Clearing the Air

Clearing the Air. . Take in the incredible scenery and sweeping vistas. What you don't see is one of the park's most valuable resources - clean air. Take a deep breath. Within six minutes of being deprived of air we start to die. Air is essential to life. , We share the air. We can help or harm its quality. The U.S. Clean Air Act was signed into law in 1963 with the goal of controlling air pollution at a national level. In 1977, Capitol Reef was designated a Class I airshed, recognizing its exceptional quality and receiving the highest protection. , Pollution has many sources including power plant emissions, vehicle exhaust, wood smoke from campfires or stoves, and refineries. We share the negative impacts, such as the loss of the scenic views we treasure, increased eye irritation, and damage to our lungs. The National Park Service has the responsibility to preserve, protect, and enhance air quality., We share the responsibility to keep air clean. You can help everyday by: using sustainable energy sources such as solar and wind; reducing vehicle emissions by using fuel efficient vehicles and not idling; using less electricity; and choosing to walk, bike, or bus rather than driving., [Caption]: Air pollution knows no boundaries. Even the seemingly pristine areas of Capitol Reef's wilderness are affected by changes in air quality. , [Caption]: The slightest changes in pollutant levels are detected at Capitol Reef's air quality monitoring station.