From the Iowa Department of Natural Resources

Exceedances of the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) for fine particulates are expected today over most of the state. Smoke from wildfires in Northwestern Canada has converged over Iowa and is expected to lead to fine particulate matter exceedances over most of the state today. The smoke is expected to remain over the area and affect air quality in the coming days until a significant weather system sweeps it out of the area. Wildfire smoke carries large amounts of particulates as well as gases that may act as ozone precursors and can lead to exceedances of the NAAQS for both fine particulate matter and ozone.

The national standard for fine particulate matter is 35 micrograms per cubic meter (µg/m3) averaged over a 24-hour period, and this level is considered “unhealthy for sensitive groups.” Groups sensitive to particulate matter include people with heart or lung disease, older adults, children and teenagers, and outdoor workers. Fine particulate levels will likely reach levels considered “unhealthy” where even healthy adults should consider limiting their activities.

Real-time air quality maps and information about the air quality index can be found on EPA’s airnow.gov site. A graphic approximation of the extent and trajectory of the smoke plume can be seen on the map at fire.airnow.gov. EPA’s specific guidelines on what precautions can be taken to minimize the impact of high ozone and fine particulate levels are available at https://www.airnow.gov/publications/activity-guides-publications/. Generally speaking, they involve limiting outdoor activities, especially prolonged outdoor exertion.

Special to the Times Vedette

A special meeting of the LPA Board of Directors will be held at 5 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 5 at the Captain’s Pick at the Lake Panorama National Resort, 5071 Cover Ridge Road, Panora. The purpose of this meeting is to hold a public hearing regarding the proposed development of Lot 7000, which is currently occupied by the Port and Lakeside Inn.

In recent communication from the Lake Panorama Association to its members, more details on the proposed project were shared.

The LPA board of directors has been asked to approve a proposal from LPA member and project developer Rob Manning, who proposes purchasing the property from Menadue Development, demolishing all existing structures, and then creating a five-floor condo and restaurant facility. The development proposes 16 condos, which would range from approximately 1,950 square feet to 2,500 square feet each. The restaurant is planned to be 4,500 square feet and serve the public with both indoor and outdoor options for dining and beverage service. The proposal includes a 30-feet x 100-feet detached garage.

Details about the proposed development will be presented at the meeting including a proposed strategy for the docking of boats owned by both condo owners and restaurant patrons.

LPA members are invited to attend the public hearing, where an overview of the project will be presented and an opportunity for public comment will be provided. Members who are unable to attend in-person can submit input via email to lpa@lakepanorama.org.

Following the public hearing, the board of directors has the option to approve, disapprove or table its final decision on this proposed project.