Understanding Air Quality
Why Air Quality Matters
Air quality refers to the condition of the air around us, especially levels of pollutants that can impact human health. In Southwest Colorado, mountain valleys can trap air pollution from wildfire smoke, dust storms, home heating, transportation corridors, and other activities. These activities can cause elevated levels of particulate matter (PM), ozone (O₃), and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are linked to human health. By tracking air quality, we can identify trends and address pollution sources to support people in our communities.
Because long-term air monitoring has been limited in Archuleta, La Plata, and San Juan Counties, residents can lack the real-time information. By expanding local monitoring and sharing near-real-time data with the public, we aim to help residents understand local air quality conditions and take simple steps to stay healthy.
Current Air Quality Index (AQI) for Durango, based on EPA AirNow data. AQI shows how clean or polluted the air is and what health effects might be a concern. Learn more about the AQI.
Air Quality Monitoring in Southwest Colorado
This Project
This project expands monitoring for PM, ozone, and VOCs across Archuleta, La Plata, and San Juan Counties. Until at least 2028, we will operate five QuantAQ multi-parameter air quality monitors to measure ozone (O₃) and particulate matter (PM₁, PM₂.₅, PM₁₀). These monitors will provide near–real-time, publicly accessible data to help residents better understand local air quality conditions.
We also offer a community checkout program where additional portable PurpleAir sensors will be available for short-term use by residents, organizations, neighborhood groups, and schools to investigate local air quality. Click here to participate in our community checkout program.
Air Quality Monitoring in Southwest Colorado
Real Time Air Quality Data
The Southern Ute Indian Reservation monitors air quality underlaying the regional EPA NowCast Air Quality Index (AQI) using the AQI colors and scale, refreshed hourly. The AQI helps people quickly see if the air quality is good, moderate, or unhealth. It weighs the most recent measurements more heavily, making it useful for fast-changing conditions such as wildfire smoke or blowing dust. Checking the AQI helps you stay informed and protect your health, especially if you are sensitive to air pollution. For more information, visit AirNow.gov.
QuantAQ Air Quality Modulair monitoring system
Map of Monitors
Five air quality monitoring systems in Archuleta, La Plata, San Juan Counties to better understand local air quality. These sensors provide real-time data on key pollutants, helping residents and officials identify areas of concern. You can explore the levels of pollutants on the interactive map, offering insights into air quality trends across the region. The QuantAQ systems provide real-time data on the following parameters:
Actions You Can Take
On poor air quality days, residents can limit outdoor activity, run air purifiers, keep windows closed, and use recirculation mode in vehicles. During wildfire smoke events or dust storms, N95 masks may reduce exposure. Around the home, reducing dust, maintaining wood stoves, and avoiding burning trash help improve indoor and local air quality.
Residents can also support clean air.
Turn off your vehicle while not moving to reduce pollution and save money.
Consider buying an EV to help reduce pollution and improve air quality.
When possible, consider walking, biking, or taking public transportation.
Participate in the Community Sensor Checkout Program to monitor particulate matter and VOC in your backyard.
