The American Lung Association recently released its “State of the Air” Annual Report for 2021, giving North Dakota “A” grades for lack of ozone, also known as smog.

Bismarck was ranked as one of the cleanest cities for its lack of ozone and 14^th out of the top 25 cities for low, year-round particulate levels. In addition, Fargo was also among the top-ranked cleanest cities for lack of ozone.

Utilities in North Dakota have invested more than $2 billion in technology to protect the environment and spend about $100 million annually to operate it.

The American Lung Association is not alone in its assessment of North Dakota’s air quality. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has also designated North Dakota as one of only 17 states to meet all of the nation’s strict federal ambient air quality standards.

The American Lung Association’s State of the Air Report can be found at http://www.stateoftheair.org/