A first round of purifiers will be distributed to seniors participating in the Meals on Wheels program in partnership with its local operators. Photo designed by Magnific

KINGS BEACH, CA (MPG) - Free air purifiers are being distributed to low-income seniors and families in the Placer County area of the Lake Tahoe Basin, with the first of 92 deliveries happening this week.

In 2023, the basin was impacted by excessive smoke from prescribed fires that caused poor air quality for several days. In response, the Placer County Air Pollution Control District held several meetings with agencies in the basin involved with prescribed fire. Following those discussions, the Placer County Air Pollution Control District, U.S. Forest Service, and Connecting Point have collaborated to implement a long-term air filter lending program to help low-income residents who may not be able to leave the basin when smoke impacts occur.

“Prescribed fire is a crucial tool for reducing wildfire risk in our communities and we welcome its responsible use,” said Placer County District 5 Supervisor Cindy Gustafson. “Excessive smoke, however, often affects our most vulnerable residents who can least afford measures to avoid it. We’re helping protect those who need it most as we all continue the important work of restoring and preserving our forests.”

The Forest Service’s Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit contributed 44 air purifiers, and the Placer County Air Pollution Control District contributed 48, funded through Community Air Protection program grant funds.

“The District supports the use of beneficial fire to help reduce the amount of material that may otherwise burn during a wildfire,” said Placer County Air Pollution Control Officer Erik C. White. “We want beneficial fire to occur in a way that does not cause smoke impacts to residents. We are pleased to support eligible residents with an air purifier to help mitigate any impacts from prescribed fire.” 

A first round of purifiers will be distributed to seniors participating in the Meals on Wheels program in partnership with its local operators. Sierra Community House will identify eligible families with children for further distributions.

The air purifier distribution is part of California Climate Investments, which uses billions of Cap-and-Invest dollars to fund projects that reduce harmful emissions, protect public health, strengthen local economies and support natural environments.  With a strong focus on communities most impacted by pollution and limited access to resources, California Climate Investments help build a more equitable and sustainable future