How's the Air?

We know a lot about Missouri’s air, but our diverse state has air challenges and characteristics that vary from region to region, county to county and even season to season. A major air quality concern in July may be minimal or non-existent during the cooler months. Some areas face constant air quality challenges all year – and some of those challenges vary.

The Missouri Department of Natural Resources is responsible for understanding the condition of Missouri’s air quality. We work to maintain the purity of Missouri's air to ensure it is healthy for Missourians to breathe. The department monitors air quality for the criteria pollutants. Measuring and interpreting air quality data is valuable to identify certain pollutants, short-term air quality threats and making long-term decisions. If monitoring data shows an area does not meet the federal standards, the department will develop state plans to address emissions that contribute to poor air quality.