Air Quality_Content Page_May is Clean Air Month

May is Clean Air Month

An Opportunity To Become ‘Air Aware’

Clean air is important to human and ecosystem health. Poor air quality can affect people of all ages, especially those sensitive to air pollution, including people with asthma or heart conditions, people who work and exercise outdoors, and older adults and children. Each May, the DNR asks the public to use Clean Air Month to become 'Air Aware'. 

The DNR works closely with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), research and scientific organizations, businesses and non-profits to reduce air emissions and improve air quality across the state. Reducing emissions from vehicles, and electric and gas utilities, to name a few, play a large role in air quality improvements. Individuals can also play a role in protecting and improving air quality.

Current Air Quality Challenges

Over the last several decades, air quality across Wisconsin has significantly improved. In recent years however, that trend has slowed. Recent rollbacks of federal emission control rules will make it even more difficult to achieve important emissions reductions and protect public health across the state. Read more about this topic in this year’s Clean Air Month news release.

Public Involvement

View air quality data anytime by using the DNR’s recently updated Air Quality map. The map displays real-time data from the state’s air quality monitoring network and provides a color-coded guide to pollution levels based on the Air Quality Index (AQI).

View air pollution trends in the DNR’s Air Quality Trends Report and StoryMap. The StoryMap is an interactive tool used to help visually display information. Rather than scroll through pages of data and graphs, users can explore the statewide monitoring network and use interactive maps to navigate through 20 years of air monitoring data.

Find public input opportunities on the Air Permit Public Involvement webpage. The public can easily view air permit application information, air public hearing dates and access to air permit documents right from the webpage as well as access permit specific resources and documents.

DNR Podcast and Videos

Get Involved

Get outside, get creative and have fun this Clean Air Month.

  • Plant a tree! A healthy tree in your yard could reduce particulate matter indoors by as much as 60%! Learn more on DNR’s Urban Forestry webpage.
  • Do a little, save a lot! Get tips on saving energy and improving air quality.
  • Access publications and other resources for children, teachers and adults on Air education and outreach
  • Download the Clean Air Bingo activity and help improve the air quality around your home and neighborhood all month long. If you find activities you like, incorporate them into your regular routines for year-round air quality improvements!

Stay Informed

Visit these pages and tools for more information and to sign up for notifications related to air quality in Wisconsin.

  • Current Wisconsin statewide air quality - The DNR uses weather forecasts and data from air monitoring sites to determine air quality in the state and notifies residents when pollutants reach unhealthy levels for sensitive groups such as asthmatics, children and older adults. The site includes an air quality mapping tool for the public to get up-to-date air quality information, report options and specific monitor information.
  • Review the Air Quality Trends in Wisconsin and read DNR’s latest report.
  • Visit the EPA/NOAA webpage on Air Quality Awareness week for resources and topic learning.
  • Sign up for newsletters and notifications - The DNR uses GovDelivery to efficiently manage communications and offer more subscription options to DNR customers.
  • Read the Air, Air Everywhere Poetry Contest winning poems. This year’s winner will be announced in a few weeks on the Air, Air Everywhere poetry contest webpage.