The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) has opened two new air monitoring stations in Framingham and Saugus to track pollution, including fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and black carbon. This is part of a larger effort to monitor and manage air quality across the state. In a press release, MassDEP Commissioner Bonnie Heiple said the program is intended to support healthier communities and improve life for residents.
With the new stations, MassDEP now operates a total of 26 air monitoring sites, many situated in areas with elevated pollution levels and associated health risks. The agency provides year-round daily air quality forecasts for fine particulate matter and monitors ozone levels, particularly during the summer. This past summer, Massachusetts experienced six days of unhealthy ozone levels and four days of elevated fine particulate matter, largely due to smoke drifting from Canadian wildfires.
In response to growing concerns over air quality, MassDEP tightened its standards for particulate pollution in September, based on scientific findings highlighting the health and climate impacts of these pollutants. In October, the agency launched a new phase of its Air Sensor Grant program, providing 370 air quality sensors to municipalities, Tribes, and community organizations, with each eligible applicant able to receive up to five sensors on a first-come, first-served basis.
MassDEP has also updated the AirNow and EnviroFlash systems to provide improved air quality forecasts. Changes to region names on the AirNow.gov website and app may require users to reset their “Saved Places,” while EnviroFlash subscribers have been moved to the new forecast regions and notified of the update, according to a press relase. Residents are encouraged to stay informed about air quality through MassAir Online, AirNow.gov, the AirNow app, or by signing up for EnviroFlash alerts. Daily forecasts for fine particles and summer ozone levels are also available via the MassDEP Air Quality Hotline at 1-800-882-1497.
