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Hydraulic fracturing, or fracking, is a method used to extract natural gas and oil from deep rock formations known as shale. Using this method, drilling operators force water, sand, and a mix of chemicals into horizontally drilled wells, causing the shale to crack and release natural gas or oil.

Read about the negative health effects of particle pollution — and find steps you can take to prevent them.

Learn how ground-level ozone can harm your health — and what you can do to protect yourself.

Air Pollutants

Find information on public health issues related to air quality, including asthma, heart disease and stroke, and more.

Air Quality and Emergencies

Drought is a natural phenomenon in which rainfall is lower than average for an extended period of time. Periods of drought can result in inadequate water supply and can lead to public health problems. Take action and learn how drought can impact your health and the health of your family.

Dry conditions in parts of the United States increase the potential for wildfires in or near wilderness areas. Stay alert for wildfire warnings and take action to protect yourself and your family from wildfire smoke.