The Oceano Dunes State Vehicle Recreation Area (SVRA) emits significantly more particulate matter (PM) dust than the natural background emission levels measured in non-riding dune areas. This fact is apparent in the aerial photograph (left) of the Nipomo Mesa. The visible, concentrated dust plume originates from the SVRA riding area and extends over the southwest part of the mesa. No plume is visible north or south of this. Unnatural PM concentrations are emitted from the Oceano Dunes SVRA any time there is on-shore wind. However, during periods of high wind the concentrations frequently exceed the PM10 and PM2.5 health standards established by the California Air Resources Board , and violate the San Luis Obispo County Air Pollution Control District (APCD) Rule 1001 . On June 12, 2017 the APCD Air Pollution Control Officer issued a Notice of Violation to the State Parks OHMVR Division Acting Deputy Director. PM dust pollution levels are measured by the APCD at several monitoring sites in the South County area. The data from these sites is used to issue forecast PM pollution alerts, and to document violation of air quality standards.
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Map showing the location of PM concentration measurement stations monitored by the APCD.
SLO County Air Pollution Control District
APCD Rule 1001 text, which establishes criteria for determining acceptable levels of PM emissions from the Oceano Dunes SVRA.
SLO County Air Pollution Control District
This report describes the steps taken by the APCD to meet SB 656 and develop control strategies to reduce PM from local sources.
SLO County Air Pollution Control District
Report documents results of a year long study of PM emissions on Nipomo Mesa.
SLO County Air Pollution Control District
Report summarizing Phase 1 and Phase 2 South County PM Studies. Conclusion: Off-Highway vehicle activity in the SVRA is a major contributing factor to the high PM concentrations observed on the Nipomo Mesa.
SLO County Air Pollution Control District
Report on San Luis Obispo Count air quality for 2015.
SLO County Air Pollution Control District
California ambient PM concentration health standards.
California Air Resources Board
Notice of violation letter to Deputy Director, OHMVR Division from APCD Air Pollution Control Office, dated June 12, 2017.
SLO County Air Pollution Control District
How to link to California Air Resource Board air quality database query tool and find historical PM data for South County.
California Air Resources Board
How to link to air quality alert services. South County.
SLO County Air Pollution Control District

Mesa Air Facts!

Concerned Citizens for Clean Air
INFORMATION SOURCES - NIPOMO MESA AIR QUALITY