Air Resources

For more information about National Park Service air resources, please visit http://www.nature.nps.gov/air/.

Scenic views and native vegetation images from parks within Northern Great Plains Network.

Air Quality at Theodore Roosevelt National Park

What’s in the Air?

Map of Theodore Roosevelt NP in North Dakota

Theodore Roosevelt NP, North Dakota

Theodore Roosevelt National Park (NP), North Dakota, a memorial to the 26^th president for his enduring contributions to the safekeeping and protection of our nation’s resources, has some of the best visibility and cleanest air measured among all national parks. Considering the low population density in this rural part of the Northern Great Plains, it is not surprising to discover that the park has such good air quality. However, there are some nearby and regional sources of air pollution, including oil and gas production, power plants, agriculture, and vehicles. These air pollutants can harm the park’s natural and scenic resources such as streams and lakes, plants, fish, and visibility.

How is air pollution affecting Theodore Roosevelt National Park?

Fine particles of air pollution sometimes cause haze in the park, affecting how well and how far visitors can see vistas and landmarks. more »
Nitrogen and sulfur from nearby energy development and agriculture are carried into park ecosystems and may affect sensitive resources. more »
Ozone concentrations in the park are sometimes elevated to levels known to cause injury to sensitive plants. more »
Low levels of toxics and heavy metals are present in lichens. more »

What is the National Park Service doing about air pollution at the park?

Monitoring nitrogen, sulfur, ozone, fine particles, and haze to assess status and trends. more »
Evaluating air pollution at the park. more »
Working with federal, state, and local agencies, industry, and public interest groups to develop strategies to reduce air pollution and protect and restore park resources. The NPS also reviews plans for development that may increase air pollution in national parks. more »
Replacing older and inefficient park vehicles with more efficient models and hybrid vehicles, and using automatic lights and water faucets to further reduce the park’s energy footprint. more »

Featured Content

Pollutants including fine particles, nitrogen, ozone, and mercury affect resources such as streams, soils, and scenic vistas. Find out how on our Theodore Roosevelt NP Air Pollution Impacts web page.

Studies and monitoring help the NPS understand the environmental impacts of air pollution. Access air quality data and see what is happening with Studies and Monitoring at Theodore Roosevelt NP.