The Air Quality Bureau of the New Mexico Environment Department protects the public health of New Mexicans and the natural beauty of the state by preventing the deterioration of air quality
This is accomplished through the following activities:
- Air dispersion modeling is a computer simulation conducted to ensure the amount of contaminants in the air meet the air quality standards.
- Air quality monitoring is conducted to determine current and historic concentrations of pollution.
- Air quality planning is implemented to ensure that air quality standards are met and maintained
- Air pollutant information provides general information about sources of pollution.
- Compliance and enforcement activities ensure regulations and laws are followed by reviewing records required by permits and taking action when lapses are found (Environmental Protection Compliance and Enforcement Bureau).
- Diesel Emissions Reduction Act allows the Air Quality Bureau to provide funds for projects that reduce emissions from heavy-duty diesel-fueled vehicles.
- Emission inventories collect the amount of air pollutants from industrial sources in the state to ensure we make decisions based on the best available data.
- Permits for industrial sources are crafted to ensure air quality regulations are implemented fairly and consistently.
- Regulation change proposals are reviewed and implemented to enhance the air quality.
- Small Business Environmental Assistance Program provides air quality permitting and compliance assistance to small businesses.
- Smoke Management Program coordinates and permits vegetation burning using the Smoke Management System.
- Volkswagen Settlement funding is available for diesel emission reduction projects throughout New Mexico.
The New Mexico Environment Department/Air Quality Bureau has authority over air quality in all areas of New Mexico except in Bernalillo County and on tribal lands. The City of Albuquerque/Bernalillo Air Quality Division regulates businesses located in Bernalillo County and may be reached at 505-768-1972. Contact the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for air quality issues on tribal land.
Want to learn more about air quality information for your area? Visit https://aqi.air.env.nm.gov/. For updates on wildfire smoke forecasts and air quality alerts, visit IWFAQRP – outlooks (wildlandfiresmoke.net).