Beyond the Dust: Science, Impacts and Solutions

Researchers, Air Quality Regulators and Water Leaders Examine the Science and Solutions Behind Great Salt Lake Dust

Salt Lake City, UT – The Great Salt Lake Alliance will host a Solutions Series panel examining what current research shows about Great Salt Lake dust: which areas of exposed lakebed produce it, where it travels, what it contains and how it compares with other air-quality challenges along the Wasatch Front. Panelists from state government, municipal water management and higher education will distinguish established findings from open research questions and discuss approaches to monitoring, prioritizing and reducing dust.

Panelists:

• Bryce Bird, Utah Division of Air Quality
• Laura Briefer, Director, Salt Lake City Department of Public Utilities
• Derek Mallia, Department of Atmospheric Sciences, University of Utah
• David Parrott, Great Salt Lake Institute, Westminster University

When: Monday, October 5, 12 pm–1:30 pm

Where: Founders Room, Zions Bank Building, 1 South Main Street, Salt Lake City (Public and Media must RSVP, space is limited.)

Attention to Great Salt Lake dust has increased following a July dust event along the Wasatch Front and a September study examining the potential costs associated with both dust exposure and mitigation. At the same time, expanded community monitoring, source-tracking research and the state’s assessment of dust-control options are giving researchers and decision-makers more precise information. This discussion will provide timely insight into how improved data can help target action on exposed lakebed and how water policy, research and air-quality management connect.