Air Quality Program

Particulate Matter

Fine particulate matter less than 10 microns in diameter, called PM-10, is more likely to cause adverse health effects than larger particles. PM-10 particles, which are about one-tenth the diameter of a human hair, can be inhaled deeply into the lungs. Anchorage sometimes exceeds federal air quality standards for PM-10, especially during spring break-up period and again in the late fall. Most PM-10 in Anchorage comes from earth crustal sources. Dust from paved and unpaved roads, unvegetated lots and natural sources like volcanoes, glacial silt and forest fires contribute to PM-10 problems.

Assessment of Best Management Practices for Particulate Matter (PM-10) Control


Wind blown dust in south Anchorage, Alaska