Survey to tackle Libby air problem

Libby residents are encouraged to participate in a survey on wood-stove use.

The Montana Department of Environmental Quality, the Lincoln County Health Department and the University of Montana, Montana Tech are conducting a telephone survey of Libby area residents from mid-December to mid-January.

The survey is intended to identify types of wood-burning appliances, types and amounts of fuel burned, and frequency of wood-stove use.

Air pollution monitoring for small-sized or "fine" particulates in the air has been conducted in Libby since 1999. Monitoring results for 2000 to 2003 indicate high concentrations of fine particulates that exceed public health standards.

Technical studies found that the majority of fine particulate matter comes from residential wood-stove smoke.

Inhaling of fine particulate matter is associated with increased respiratory disease, decreased lung functioning and even premature death.

Survey information will be used to better understand current wood burning practices and provide the community with opportunities to reduce air pollution caused by wood stoves while preserving economical ways to heat homes.