A representative of the state Health Department says all counties in North Dakota would likely be in compliance with a proposed new EPA rule on ozone standards.
The rule would limit ozone emissions to 65 to 70 parts per billion. The current rule is 75 parts per billion. The proposed range is less than the 60 parts per billion that the environmental community had recommended.
"We have a series of monitoring stations throughout the state," said Health Department air quality director Terry O'Clair. "And ozone is pretty steady across North Dakota, anywhere from the high 50s to near 60, and sometimes we barely go over 60."
O'Clair says it doesn't matter where the monitor is -- it remains pretty steady.
"But if EPA were to pick the 60 parts per billion standard, I think North Dakota, as well as many otehr states, would have a problem meeting that standard," said O'Clair.
The EPA will be seeking comment on the new standards – and will also open comment on lowering it to 60 parts per billion.
