contribute to his emergence every year.

As part of the 22nd annual Mojave Max Emergence Contest, elementary school students from Clark County, Nevada have been studying Mojave Desert weather, temperatures and conditions to scientifically estimate when they believed Mojave Max would emerge from his burrow in 2021. They entered their guesses online at www.mojavemax.com. The entries are being tabulated and the official winner of the Mojave Max Emergence Contest will be announced soon. The winning student will receive prizes including a year-long family membership to the Springs Preserve, an “America the Beautiful” year-long family pass to National Parks and Federal Recreation areas and a laptop computer. The winner’s entire class will receive Olympic-style medals and T-shirts as well as a trophy for his or her school, and a virtual field trip to the Springs Preserve to meet the live Mojave Max tortoise, while the winner’s teacher will receive a laptop computer.

“Mojave Max has typically emerged in late March and early April. We thought the warm weather last weekend would bring Max out sooner to signal the beginning of spring in Clark County,” said Kimberley Jenkins, principal environmental specialist with Clark County’s Desert Conservation Program. “As Max wakes up, we’re excited to continue educating local school children how to respect, protect and enjoy our desert.”

The Emergence Contest has taken place every year since 2000. More than 5,500 emergence contest guesses were received during this year’s Emergence Contest.

Questions about the live Mojave Max tortoise should be directed to Tom Bradley with the Las Vegas Springs Preserve at 702-822-8365. More information is available at www.ClarkCountyNV.gov or www.MojaveMax.com.

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Air Quality Dust Advisory Issued for Tuesday

The Clark County Department of Environment and Sustainability has issued a dust advisory for Tuesday, April 13, to advise residents and local construction sites of the possibility of elevated levels of blowing dust due to the forecast of high winds in our area.

Airborne dust is a form of inhalable air pollution called particulate matter or PM, which aggravates respiratory diseases. Under windy conditions people with heart or lung disease, older adults, and children may feel better staying indoors as much as possible because they could be at greater risk from particulates, especially when they are physically active, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Consult your physician if you have a medical condition that makes you sensitive to air pollution.

The EPA’s Air Quality Index translates air quality data into colors to help people understand when they may experience health effects from air pollution. An AQI of 101 or more is considered a level that may be unhealthy for sensitive groups of people. Tips to limit exposure to dust include:

• Limit outdoor exertion on windy days when dust is in the air. Exercise, for example, makes you breathe heavier and increases the amount of particulates you are likely to inhale.
• Keep windows and doors
• Run your air conditioner inside your house and car to filter out
• Consider changing your indoor air filters if they are dirty.
• To keep dust down, drive slowly on unpaved roads.
• Don’t take short cuts across vacant lots.
• Ride off-road vehicles in approved areas outside the urban Las Vegas Valley.
• Call Environment and Sustainability’s dust complaint hotline at 702-385-DUST (3878) to report excessive amounts of blowing dust from construction sites, vacant lots or facilities.

STAY UP TO DATE WITH AIR QUALITY INFORMATION

The Department of Environment and Sustainability monitors air pollution through a network of monitoring sites throughout the Las Vegas Valley. Data is collected from these sites and reported at our monitoring website: AirQuality.ClarkCountyNV.gov. People can stay informed through a couple channels:

• Twitter and Facebook: Read air quality updates in your Facebook news feed or tweets. On Facebook: facebook.com/SustainClarkCounty and Twitter: @SustainClarkCty.
• EnviroFlash: Receive daily text or email messages with the latest air quality information. Learn more at enviroflash.org. The Dept. of Environment and Sustainability also issues advisories and alerts for ozone and other pollutants such as dust, smoke and other particulate matters.
• AIRNow: Check air quality forecasts, current conditions and the Air Quality Index (AQI) for Clark County at AIRNow’s website.

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Seasonal Ozone Advisory Issued Through September

The Clark County Department of Environment and Sustainability issued a season-long advisory for ground-level ozone pollution today that will be in effect from Thursday, April 1 to Thursday, Sept. 30.

Ozone is a colorless gas that exists naturally in the Earth’s upper atmosphere. At ground level, ozone is a key ingredient of urban smog that can build up during the day in the hottest months of the year because of strong sunlight, hot temperatures, gasoline and chemical vapors, and pollutants from automobiles, wildfires and regional transport. Exposure to ozone can irritate your respiratory system and cause coughing, a sore throat, chest pain and shortness of breath even in healthy people, according to the EPA.

“Even though wildfire smoke throughout the western United States played a big part in Clark County’s ozone exceedances two of the past three years, it’s important we do everything we can at the local level to reduce ozone-producing pollutants, such as vehicle emissions and industrial pollutants,” said Department of Environment and Sustainability Assistant Director Jodi Bechtel. “Our Air Quality Division continues to enforce all federal, health-based standards to keep pollutants in check. People who live here also play an important role in reducing ground-level ozone. How often we drive, when we refuel our vehicles and how fuel-efficient our vehicles operate have an impact on local air quality.”

HELPFUL TIPS TO REDUCE OZONE

Because cars, trucks and other vehicles are major contributors to ozone, people can follow these helpful, everyday tips to reduce ozone:

• Reduce driving – combine errands into one trip.
• Don’t idle your car engine unnecessarily.
• Use mass transit or carpool.
• Fill up your gas tank after sunset. Try not to spill gasoline when filling up and don’t top off your tank.
• Keep your car well maintained.
• Consider landscaping that uses less water and gas-powered equipment to maintain.
• Turn off lights and electronics when not in use. Less fuel burned at power plants means cleaner air.

Also, if you have respiratory issues or other health concerns, consider these tips during ozone season:

• Reduce the time you are active outdoors when ozone levels are elevated, especially if you are engaged in a strenuous activity or have a respiratory disease.
• Schedule activities for the morning or evening when ozone levels are usually lower.
• Substitute a less intense activity – walking instead of jogging, for example.
• Always consult your doctor first for medical advice.

STAY UP TO DATE WITH AIR QUALITY INFORMATION

The Department of Environment and Sustainability monitors air pollution through a network of monitoring sites throughout the Las Vegas Valley. Data is collected from these sites and reported at our monitoring website: AirQuality.ClarkCountyNV.gov. People can stay informed through a couple channels:

• Twitter and Facebook: Read air quality updates in your Facebook news feed or tweets. On Facebook: facebook.com/SustainClarkCounty and Twitter: @SustainClarkCty.
• EnviroFlash: Receive daily text or email messages with the latest air quality information. Learn more at enviroflash.org. The Dept. of Environment and Sustainability also issues advisories and alerts for ozone and other pollutants such as dust, smoke and other particulate matters.
• AIRNow: Check air quality forecasts, current conditions and the Air Quality Index (AQI) for Clark County at AIRNow’s website.

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Federal Lands Bill Introduced in Senate

Southern Nevada Economic Development and Conservation Act provides “blueprint” for a balanced approach to growth in Clark County.

The Southern Nevada Economic Development and Conservation Act (SNEDCA) was introduced in the U.S. Senate today by Nevada Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto. The bill proposes protections for more than 2 million acres of sensitive lands, including beloved places like Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area and Desert National Wildlife Refuge. The bill also calls for the expansion of tribal trust lands, land set aside for more affordable housing and provides opportunities for economic growth in Clark County. The legislation was built in consultation with local, regional, and national stakeholders after years of collaboration. 

“A tremendous amount of environmental research and consultation with various community partners and experts throughout the region went into the development of the Southern Nevada Economic Development and Conservation Act bill language,” said Clark County Commission Chairman Marilyn Kirkpatrick. “I commend Sen. Cortez Masto for incorporating a balanced approach, allowing for the preservation of our critical natural resources as well as understanding the need for orderly growth.”

At its core, SNEDCA will facilitate more efficient land and water resource management, allowing for responsible and sustainable growth in Clark County that takes into account the principles outlined in our Clark County Sustainability and Climate Action Plan.

“I’m pleased to see federal legislation proposed to allow Clark County to manage our growth in an orderly manner,” said Commissioner James Gibson. “This bill provides us with the necessary tools to ensure we are meeting the demands of our citizens, including the need for affordable housing, small business growth, and accessible outdoor recreation areas for our residents and visitors while maintaining our responsibility to preserve our wildlife habitats and endangered species.”

With Clark County’s population expected to grow to nearly 3 million people by 2035, County officials were spurred into action to manage that growth in a manner that also protects our public lands, including places for recreation like Red Rock National Conservation Area, but providing permanent protection for regional wildlife habitats and endangered species. The result was and will continue to be a collaborative stakeholder-driven process that includes local governments, conservation and environmental organizations, business and industry representatives, indigenous communities and residents to develop shepherd this critical legislation through so that we can have a blueprint for Clark County’s future.

“Clark County remains one of the fastest-growing communities in the United States,” said Marci Henson, director of Clark County’s Department of Environment and Sustainability and the County’s lead on SNEDCA. “We are proud to have worked closely with Senator Cortez Masto’s office and consulted with multiple stakeholders and community representatives for years while drafting this bill’s provisions. We believe it offers the balance our county needs to meet the challenges and opportunities that face us. This legislation provides us a blueprint for our future while protecting the lands and resources that make up the fabric of Nevada.”

“We are at a crossroads in Southern Nevada where we must make smart decisions about the kind of community we want to live in and the values we stand for. I believe this legislation gives us the tools to act responsibly, taking into consideration the effects of climate change, the charge we have to protect our public lands, as well as the duty we have to ensure all of our citizens have access to economic opportunities by way of job growth and affordable housing,” said Commissioner Justin Jones. “This legislation provides a blueprint to preserve our natural resources as habitat for plant life and wildlife. It also provides a blueprint for people to continue enjoying our desert for its undisturbed beauty.”

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Clark County Goes All-In on Sustainability; Adopts Climate Action Plan

Clark County is going All-In on its response to the impacts of climate change. At its regular meeting today, the Clark County Board of Commissioners approved the Clark County Sustainability and Climate Action Plan under the new initiative: All-In Clark County. With this newly adopted plan, the County aims to promote sustainable practices and climate action in its operations so it can continue to thrive in the face of climate change.

“The impacts of climate change are very real and they are upon us,” said Clark County Commission Chairman Marilyn Kirkpatrick, Commission chair. “As a county set in the Mojave Desert, we know what’s at stake with our water and energy supply and intensifying heat island impacts. This plan recognizes those unique challenges.”

The Sustainability and Climate Action Plan objectives include:

• Promote sustainable practices and climate action within County operations.
• Develop and implement codes, policies and procedures that improve the resilience of County operations.
• Improve the County’s ability to serve the community while serving as a model for sustainable action in the region.

To accomplish these goals, the plan focuses on five key areas of operations:

1. Clean, reliable energy.
2. Resiliency
3. Smart waste management and reduction.
4. Sustainable transportation.
5. Water conservation and protection.

“Sustainability isn’t just clean air and water,” said Commissioner Justin Jones. “It’s about lowering energy costs, providing affordable housing, creating good-paying jobs and building a thriving, diverse economy and a vibrant, livable community for generations to come.”

The Department of Environment and Sustainability, which developed All-In Clark County through collaboration with multiple County departments, regional partners and consultants, will administer the plan.

The next steps for the All-In Clark County initiative are to develop a County operations implementation strategy, followed by a community-wide sustainability and climate action plan.

“We are a large, metropolitan region surrounded by a delicate ecosystem,” said Commissioner James Gibson. “It’s crucial we develop innovative solutions that preserve our resources, support responsible access to surrounding public lands and open our economy to new jobs and new industries that will propel Clark County forward. All-In Clark County is our roadmap to a sustainable future.”

Download the Sustainability and Climate Action Plan at www.AllinClarkCounty.com.

About the Department of Environment and Sustainability

The Department of Environment and Sustainability is the air pollution control agency, regional Endangered Species Act compliance program, and sustainability office for all of Clark County, Nevada. Established as the Department of Air Quality by the Clark County Commission in 2001, it was renamed in 2020 and is comprised of three divisions: Air Quality, Desert Conservation Program and Office of Sustainability. Through these three divisions, DES is ensuring the air we share meets healthful, regulatory standards, administering the County's Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan and addressing climate change.

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Clark County is a dynamic and innovative organization dedicated to providing top-quality service with integrity, respect and accountability.  With jurisdiction over the world-famous Las Vegas Strip and covering an area the size of New Jersey, Clark is the nation’s 11^th-largest county and provides extensive regional services to 2.4 million citizens and 45.6 million visitors a year (2019). Included are the nation’s 9^th-busiest airport, air quality compliance, social services and the state’s largest public hospital, University Medical Center. The County also provides municipal services that are traditionally provided by cities to 1.1 million residents in the unincorporated area. Those include fire protection, roads and other public works, parks and recreation, and planning and development.

Clark County Air Quality Year in Review

Ozone exceedance days increased in 2020, compared to 2019, according to year-end data gathered by Clark County’s Department of Environment and Sustainability (DES). What led to the shifts? Regional wildfires that sent smoke into Clark County over several days and a global pandemic, DES believes.

In 2020, Clark County recorded 15 days where ground-level ozone levels exceeded the Environmental Protection Agency’s health-based standard for acceptable air quality; an increase of 12 over the three recorded in 2019. While a governor-directed shutdown in March and April led to slight reductions in air pollution for particulate matter and other pollutants due to reduced vehicle traffic, those reductions were dwarfed by regional wildfire smoke influence.

“We were lucky to have had no wildfire smoke influence on our air quality in 2019, but 2020 was tough,” said Marci Henson, director of DES. “Wildfires are devastating in their immediate area, but as we’ve seen in two of the past three years, they can also have a big impact on the environment of communities hundreds of miles away.”

“Extreme weather and climate change are playing a significant role in our air quality,” added Jodi Bechtel, assistant director of DES, who also oversees the Office of Sustainability. “It underscores the importance of considering larger environmental solutions in Clark County and beyond if we are going to get it under control.”

Other findings from the annual review include a slight increase in total air permits written and active operating permits. Decreases were reported in calls received by the department’s hotline, inspections conducted and notices of violation. DES’s Bechtel pointed to COVID-19 restrictions as the likely factor in the decreases.

“The pandemic response has been felt by everyone and in every aspect of our local community and economy,” Bechtel said. “We’ve been able to maintain operations throughout the pandemic, maintaining fast response times to those hotline calls. Nevertheless, we recognize business operations and people’s normal routines were changed, which in turn altered how the community interacts with us.”

The department’s Small Business Assistance Program (SBAP) showed an increase in 2020 over 2019, responding to 2,129 calls from local businesses requesting assistance in completing necessary forms and inventories related to their air permits. For SBAP supervisor Richard Beckstead, the increase means the permitted business community sees value in this service.

“Our Small Business Assistance Program team works very hard to build working relationships with the permitted business community in Clark County,” Beckstead said. “That we increased our calls this year validates the work we do. Best of all, it’s a free service to permit holders.”

With an eye toward 2021, DES officials acknowledge they have to think beyond Clark County’s borders to protect the air we share.

“We will continue our efforts on the local front through permitting, site inspections and monitoring local air quality, but we don’t live in a vacuum,” Bechtel said. “The wildfire smoke we experience from surrounding states underscores the importance of developing strategies to combat climate change and extreme weather with our regional and national partners.”

About the Department of Environment and Sustainability
The Department of Environment and Sustainability is the air pollution control agency, regional Endangered Species Act compliance program and sustainability office for all of Clark County, Nevada. Established as the Department of Air Quality by the Clark County Commission in 2001, it was renamed in 2020 and is comprised of three divisions: Air Quality, Desert Conservation Program and Office of Sustainability. Through these three divisions, DES is ensuring the air we share meets healthful, regulatory standards, administering the County's Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan and addressing climate change.

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Clark County is a dynamic and innovative organization dedicated to providing top-quality service with integrity, respect and accountability.  With jurisdiction over the world-famous Las Vegas Strip and covering an area the size of New Jersey, Clark is the nation’s 11th-largest county and provides extensive regional services to 2.4 million citizens and 45.6 million visitors a year (2019). Included are the nation’s 9th-busiest airport, air quality compliance, social services and the state’s largest public hospital, University Medical Center. The County also provides municipal services that are traditionally provided by cities to 1.1 million residents in the unincorporated area. Those include fire protection, roads and other public works, parks and recreation, and planning and development.

Mojave Max Is Southern Nevada’s Punxsutawney Phil

Tuesday, Feb. 2 is Groundhog Day, which signals the unofficial countdown to spring. Here, in southern Nevada, that countdown includes the official “Mojave Max Watch.”

Mojave Max is a real live tortoise that lives at the Springs Preserve. Although the live Mojave Max is still in brumation (reptilian form of hibernation), all students from Clark County, Nevada, in grades K-5, who are enrolled in public, private and registered home schools are encouraged to enter a guess as to when they think Max will wake up from his long winter nap.

Mojave Max has hosted the annual Mojave Max Emergence Contest since 2000 and has become the preeminent indicator of spring-like weather in Southern Nevada and the west coast.

While Punxsutawney Phil is awakened in the wee hours of the morning, Mojave Max takes a more relaxed approach to signaling the beginning of spring: hit the ‘snooze’ button and emerge when he’s good and ready. What’s he waiting for? The moment when the daylight gets longer and temperatures are just right before coming out from his burrow and proclaiming spring.

Like all desert tortoises, every fall when the hot Las Vegas weather cools off, Max goes into his burrow to begin brumation. He sleeps for four or five months and then emerges sometime in the spring, signaling the beginning of the season.

Clark County, along with its partners, hosts the annual Mojave Max Emergence Contest, education programs and school assemblies in support of Mojave Desert environmental education. As part of the contest, students are encouraged to guess when Mojave Max will first exit his burrow each year. To enter the contest, you can log onto www.MojaveMax.com and click on the “Emergence Contest” button.

The Clark County student who guesses closest to the actual time of Max’s emergence, without going over, wins the contest for his or her classroom. The winning student receives his or her own laptop computer, a backpack filled with outdoor gear for exploring the desert, a laptop computer for his or her teacher, T-shirts and Olympic-style medals for the winning class, a trophy for their school, and a pizza party and field trip to the Springs Preserve to meet the live Mojave Max. The winning student also receives a year-long family pass to the Springs Preserve and a year-long pass that can be used at all federally managed fee areas.

The Mojave Max Education Program is provided by a partnership among Clark County, the Clark County School District, the Springs Preserve and Get Outdoors Nevada.

Questions about the live Mojave Max tortoise should be directed to Tom Bradley with the Las Vegas Springs Preserve at (702) 822-8365. More information is available at www.ClarkCountyNV.gov or www.MojaveMax.com.

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Clark County is a dynamic and innovative organization dedicated to providing top-quality service with integrity, respect and accountability.  With jurisdiction over the world-famous Las Vegas Strip and covering an area the size of New Jersey, Clark is the nation’s 11^th-largest county and provides extensive regional services to 2.3 million citizens and 45.6 million visitors a year (2019). Included are the nation’s 9^th-busiest airport, air quality compliance, social services and the state’s largest public hospital, University Medical Center. The County also provides municipal services that are traditionally provided by cities to 1 million residents in the unincorporated area. Those include fire protection, roads and other public works, parks and recreation, and planning and development.

Air Quality Smoke Advisory Issued Due to New Year's Eve Fireworks

The Clark County Department of Environment and Sustainability (DES) has issued an advisory for Thursday, Dec. 31 and Friday, Jan. 1 for smoke and high levels of fine particles (PM_2.5) that could occur from fireworks on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day.

Despite the cancellation of fireworks and festivities on the Strip and throughout Clark County due to COVID-19 concerns, fireworks ignited in neighborhoods by individuals can still create smoke and particle pollution. Smoke is made of small dust particles and other pollutants that can aggravate respiratory diseases and contribute to ground-level ozone formation. PM_2.5 is created by vehicle exhaust and wood smoke.

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, people who may be most sensitive to elevated levels of particulates and ozone include individuals with respiratory problems, cardiac disease, young children or senior citizens. Consult your physician if you have a medical condition that makes you sensitive to air quality conditions.

HELPFUL TIPS TO LIMIT PERSONAL EXPOSURE TO SMOKE

• Limit outdoor exertion on days with high levels of fine particles in the air. Exercise makes you breathe heavier and increases the amount of particulates you are likely to inhale.
• Keep windows and doors closed.
• Consider changing your indoor air filters if they are dirty.

STAY UP TO DATE WITH AIR QUALITY INFORMATION
The Department of Environment and Sustainability monitors air pollution through a network of monitoring sites throughout the Las Vegas Valley. Data is collected from these sites and reported at our monitoring website: AirQuality.ClarkCountyNV.gov. People can stay informed through a couple channels:

• Twitter and Facebook: Read air quality updates in your Facebook news feed or tweets. On Facebook: facebook.com/SustainClarkCounty and Twitter: @SustainClarkCty.
• EnviroFlash: Receive daily text or email messages with the latest air quality information. Learn more at enviroflash.org. The Dept. of Environment and Sustainability also issues advisories and alerts for ozone and other pollutants such as dust, smoke and other particulate matters.
• AIRNow: Check air quality forecasts, current conditions and the Air Quality Index (AQI) for Clark County at AIRNow’s website.

About the Department of Environment and Sustainability
The Department of Environment and Sustainability is the air pollution control agency, regional Endangered Species Act compliance program, and sustainability office for all of Clark County, Nevada. Established as the Department of Air Quality by the Clark County Commission in 2001, it was renamed in 2020 and is comprised of three divisions: Air Quality, Desert Conservation Program and Office of Sustainability. Through these three divisions, DES is ensuring the air we share meets healthful, regulatory standards, administering the County's Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan and addressing climate change.

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NOTICE OF PROPOSED GENERAL PERMIT ACTION

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Clark County Department of Environment and Sustainability, Division of Air Quality (DAQ) is proposing to issue a general permit for a source class relating to soil and/or groundwater remediation (SGR). Source classes are comprised of facilities that are similar in nature, have substantially similar emissions, and would be subject to the same or substantially similar requirements governing operations, emissions, monitoring, reporting, or recordkeeping.

An SGR that is a minor source of air emissions otherwise subject to the permit requirements of  Section 12.1 of the Clark County Air Quality Regulations (AQRs) could instead satisfy that requirement by obtaining authority to operate under a general permit pursuant to Section 12.11. The Control Officer has made a preliminary determination that the proposed general permit for the aforementioned source class complies with all AQRs, Chapter 445B of the Nevada Revised Statutes, and the Clean Air Act (42 USC § 7401, et seq.), and should be issued. Maximum potential to emit volatile organic compounds (VOC) for the SGR source class is 9.49 tons per year.

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that any person may submit written comments on the proposed general permit and any relevant documents to DAQ during a 30-day public comment period that starts Wednesday, November 25, 2020, and ends Friday, December 25, 2020. Any written comments must be received by DAQ at its offices at 4701 W. Russell Road, Suite 200, Las Vegas, Nevada 89118 by December 25, 2020, at 11:59 PM. Any person may request a public hearing during the public comment period, as provided in AQR Section 12.1.5.3(b), by filing a written petition with the Control Officer containing the petitioner’s name, address, daytime telephone number, email address, and reason for requesting a hearing. Comments may be submitted by mail or electronically to AQPermitting@ClarkCountyNV.gov. The Control Officer shall consider all written comments, all oral comments if a public hearing is held, and all other documents on the administrative record before taking final action on the proposed general permit.

Any person who filed a comment on a proposed general permit during the public notice period may appeal the terms and conditions of the general permit, as they apply to the source class covered under that general permit, by filing an appeal with the Air Pollution Control Hearing Board within 30 days after receipt of notice that the general permit has been issued, in accordance with AQR Section 7.10.

The draft general permit, technical support document (with determinations of any reasonably available control technology), and relevant materials considered by the Control Officer are part of the administrative record and open for public inspection. Copies may be obtained by contacting Silvia Gonzalez at DAQ’s address; calling (702) 455-5942 Monday–Thursday, 7:00 AM–5:00 PM; and on the DAQ website at: https://www.clarkcountynv.gov/government/departments/environment_and_sustainability/division_of_air_quality/permitting/public_notices.php

Published on the 25th day of November, 2020.

Theodore A. Lendis, Permitting Manager

An Air Pollution Control Hearing Officer meeting will be held on Thursday, November 19, 2020

The docket for the meeting has been posted on the Division of Air Quality website. To view the cases on the docket scheduled to be presented, please click on the link below.

Enforcement Notices

Social distancing will be practiced during this meeting. Attendees will be asked to keep appropriate spacing (six (6) feet) away from each other. The use of masks/face coverings by all attendees during the hearing is required.

In order to limit the size of the meeting, each case on the contested portion of the docket has been assigned a time to be heard.

Please direct questions about this notice to AQEnforcement@ClarkCountyNV.gov or 702-455-5942.

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Clark County Goes All-In on Tackling Climate Change

Community Input Requested with Online Survey

Today, Clark County launched All-In Clark County, its program to address climate change and create a more sustainable future for all residents, businesses and visitors. The program will be managed by the County’s Office of Sustainability—a division of the Department of Environment and Sustainability (DES)—and is a two-phased plan to assess several elements:

• Phase I: Review Clark County’s operations to determine opportunities to create efficiencies, reduce waste and utilize more clean, renewable energy. In Phase I, the County will also be funding the update to the regional greenhouse gas emissions inventory, which was initially conducted for the year 2014.
• Phase II: Development of a community-wide sustainability and climate action plan. The plan will take a smart, bold, and inclusive approach to creating a sustainable community for the well-being and prosperity of all, today and for future generations.

“By population, Clark County remains one of the fast growing counties in the United States. All-In Clark County is an important step in assessing and allocating our resources, addressing climate change and building a sustainable community for future generations,” said Clark County District F Commissioner Justin Jones. “It’s imperative to gather input from a diverse sampling of our residents and business owners to ensure we are meeting their current and future needs.”

“The good news is that all the solutions we need to endure and embrace the changes ahead exist today,” said Department of Environment and Sustainability Assistant Director, Jodi Bechtel. “With All-In Clark County, we are committing to a healthy, sustainable community for our current and future residents.”

As Southern Nevada fights to rebuild its economy after COVID-19 and anticipates adding another 750,000 residents by 2050, it does so in the midst of unprecedented threats from climate change. This challenge demands bold action to ensure Clark County’s future is healthy, livable, prosperous, and climate resilient.

ONLINE SURVEY NOW AVAILABLE

For All-In, the county is launching a robust communications program as well as seeking input from the community through an online survey where they can share their priorities and concerns as it relates to climate change and extreme weather as well as prioritize which projects the County should focus on in their own operations. The online survey takes approximately five minutes to complete and will be active through Nov. 14. The survey is also available in Spanish and Tagalog later this week. A hard copy version of the survey will be made available through the County’s website.

People can stay informed of All-In activities through the County’s social media channels and DES website: www.AllinClarkCounty.com.

About the Department of Environment and Sustainability

The Department of Environment and Sustainability is the air pollution control agency, regional Endangered Species Act compliance program, and sustainability office for all of Clark County, Nevada. Established as the Department of Air Quality by the Clark County Commission in 2001, it was renamed in 2020 and is comprised of three divisions: Air Quality, Desert Conservation Program and Office of Sustainability. Through these three divisions, DES is ensuring the air we share meets healthful, regulatory standards, administering the County's Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan and addressing climate change.

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Smoke Advisory Extended Through Monday Due to Wildfire Smoke

The Clark County Department of Environment and Sustainability (DES) is extending its current smoke advisory through Monday, Sept. 28 due to regional wildfire smoke persisting in the southwestern U.S., including southern Nevada. The smoke affects visibility and higher particulate levels at the surface.

Smoke is made of small dust particles and other pollutants that can aggravate respiratory diseases and contribute to ground-level ozone formation. Smoke and other pollutants can aggravate respiratory diseases such as bronchitis and asthma or heart disease. Consult your physician if you have a medical condition that makes you sensitive to air quality conditions. Under today’s conditions, it may be best for children, the elderly and people with respiratory and heart disease to stay indoors.

HELPFUL TIPS TO LIMIT PERSONAL EXPOSURE TO SMOKE

• Limit outdoor exertion on days with high levels of fine particles in the air. Exercise makes you breathe heavier and increases the amount of particulates you are likely to inhale. 
• Keep windows and doors closed. 
• Consider changing your indoor air filters if they are dirty.

• Twitter and Facebook: Read air quality updates in your Facebook news feed or tweets. On Facebook: www.facebook.com/SustainClarkCounty and Twitter: @SustainClarkCty.
• EnviroFlash: Receive daily text or email messages with the latest air quality information. Learn more at www.enviroflash.org. The Dept. of Environment and Sustainability also issues advisories and alerts for ozone and other pollutants such as dust, smoke and other particulate matters.
• AIRNow: Check air quality forecasts, current conditions and the Air Quality Index (AQI) for Clark County at AIRNow’s website.

Smoke Advisory Extended Through Thursday Due to Wildfire Smoke

The Clark County Department of Environment and Sustainability (DES) is extending its current smoke advisory through Thursday, Sept. 24 due to regional wildfire smoke persisting in the southwestern U.S., including southern Nevada. The smoke affects visibility and higher particulate levels at the surface.

Smoke is made of small dust particles and other pollutants that can aggravate respiratory diseases and contribute to ground-level ozone formation. Smoke and other pollutants can aggravate respiratory diseases such as bronchitis and asthma or heart disease. Consult your physician if you have a medical condition that makes you sensitive to air quality conditions. Under today’s conditions, it may be best for children, the elderly and people with respiratory and heart disease to stay indoors.

HELPFUL TIPS TO LIMIT PERSONAL EXPOSURE TO SMOKE

• Limit outdoor exertion on days with high levels of fine particles in the air. Exercise makes you breathe heavier and increases the amount of particulates you are likely to inhale. 
• Keep windows and doors closed. 
• Consider changing your indoor air filters if they are dirty.

• Twitter and Facebook: Read air quality updates in your Facebook news feed or tweets. On Facebook: www.facebook.com/SustainClarkCounty and Twitter: @SustainClarkCty.
• EnviroFlash: Receive daily text or email messages with the latest air quality information. Learn more at www.enviroflash.org. The Dept. of Environment and Sustainability also issues advisories and alerts for ozone and other pollutants such as dust, smoke and other particulate matters.
• AIRNow: Check air quality forecasts, current conditions and the Air Quality Index (AQI) for Clark County at AIRNow’s website.

• Limit outdoor exertion on days with high levels of fine particles in the air. Exercise makes you breathe heavier and increases the amount of particulates you are likely to inhale. 
• Keep windows and doors closed. 
• Consider changing your indoor air filters if they are dirty.

• Twitter and Facebook: Read air quality updates in your Facebook news feed or tweets. On Facebook: www.facebook.com/SustainClarkCounty and Twitter: @SustainClarkCty.
• EnviroFlash: Receive daily text or email messages with the latest air quality information. Learn more at www.enviroflash.org. The Dept. of Environment and Sustainability also issues advisories and alerts for ozone and other pollutants such as dust, smoke and other particulate matters.
• AIRNow: Check air quality forecasts, current conditions and the Air Quality Index (AQI) for Clark County at AIRNow’s website.

Smoke Advisory Extended Through Monday Due to Wildfire Smoke

The Clark County Department of Environment and Sustainability (DES) is extending its current smoke advisory through Monday, Sept. 21 due to regional wildfire smoke persisting in the southwestern U.S., including southern Nevada. The smoke affects visibility and higher particulate levels at the surface.

Smoke is made of small dust particles and other pollutants that can aggravate respiratory diseases and contribute to ground-level ozone formation. Smoke and other pollutants can aggravate respiratory diseases such as bronchitis and asthma or heart disease. Consult your physician if you have a medical condition that makes you sensitive to air quality conditions. Under today’s conditions, it may be best for children, the elderly and people with respiratory and heart disease to stay indoors.

HELPFUL TIPS TO LIMIT PERSONAL EXPOSURE TO SMOKE

• Limit outdoor exertion on days with high levels of fine particles in the air. Exercise makes you breathe heavier and increases the amount of particulates you are likely to inhale. 
• Keep windows and doors closed. 
• Consider changing your indoor air filters if they are dirty.

• Twitter and Facebook: Read air quality updates in your Facebook news feed or tweets. On Facebook: www.facebook.com/SustainClarkCounty and Twitter: @SustainClarkCty.
• EnviroFlash: Receive daily text or email messages with the latest air quality information. Learn more at www.enviroflash.org. The Dept. of Environment and Sustainability also issues advisories and alerts for ozone and other pollutants such as dust, smoke and other particulate matters.
• AIRNow: Check air quality forecasts, current conditions and the Air Quality Index (AQI) for Clark County at AIRNow’s website.

• Limit outdoor exertion on days with high levels of fine particles in the air. Exercise makes you breathe heavier and increases the amount of particulates you are likely to inhale. 
• Keep windows and doors closed. 
• Consider changing your indoor air filters if they are dirty.

• Twitter and Facebook: Read air quality updates in your Facebook news feed or tweets. On Facebook: www.facebook.com/SustainClarkCounty and Twitter: @SustainClarkCty.
• EnviroFlash: Receive daily text or email messages with the latest air quality information. Learn more at www.enviroflash.org. The Dept. of Environment and Sustainability also issues advisories and alerts for ozone and other pollutants such as dust, smoke and other particulate matters.
• AIRNow: Check air quality forecasts, current conditions and the Air Quality Index (AQI) for Clark County at AIRNow’s website.

The Clark County Department of Environment and Sustainability (DES) is issuing an advisory for Tuesday, Sept. 8 for continuing high levels of smoke from California wildfires, and to advise residents and local construction sites of elevated levels of blowing dust due to high winds occurring in our area. DES Division of Air Quality officials say smoke is made of small dust particles and other pollutants that can aggravate respiratory diseases. Airborne dust is a form of inhalable air pollution called particulate matter or PM, which aggravates respiratory diseases.

• Stay indoors when you smell or see smoke.
• Limit outdoor exertion on windy days when dust is in the air. Exercise, for example, makes you breathe heavier and increases the amount of particulates you are likely to inhale.
• Keep windows and doors closed. 
• Run your air conditioner inside your house and car to filter out particulates. 
• Consider changing your indoor air filters if they are dirty.
• To keep dust down, drive slowly on unpaved roads.
• Don’t take short cuts across vacant lots.
• Ride off-road vehicles in approved areas outside the urban Las Vegas Valley.
• Call Air Quality’s dust complaint hotline at 702-385-DUST (3878) to report excessive amounts of blowing dust from construction sites, vacant lots or facilities.

• Twitter and Facebook: Read air quality updates in your Facebook news feed or tweets. On Facebook: www.facebook.com/SustainClarkCounty and Twitter: @SustainClarkCty.
• EnviroFlash: Receive daily text or email messages with the latest air quality information. Learn more at www.enviroflash.org. The Dept. of Environment and Sustainability also issues advisories and alerts for ozone and other pollutants such as dust, smoke and other particulate matters.
• AIRNow: Check air quality forecasts, current conditions and the Air Quality Index (AQI) for Clark County at AIRNow’s website.

• Stay indoors when you smell or see smoke.
• Limit outdoor activity and exertion when ozone levels are elevated – exercise makes you breathe heavier and increases the amount of particulates you may inhale.
• Keep windows and doors closed. Run your air conditioner inside your house and car. Air conditioning filters out smoke and particles.
• Change your indoor air filters if they are dirty.
• Schedule activities for the morning or evening when ozone levels are usually lower.
• Substitute a less intense activity – walk instead of jog, for example. 
• Reduce driving – combine errands into one trip. 
• Don’t idle your car engine unnecessarily.
• Use mass transit or carpool.
• Fill up your gas tank after sunset. Try not to spill gasoline when filling up, and don’t top off your tank.
• Keep your car well maintained. 
• Consider landscaping that uses less water and gas-powered equipment to maintain.
• Turn off lights and electronics when not in use. Less fuel burned at power plants means cleaner air. 

• Twitter and Facebook: Read air quality updates in your Facebook news feed or tweets. On Facebook: www.facebook.com/SustainClarkCounty and Twitter: @SustainClarkCty.
• EnviroFlash: Receive daily text or email messages with the latest air quality information. Learn more at www.enviroflash.org. The Dept. of Environment and Sustainability also issues advisories and alerts for ozone and other pollutants such as dust, smoke and other particulate matters.
• AIRNow: Check air quality forecasts, current conditions and the Air Quality Index (AQI) for Clark County at AIRNow’s website.

• Stay indoors when you smell or see smoke.
• Limit outdoor activity and exertion when ozone levels are elevated – exercise makes you breathe heavier and increases the amount of particulates you may inhale.
• Keep windows and doors closed. Run your air conditioner inside your house and car. Air conditioning filters out smoke and particles.
• Change your indoor air filters if they are dirty.
• Schedule activities for the morning or evening when ozone levels are usually lower.
• Substitute a less intense activity – walk instead of jog, for example. 
• Reduce driving – combine errands into one trip. 
• Don’t idle your car engine unnecessarily.
• Use mass transit or carpool.
• Fill up your gas tank after sunset. Try not to spill gasoline when filling up, and don’t top off your tank.
• Keep your car well maintained. 
• Consider landscaping that uses less water and gas-powered equipment to maintain.
• Turn off lights and electronics when not in use. Less fuel burned at power plants means cleaner air. 

• Twitter and Facebook: Read air quality updates in your Facebook news feed or tweets. On Facebook: www.facebook.com/SustainClarkCounty and Twitter: @SustainClarkCty.
• EnviroFlash: Receive daily text or email messages with the latest air quality information. Learn more at www.enviroflash.org. The Dept. of Environment and Sustainability also issues advisories and alerts for ozone and other pollutants such as dust, smoke and other particulate matters.
• AIRNow: Check air quality forecasts, current conditions and the Air Quality Index (AQI) for Clark County at AIRNow’s website.

• Stay indoors when you smell or see smoke.
• Limit outdoor activity and exertion when ozone levels are elevated – exercise makes you breathe heavier and increases the amount of particulates you may inhale.
• Keep windows and doors closed. Run your air conditioner inside your house and car. Air conditioning filters out smoke and particles.
• Change your indoor air filters if they are dirty.
• Schedule activities for the morning or evening when ozone levels are usually lower.
• Substitute a less intense activity – walk instead of jog, for example. 
• Reduce driving – combine errands into one trip. 
• Don’t idle your car engine unnecessarily.
• Use mass transit or carpool.
• Fill up your gas tank after sunset. Try not to spill gasoline when filling up, and don’t top off your tank.
• Keep your car well maintained. 
• Consider landscaping that uses less water and gas-powered equipment to maintain.
• Turn off lights and electronics when not in use. Less fuel burned at power plants means cleaner air. 

• Twitter and Facebook: Read air quality updates in your Facebook news feed or tweets. On Facebook: www.facebook.com/SustainClarkCounty and Twitter: @SustainClarkCty.
• EnviroFlash: Receive daily text or email messages with the latest air quality information. Learn more at www.enviroflash.org. The Dept. of Environment and Sustainability also issues advisories and alerts for ozone and other pollutants such as dust, smoke and other particulate matters.
• AIRNow: Check air quality forecasts, current conditions and the Air Quality Index (AQI) for Clark County at AIRNow’s website.

• Stay indoors when you smell or see smoke.
• Limit outdoor activity and exertion when ozone levels are elevated – exercise makes you breathe heavier and increases the amount of particulates you may inhale.
• Keep windows and doors closed. Run your air conditioner inside your house and car. Air conditioning filters out smoke and particles.
• Change your indoor air filters if they are dirty.
• Schedule activities for the morning or evening when ozone levels are usually lower.
• Substitute a less intense activity – walk instead of jog, for example. 
• Reduce driving – combine errands into one trip. 
• Don’t idle your car engine unnecessarily.
• Use mass transit or carpool.
• Fill up your gas tank after sunset. Try not to spill gasoline when filling up, and don’t top off your tank.
• Keep your car well maintained. 
• Consider landscaping that uses less water and gas-powered equipment to maintain.
• Turn off lights and electronics when not in use. Less fuel burned at power plants means cleaner air. 

• Twitter and Facebook: Read air quality updates in your Facebook news feed or tweets. On Facebook: www.facebook.com/SustainClarkCounty and Twitter: @SustainClarkCty.
• EnviroFlash: Receive daily text or email messages with the latest air quality information. Learn more at www.enviroflash.org. The Dept. of Environment and Sustainability also issues advisories and alerts for ozone and other pollutants such as dust, smoke and other particulate matters.
• AIRNow: Check air quality forecasts, current conditions and the Air Quality Index (AQI) for Clark County at AIRNow’s website.

• Stay indoors when you smell or see smoke.
• Limit outdoor activity and exertion when ozone levels are elevated – exercise makes you breathe heavier and increases the amount of particulates you may inhale.
• Keep windows and doors closed. Run your air conditioner inside your house and car. Air conditioning filters out smoke and particles.
• Change your indoor air filters if they are dirty.
• Schedule activities for the morning or evening when ozone levels are usually lower.
• Substitute a less intense activity – walk instead of jog, for example. 
• Reduce driving – combine errands into one trip. 
• Don’t idle your car engine unnecessarily.
• Use mass transit or carpool.
• Fill up your gas tank after sunset. Try not to spill gasoline when filling up, and don’t top off your tank.
• Keep your car well maintained. 
• Consider landscaping that uses less water and gas-powered equipment to maintain.
• Turn off lights and electronics when not in use. Less fuel burned at power plants means cleaner air. 

• Twitter and Facebook: Read air quality updates in your Facebook news feed or tweets. On Facebook: www.facebook.com/SustainClarkCounty and Twitter: @SustainClarkCty.
• EnviroFlash: Receive daily text or email messages with the latest air quality information. Learn more at www.enviroflash.org. The Dept. of Environment and Sustainability also issues advisories and alerts for ozone and other pollutants such as dust, smoke and other particulate matters.
• AIRNow: Check air quality forecasts, current conditions and the Air Quality Index (AQI) for Clark County at AIRNow’s website.

The Clark County Department of Environment and Sustainability (DES) is issuing an advisory for Thursday, Aug. 13 for elevated levels of smoke and ozone due to the Lake Fire north of Los Angeles and other regional wildfires. DES Division of Air Quality officials say smoke is made of small dust particles and other pollutants that can aggravate respiratory diseases and contribute to ground-level ozone formation. 

• Stay indoors when you smell or see smoke.
• Limit outdoor activity and exertion when ozone levels are elevated – exercise makes you breathe heavier and increases the amount of particulates you may inhale.
• Keep windows and doors closed. Run your air conditioner inside your house and car. Air conditioning filters out smoke and particles.
• Change your indoor air filters if they are dirty.
• Schedule activities for the morning or evening when ozone levels are usually lower.
• Substitute a less intense activity – walk instead of jog, for example. 
• Reduce driving – combine errands into one trip. 
• Don’t idle your car engine unnecessarily.
• Use mass transit or carpool.
• Fill up your gas tank after sunset. Try not to spill gasoline when filling up, and don’t top off your tank.
• Keep your car well maintained. 
• Consider landscaping that uses less water and gas-powered equipment to maintain.
• Turn off lights and electronics when not in use. Less fuel burned at power plants means cleaner air. 

• Twitter and Facebook: Read air quality updates in your Facebook news feed or tweets. On Facebook: www.facebook.com/SustainClarkCounty and Twitter: @SustainClarkCty.
• EnviroFlash: Receive daily text or email messages with the latest air quality information. Learn more at www.enviroflash.org. The Dept. of Environment and Sustainability also issues advisories and alerts for ozone and other pollutants such as dust, smoke and other particulate matters.
• AIRNow: Check air quality forecasts, current conditions and the Air Quality Index (AQI) for Clark County at AIRNow’s website.

• Contact: Heather Green
• Phone: 702-203-8060
• Email: hyg@ClarkCountyNV.gov

Fourth-grade student Lillian Schern of Somerset Academy | Sky Pointe was named today as the winner of the 2020 Mojave Max Emergence Contest by the Clark County Department of Environment and Sustainability's Desert Conservation Program. Lillian was surprised by the news from her teacher, Ms. Erin Bybee. She will be officially recognized as the winner on Thursday, April 21 at 10 a.m.

This event congratulates the student who most closely estimated when Mojave Max would emerge from his burrow this year.

More than 5,500 students entered the 21st Mojave Max Emergence Contest, which ended on Wednesday, April 1 at 11:39 a.m. with Mojave Max's emergence. Lillian guessed that Max would emerge on April 1 at 11:32 a.m.

"This is the 21st year that we've had this contest, and a whole generation of Southern Nevadans has grown up on Mojave Max," said Department of Environment and Sustainability Director Marci Henson. "I want to congratulate Lillian. This contest gives all participants a greater appreciation for protecting our desert environment."

Given the unusual set of circumstances presented by the COVID-19 emergency situation, the winner's entire class will be receiving a "virtual" field trip. Staff from the Springs Preserve will give a virtual tour where Lillian and her classmates will get to 'meet' Mojave Max during the event. Local news personality and good friend to Mojave Max Nathan Tannenbaum will be online to emcee the event and the winner will receive her prizes, including: a year-long family membership to the Springs Preserve, a year-long "America the Beautiful" pass from the National Park Service to all national parks and federal recreation areas, a backpack filled with outdoor goodies and a laptop computer. The winner's teacher will also receive a laptop computer.

The Mojave Max Education Program is sponsored by a partnership between Clark County, Springs Preserve, Get Outdoors Nevada and the Clark County School District.

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Clark County is a dynamic and innovative organization dedicated to providing top-quality service with integrity, respect and accountability. With jurisdiction over the world-famous Las Vegas Strip and covering an area the size of New Jersey, Clark is the nation's 11th-largest county and provides extensive regional services to more than 2.3 million citizens and 45 million visitors a year. Included are the nation's 9th-busiest airport, air quality compliance, social services and the state's largest public hospital, University Medical Center. The County also provides municipal services that are traditionally provided by cities to about 1 million residents in the unincorporated area. Those include fire protection, roads and other public works, parks and recreation, and planning and development.

Contact: Kevin J MacDonald
Phone: 702-232-0931
Email: kevmac@ClarkCountyNV.gov

Small Business Assistance Available Throughout COVID-19 Crisis



Though the Department of Environment and Sustainability's offices remain closed to the public in keeping with Gov. Sisolak's stay-at-home order, the Small Business Assistance Program is operating remotely and available for assistance throughout the COVID-19 emergency situation.

When you have questions about your air quality forms, please call 702-239-1109 or 702-306-2299 during our normal operating hours, Mon. - Fri. 7:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. Click here for more information about the Small Business Assistance Program.

• Contact: Heather Green
• Phone: 702-203-8060
• Email: hyg@ClarkCountyNV.gov
• Mojave Max Has Emerged!
• Local Desert Tortoise's Emergence Marks Beginning of Spring

Mojave Max, the famous Southern Nevada desert tortoise, officially emerged from his burrow today at 11:39 a.m. The earliest he has emerged was Feb. 14, 2005, at 11:55 a.m. The latest he has emerged is April 17, 2012, at 12:41 p.m.

Mojave Max is a live desert tortoise who calls the Las Vegas Springs Preserve his home. Like other Southern Nevada reptiles, he enters a burrow to brumate (the reptilian form of hibernation) every winter and emerges every spring. Mojave Max's emergence marks the beginning of spring-like weather in Southern Nevada. Warmer temperatures, longer daylight hours and his own internal clock are factors known to contribute to his emergence every year.

As part of the 21st annual Mojave Max Emergence Contest, Elementary School students from Clark County, Nevada have been studying Mojave Desert weather, temperatures and conditions to scientifically estimate when they believed Mojave Max would emerge from his burrow in 2020. They entered their guesses online at www.mojavemax.com. The entries are being tabulated and the official winner of the Mojave Max Emergence Contest will be announced soon. The winning student will receive prizes including a year-long family membership to the Springs Preserve, an "America the Beautiful" year-long family pass to National Parks and Federal Recreation areas, and a laptop computer. The winner's entire class will receive Olympic-style medals and T-shirts as well as a trophy for his or her school, and a field trip, with a pizza party, to the Springs Preserve to meet the live Mojave Max tortoise, while the winner's teacher will receive a laptop computer.

"Each year, Mojave Max's emergence signals the unofficial beginning of spring in Clark County," said Clark County Department of Environment and Sustainability Director Marci Henson. "And though it is a unique set of circumstances Max is waking up to, it is still a perfect opportunity for thousands of Clark County school children to continue to learn how to respect, protect and enjoy our delicate desert ecosystem, thanks to Mojave Max."

The Emergence Contest has taken place every year since 2000. More than 5,500 emergence contest guesses were received during this year's Emergence Contest.

Questions about the live Mojave Max tortoise should be directed to Tom Bradley with the Las Vegas Springs Preserve at (702) 822-8365. More information is available at www.ClarkCountyNV.gov or www.MojaveMax.com.                    

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Clark County is a dynamic and innovative organization dedicated to providing top-quality service with integrity, respect and accountability. With jurisdiction over the world-famous Las Vegas Strip and covering an area the size of New Jersey, Clark is the nation's 11th-largest county and provides extensive regional services to more than 2.3 million citizens and 45 million visitors a year. Included are the nation's 9th-busiest airport, air quality compliance, social services and the state's largest public hospital, University Medical Center. The County also provides municipal services that are traditionally provided by cities to about 1 million residents in the unincorporated area. Those include fire protection, roads and other public works, parks and recreation, and planning and development.

• Contact: Kevin J MacDonald
• Phone: 702-455-6131
• Email: kevmac@ClarkCountyNV.gov

County Commission Approves 

At its regular meeting today, the Clark County Commission approved by unanimous vote the Department of Air Quality will change its name to the Department of Environment and Sustainability. The move comes four months after the Commission moved the County's Office of Sustainability to Air Quality. The Dept. of Environment and Sustainability is comprised of three divisions: Air Quality, Sustainability and the Desert Conservation Program.

"The Dept. of Environment and Sustainability reflects the full breadth of the work our department performs for Clark County, and to administer the County's climate change action plan," said Environment and Sustainability Director Marci Henson. "In addition to implementing the County's climate change action plan, we will continue to monitor and protect the air we share as we have in the past as well as monitor and protect our region's wildlife and plant life."

Last October, Clark County joined the County Climate Coalition last October—which will be directed by the Office of Sustainability—with a goal of reducing local greenhouse gas emissions. The County Climate Coalition was started in June 2017 by the Santa Clara County Board of Supervisors to encourage other counties to commit to uphold the Paris Agreement. The County also joined The Climate Reality Project, an organization founded by former Vice President Al Gore, to engage other counties to make the same commitment to the Paris Agreement's carbon emissions reduction goals.

Under the direction of Desert Conservation Program, the Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan is responsible for more than 600 conservation projects totaling more than $154 million, including:

• Establishment of the Wild Desert Tortoise Assistance Line. When a tortoise is found on a construction site, they call 702-593-9027 and we will safely remove and translocate it to a new habitat in the wild. Due to this program, more than 700 wild desert tortoises have been safely collected from construction sites and relocated back into the wild.
• Increased law enforcement presence, education and outreach about the Boulder City Conservation Easement, which allows for better management and maintenance of the area.
• Preservation and restoration of desert riparian habitat within the Muddy and Virgin River watersheds, which allows several bird species to enjoy flourishing habitats.

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Clark County is a dynamic and innovative organization dedicated to providing top-quality service with integrity, respect and accountability. With jurisdiction over the world-famous Las Vegas Strip and covering an area the size of New Jersey, Clark is the nation's 13th-largest county and provides extensive regional services to more than 2.3 million citizens and 45 million visitors a year. Included are the nation's 9th-busiest airport, air quality compliance, social services and the state's largest public hospital, University Medical Center. The County also provides municipal services that are traditionally provided by cities to about 1 million residents in the unincorporated area. Those include fire protection, roads and other public works, parks and recreation, and planning and development.

• Contact: Kevin J MacDonald
• Phone: 702-455-6131
• Email: kevmac@ClarkCountyNV.gov

Air Quality Dust Advisory Issued for Tuesday

Clark County's Department of Air Quality (DAQ) has issued a dust advisory for Tuesday, April 2, to advise residents and local construction sites of the possibility of elevated levels of blowing dust due to the forecast of high winds in our area.

Airborne dust is a form of inhalable air pollution called particulate matter or PM, which aggravates respiratory diseases. Under windy conditions people with heart or lung disease, older adults, and children may feel better staying indoors as much as possible because they could be at greater risk from particulates, especially when they are physically active, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Consult your physician if you have a medical condition that makes you sensitive to air pollution.

County Air Quality officials will continue to monitor conditions and will post updates on the forecast page of the DAQ website at redrock.ClarkCountyNV.gov/forecast. You can subscribe to free air quality forecasts and advisories via e-mail or text through the EnviroFlash service at www.enviroflash.org. The EPA's Air Quality Index translates air quality data into colors to help people understand when they may experience health effects from air pollution. An AQI of 101 or more is considered a level that may be unhealthy for sensitive groups of people. Tips to limit exposure to dust include:

• Limit outdoor exertion on windy days when dust is in the air. Exercise, for example, makes you breathe heavier and increases the amount of particulates you are likely to inhale.
• Keep windows and doors closed.
• Run your air conditioner inside your house and car to filter out particulates.
• Consider changing your indoor air filters if they are dirty.
• To keep dust down, drive slowly on unpaved roads.
• Don't take short cuts across vacant lots.
• Ride off-road vehicles in approved areas outside the urban Las Vegas Valley.
• Call Air Quality's dust complaint hotline at 702-385-DUST (3878) to report excessive amounts of blowing dust from construction sites, vacant lots or facilities.

STAY UP TO DATE WITH AIR QUALITY INFORMATION

The Department of Air Quality monitors air pollution through a network of monitoring sites throughout the Las Vegas Valley. Data is collected from these sites and reported at our monitoring website:

• AirQuality.ClarkCountyNV.gov. People can stay informed through a couple channels:
• Twitter and Facebook: Read air quality updates in your Facebook news feed or tweets. On Facebook: www.facebook.com/ClarkCountyAirQuality and Twitter: @CCAirQuality.
• EnviroFlash: Receive daily text or email messages with the latest air quality information. Learn more at www.enviroflash.org. Air Quality also issues advisories and alerts for ozone and other pollutants such as dust, smoke and other particulate matters.
• AIRNow: Check air quality forecasts, current conditions and the Air Quality Index (AQI) for Clark County at AIRNow's website. 

###

Clark County is a dynamic and innovative organization dedicated to providing top-quality service with integrity, respect and accountability.  With jurisdiction over the world-famous Las Vegas Strip and covering an area the size of New Jersey, Clark is the nation's 14th-largest county and provides extensive regional services to more than 2.3 million citizens and 45.3 million visitors a year. Included are the nation's 8th-busiest airport, air quality compliance, social services and the state's largest public hospital, University Medical Center. The County also provides municipal services that are traditionally provided by cities to 1 million residents in the unincorporated area. Those include fire protection, roads and other public works, parks and recreation, and planning and development.

• Contact: Kevin J MacDonald
• Phone: 702-455-6131
• Email: kevmac@ClarkCountyNV.gov

Clark County Ground-level Ozone Trending Downward

The air we share is improving in Clark County. An analysis of air quality data from 2003 – 2018 by Clark County's Department of Air Quality shows ozone exceedance days are trending downward. Last year's 35 exceedance days is a sharp decrease from 2003's 62 exceedance days. "Ozone season" for Clark County typically lasts from April 1 – Sept. 30 each year. What's leading to the downward trend? Several factors, according to Air Quality officials.

"Auto emissions continue to improve, which helps lower ground-level ozone," said Air Quality Planning Manager Mike Sword. "The Department of Air Quality also enforces strict compliance with federal, health-based standards on all permitted businesses in Clark County to ensure they are not emitting unhealthy amounts of pollutants into the air."

What is Ozone?
Ozone is a colorless gas that exists naturally in the Earth's upper atmosphere. At ground level, ozone is a key ingredient of urban smog that can build up during the day in the hottest months of the year because of strong sunlight, hot temperatures, gasoline and chemical vapors, and pollutants from automobiles, wildfires and regional transport. Exposure to ozone can irritate your respiratory system and cause coughing, a sore throat, chest pain and shortness of breath even in healthy people, according to the EPA.

What is an Exceedance?
According to the Environmental Protection Agency's health-based standards, an exceedance occurs when ground-level ozone levels are higher than 70 parts per billion (ppb) over eight hours in a day. The current 70 ppb standard went into effect in August 2018. The previous standard of 75 ppb was used from 2008 – 18.

In 2018, Clark County has had a total of 35 ground-level ozone exceedance days—an increase over the previous five years due in part to local climate as well as wildfire smoke drifting into the region. Despite the increase, 2018 is still a sharp decline from 2003 – 2007 exceedance totals, which averaged 54 exceedance days per year.

"The 70 ppb standard certainly played a factor in exceedances last year," said Sword. "Also, wildfire smoke was much higher last year in Clark County than in recent years, which contributed to about half of our ozone exceedances."

Clark County is currently in "marginal" non-attainment status for ground-level ozone—the lowest classification—due in part to the EPA's implementation of the 70 ppb threshold this summer.

"For the Department of Air Quality, this new, lower bar by the EPA simply means we have to limbo lower, which we will do," said Sword. "We beat dust and we beat carbon monoxide. Now, we will beat ozone."

Helpful Tips to Reduce Ozone

• Because cars, trucks and other vehicles are major contributors to ozone, people can follow these helpful, everyday tips to reduce ozone:
• Reduce driving – combine errands into one trip.
• Don't idle your car engine unnecessarily.
• Use mass transit or carpool.
• Fill up your gas tank after sunset. Try not to spill gasoline when filling up and don't top off your tank.
• Keep your car well maintained.
• Consider landscaping that uses less water and gas-powered equipment to maintain.
• Turn off lights and electronics when not in use. Less fuel burned at power plants means cleaner air.

 Also, if you have respiratory issues or other health concerns, consider these tips during ozone season:

• Reduce the time you are active outdoors when ozone levels are elevated, especially if you are engaged in a strenuous activity or have a respiratory disease.
• Schedule activities for the morning or evening when ozone levels are usually lower.
• Substitute a less intense activity – walking instead of jogging, for example.
• Always consult your doctor first for medical advice.

###

 Clark County is a dynamic and innovative organization dedicated to providing top-quality service with integrity, respect and accountability.  With jurisdiction over the world-famous Las Vegas Strip and covering an area the size of New Jersey, Clark is the nation's 14th-largest county and provides extensive regional services to more than 2.3 million citizens and 45.3 million visitors a year. Included are the nation's 8th-busiest airport, air quality compliance, social services and the state's largest public hospital, University Medical Center. The County also provides municipal services that are traditionally provided by cities to 1 million residents in the unincorporated area. Those include fire protection, roads and other public works, parks and recreation, and planning and development.

• Contact: Kevin J MacDonald
• Phone: 702-455-6131
• Email: kevmac@ClarkCountyNV.gov

Seasonal Ozone Advisory Issued Through Sept. 30

The Clark County Department of Air Quality issued a season-long advisory for ground-level ozone pollution today that will be in effect from Monday, April 1 – Monday, Sept. 30.

Ozone is a colorless gas that exists naturally in the Earth's upper atmosphere. At ground level, ozone is a key ingredient of urban smog that can build up during the day in the hottest months of the year because of strong sunlight, hot temperatures, gasoline and chemical vapors, and pollutants from automobiles, wildfires and regional transport. Exposure to ozone can irritate your respiratory system and cause coughing, a sore throat, chest pain and shortness of breath even in healthy people, according to the EPA.

"The Department of Air Quality is enforcing the EPA's health-based standards to minimize ozone and other pollutants, but people in our community can also take steps to help reduce ozone," said Department of Air Quality Director Marci Henson. "Filling your gas tank before sunrise or after sunset, using public transportation and avoiding unnecessary idling of vehicles are just a few ways people can help protect the air we share."

HELPFUL TIPS TO REDUCE OZONE

Because cars, trucks and other vehicles are major contributors to ozone, people can follow these helpful, everyday tips to reduce ozone:

• Reduce driving – combine errands into one trip.
• Don't idle your car engine unnecessarily.
• Use mass transit or carpool.
• Fill up your gas tank after sunset. Try not to spill gasoline when filling up and don't top off your tank.
• Keep your car well maintained.
• Consider landscaping that uses less water and gas-powered equipment to maintain.
• Turn off lights and electronics when not in use. Less fuel burned at power plants means cleaner air. 
  
  Also, if you have respiratory issues or other health concerns, consider these tips during ozone season:
• Reduce the time you are active outdoors when ozone levels are elevated, especially if you are engaged in a strenuous activity or have a respiratory disease.
• Schedule activities for the morning or evening when ozone levels are usually lower.
• Substitute a less intense activity – walking instead of jogging, for example.
• Always consult your doctor first for medical advice.

STAY UP TO DATE WITH AIR QUALITY INFORMATION

The Department of Air Quality monitors air pollution through a network of 14 monitoring sites throughout the Las Vegas Valley. Data is collected from these sites and reported at our monitoring website: AirQuality.ClarkCountyNV.gov. People can stay informed through a couple channels:

• Twitter and Facebook: Read air quality updates in your Facebook news feed or tweets. On Facebook: www.facebook.com/ClarkCountyAirQuality and Twitter: @CCAirQuality.
• EnviroFlash: Receive daily text or email messages with the latest air quality information. Learn more at www.enviroflash.org. Air quality also issues advisories and alerts for ozone and other pollutants such as dust, smoke and other particulate matters.
• AIRNow: Check air quality forecasts, current conditions and the Air Quality Index (AQI) for Clark County at AIRNow's website.

###

Clark County is a dynamic and innovative organization dedicated to providing top-quality service with integrity, respect and accountability.  With jurisdiction over the world-famous Las Vegas Strip and covering an area the size of New Jersey, Clark is the nation's 14th-largest county and provides extensive regional services to 2.3 million citizens and 45.3 million visitors a year. Included are the nation's 8th-busiest airport, air quality compliance, social services and the state's largest public hospital, University Medical Center. The County also provides municipal services that are traditionally provided by cities to about 1 million residents in the unincorporated area. Those include fire protection, roads and other public works, parks and recreation, and planning and development.

Clark County's Department of Air Quality (DAQ) has issued a dust advisory for Thursday, Feb. 22, to advise residents and local construction sites of the possibility of elevated levels of blowing dust due to the forecast of high winds in our area.Airborne dust is a form of inhalable air pollution called particulate matter, or PM, which aggravates respiratory diseases. Under windy conditions people with heart or lung disease, older adults and children may feel better staying indoors as much as possible because they could be at greater risk from particulates, especially when they are physically active, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Consult your physician if you have a medical condition that makes you sensitive to air pollution.County Air Quality officials will continue to monitor conditions and will post updates on the forecast page of the DAQ website at http://redrock.clarkcountynv.gov/forecast/. You can subscribe to free air quality forecasts and advisories via e-mail or text through the EnviroFlash service at www.enviroflash.org. The EPA's Air Quality Index translates air quality data into colors to help people understand when they may experience health effects from air pollution. An AQI of 101 or more is considered a level that may be unhealthy for sensitive groups of people. Tips to limit exposure to dust include:

• Limit outdoor exertion on windy days with dust is in the air. Exercise, for example, makes you breathe heavier and increases the amount of particulates you are likely to inhale.
• Keep windows and doors closed.
• Run your air conditioner inside your house and car to filter out particulates.
• Consider changing your indoor air filters if they are dirty.
• To keep dust down, drive slowly on unpaved roads.
• Don't take short cuts across vacant lots.
• Ride off-road vehicles in approved areas outside the urban Las Vegas Valley.
• Call Air Quality's dust-complaint hotline at (702) 385-DUST (3878) to report excessive amounts of blowing dust from construction sites, vacant lots or facilities.
  
  ###

Clark County is a dynamic and innovative organization dedicated to providing top-quality service with integrity, respect and accountability. With jurisdiction over the world-famous Las Vegas Strip and covering an area the size of New Jersey, Clark is the nation's 14th-largest county and provides extensive regional services to more than 2.2 million citizens and 46.2 million visitors a year. Included are the nation's 8th-busiest airport, air quality compliance, social services and the state's largest public hospital, University Medical Center. The County also provides municipal services that are traditionally provided by cities to about 951,000 residents in the unincorporated area. Those include fire protection, roads and other public works, parks and recreation, and planning and development.