(Bismarck, ND) — The latest American Lung Association “State of the Air” report ranks the Bismarck area as one of the most polluted places in the country when it comes to daily particle pollution. Bismarck placed ninth in the report, while Minot tied for eleventh with Pittsburgh and Detroit. Daily particle pollution refers to microscopic particles that can be inhaled and are linked to cardiovascular and respiratory problems. It’s a big change from ten years ago, when North Dakota was known for having some of the cleanest air in the country. The reason for the pollution? Smoke from recent wildfires, a lot of which comes from Canada. Air monitors say the pollution is the worst during wildfire season from May until October. The rest of the year, the air we breathe is relatively clean.
