Press Release

Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment notifies of potential health risks associated with home fire debris

Remote, Jan 3: After the devastating fires this past week, the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment recognizes that people are eager to return to their homes to see what can be recovered. Remember to stay out of the area until Boulder officials allow re-entry for your neighborhood. Please wait to be notified by your local city or county for guidance about entering your property. When you are permitted to re-enter, you should be aware of the immediate and long-term health risks associated with exposure to home fire ash and debris. 

Air Quality Control Commission approves state health department proposal to continue reducing regional haze and improving visibility in Colorado’s national parks

REMOTE (Dec. 20): The Colorado Air Quality Control Commission has given final approval to a set of proposals from the Department of Public Health and Environment that would further reduce pollution and subsequent haze at Colorado’s treasured national parks. The state has already achieved tens of thousands of tons of emissions reductions, staying ahead of its scheduled plan. 

State health department investigating an elevated benzene measurement

(REMOTE, Dec. 15, 2021) The Colorado Air Monitoring Mobile Lab measured a level of benzene slightly above the health guideline value during community monitoring of oil and gas activity in Weld County last week. The measurement does not reflect an immediate health risk to nearby residents but indicates a need for further investigation. CDPHE will conduct an investigation with the assistance of the Colorado Oil and Gas Conservation Commission.