The USDA Forest Service is responsible for managing the National Forests from the adverse affects of air pollution. Air pollution can harm sensitive vegetation, acidify lakes and streams, and impair the scenic vistas of America’s wildlands.

This web site provides public access to real-time air quality information collected by the Forest Service. These data are used to monitor air quality conditions in and near Forest Service managed lands with the goal of protecting, and where necessary, working to improve visibility and other resources affected by air pollution.

Daily image archives and historical image galleries depict air quality conditions from national forests throughout the United States.

Further information on air pollution causes and effects, air quality monitoring goals and methodologies, plus links to other sites of interest are also provided.