#United States #Palm Desert #South Coast AQMD #Coachella Valley #Dust Pollution

Coachella Valley Dust Summit: Tackling Dust Pollution in the Desert

On November 6, 2025, the South Coast Air Quality Management District (South Coast AQMD) will host a pivotal Dust Summit in collaboration with Riverside County Supervisor V. Manuel Perez. This event aims to bring together air quality specialists, local officials, community leaders, and residents to engage in critical discussions about dust pollution, specifically in the Coachella Valley.

Understanding the Dust Problem

The Coachella Valley, known for its beautiful desert landscape, has been grappling with dust pollution (PM10) for years. High winds often carry dust particles across the area, severely impacting air quality and posing significant health risks to residents. This pollution not only affects the health of individuals, but it also deteriorates the quality of life in local communities, making it essential to address the matter urgently.

During the summit, attendees will have the opportunity to listen to firsthand accounts from residents and local business owners affected by dust pollution. Experts will also explore the various sources of dust, its health implications, and discuss ongoing scientific studies into the matter. Furthermore, panel discussions and Q&A sessions will feature esteemed authorities in air quality research, focusing on current management strategies for dust control.

A Comprehensive Three-Part Plan

As part of the initiative to mitigate dust challenges, the South Coast AQMD Governing Board has earned approval for a comprehensive three-part plan aimed at tackling dust pollution in the region. This strategic plan involves the following components:

1. Scientific Research: A dedicated team of researchers, including faculty from UC Riverside and UC San Diego's Scripps Institution of Oceanography, will conduct field studies on dust emissions. These studies aim to analyze satellite data and utilize computer modeling to identify the primary dust sources across the Coachella Valley.

2. Targeted Strategies: Once the research yields interim and final results, specific dust control measures will be identified and assessed for their cost-effectiveness. These strategies will be customized for distinct areas, considering the types of dust being produced.

3. Implementation: To finalize the plan, South Coast AQMD will initiate funding for the implementation of dust mitigation projects in identified high-emission areas, inviting proposals that align with the established dust control measures.

The first phase of this extensive mitigation plan will commence in late 2025, with subsequent phases to follow upon completion of the initial research.

Event Details

The Coachella Valley Dust Summit will occur at 5:00 PM PST, and attendees can participate either in person at the UC Riverside Auditorium located at the Palm Desert Center or virtually via Zoom. Relevant information about the event's agenda and updates can be found on the Dust Summit website.

• - In-Person Location: 75080 Frank Sinatra Drive, Palm Desert, CA 92211
• - Virtual Access: Zoom link (Webinar ID: 161 175 7966)
• - Spanish Teleconference Dial-In: +1 669 254 5252, Meeting ID: 161 516 0458

For RSVP and media inquiries, contact Connie Villanueva at [email protected] or via phone at (909) 396-2409.

As the agency responsible for regulating air quality across large swathes of Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, and San Bernardino counties—including the Coachella Valley—South Coast AQMD continues its mission to create a cleaner environment for all residents. Stay informed about local air quality alerts and updates through South Coast AQMD's website or follow them on social media platforms such as Facebook and Twitter.