Multiple elements influencing the degradation of air quality in the Valley
In Fresno County, California, residents and farmers are facing challenges due to poor air quality. According to Jaime Holt from the Valley Air District, factors contributing to the lower air quality in August and September include high temperatures, wildfire smoke, and increased traffic due to the start of the school year.
Jacobsen, also from the Valley Air District, highlighted the issue of agricultural equipment contributing to the poor air quality. He mentioned the replacement of agricultural equipment with cleaner-burning engines as a potential solution. In an effort to reduce their contribution to the problem, farmers in Central California are making strides towards adopting cleaner technology.
However, the transition is not without its challenges. Jacobsen warned that too much rain on crops like grapes and raisins this time of year could lead to the loss of a significant amount of crops. He is currently looking for better equipment to reduce dust, such as low-dust almond harvesters.
The air quality in Fresno County has fluctuated between 'unhealthy for sensitive groups' and 'moderate' recently. Despite the hazy skies, people have been enjoying Woodward Park in Fresno County.
Holt explained that while plumes of dust from the ongoing harvest are less concerning than smoke, smaller, invisible particles can move deep into lungs and impact heart and brain health. He emphasised that bigger particles, which are more visible, are less harmful to health.
The Valley Air District encourages people to limit their exposure to poor air quality and offers grants for farmers to replace their harvesters with lower-dust options. Jacobsen also mentioned actual documentation showing a wine taint in wine grapes and a reduction in almond crops due to poor air quality over the past five years.
Photosynthesis in crops can be affected by poor air quality, potentially impacting the potential crop and the energy for the following year. As the valley continues to grapple with poor air quality, efforts are being made to improve the situation for both residents and farmers alike.
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