Madison Reporter

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has announced an update to its air quality data map, aiming to make it easier for the public to monitor pollution levels and remain informed about local air conditions.

According to the DNR, the revised map now features real-time data from Wisconsin’s air quality monitoring network. It uses a color-coded system aligned with the Air Quality Index (AQI), allowing users to quickly assess current pollution levels throughout the state.

Among the key changes is a new advisory banner displayed as a top scrolling bar. This feature is intended to ensure that critical updates about air quality are instantly visible when accessing the map. The DNR stated, "A new advisory banner, prominently displayed as a top scrolling bar, ensures that critical air quality updates are instantly visible."

Another addition is a "News" text box on the landing page, designed to highlight important updates such as advisories and other essential information. The department explained this enhancement: "A dedicated 'News' text box on the landing page highlights important updates, including air quality advisories and other essential information."

Navigation improvements have also been introduced. A new set of menu icons located on the right-hand side of the screen aims to provide an app-like experience by removing the need for dropdown menus. The DNR described this update by saying, "Enhanced navigation features, including a sleek set of map menu icons on the right-hand side of the screen, eliminates the need to search through dropdown menus – offering an app-like experience for seamless access."

One notable tool in this upgrade is an "Orange or Above" AQI filter. This function allows users to easily identify when pollution levels reach thresholds that could affect health. According to DNR: "A new 'Orange or Above' AQI filter makes it easier for users to quickly identify when air quality reaches levels that could impact health." This can be especially useful during events like ozone advisories or wildfire smoke incidents experienced over recent summers in Wisconsin.

The updated platform comes at a time when awareness about environmental health risks continues to grow. Recent years have seen periods of poor air quality in Wisconsin due in part to factors such as wildfire smoke drifting into the region.

Beyond using the improved online tool, residents can also subscribe via email for direct notifications about air quality advisories from DNR.

These changes reflect ongoing efforts by state agencies across the U.S., including those in Wisconsin, to enhance transparency and provide timely environmental information so communities can make safer decisions regarding outdoor activities and exposure risks.