The Air Quality Program's mission is to protect, preserve, and enhance the air quality of Washington to safeguard public health and the environment, and support high quality of life for current and future citizens.

The Air Quality Program and its partners use the data collected within the Washington ambient air monitoring network to:

• Determine if air quality is meeting federal standards.
• Provide near-real-time air quality information for the protection of public health.
• Forecast air quality.
• Make daily burn decisions and curtailment calls.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of air pollution control programs.
• Evaluate the effects of air pollution on public health.
• Determine air quality trends.
• Identify and develop responsible and cost-effective pollution control strategies.

Some of the key work activities at the Environmental Specialist 3 level include:

• Reviews and issues burn permits.
• Makes daily smoke management decisions, Investigates complaints, conducts field inspections.
• Works closely with a variety of people and other government agencies.