EPA Approves Salina, Kansas, Air Quality Redesignation
LENEXA, KAN. (NOV. 18, 2025) – Today, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has approved the State of Kansas’ request to redesignate the Salina Area from nonattainment to attainment for the 2008 Lead (Pb) National Ambient Air Quality Standard (NAAQS).
The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) worked collaboratively with stakeholders to develop strategies to reduce Pb emissions at an industrial facility and bring the Salina Area into attainment with the 2008 Lead (Pb) standard. Today’s approval, following the work by the State and local businesses, reflects the EPA’s commitment to cooperative federalism, pillar three of the Powering the Great American Comeback initiative.
“This achievement represents years of hard work and dedication by KDHE, including collaborating with a local business, to improve air quality in Salina,” said EPA Region 7 Administrator Jim Macy. “We commend KDHE’s efforts to meet their goals to deliver clean air for the community of Salina.”
“We’re proud to share that Saline County is in attainment with the air quality standard for lead,” said KDHE Deputy Secretary of Environment Kate Gleeson. “This important milestone means that the entire State of Kansas now meets all national air quality standards and reflects the dedication and hard work of our staff.”
To redesignate a nonattainment area to attainment, the Clean Air Act (CAA) requires EPA to determine the State has met all applicable requirements for the NAAQS. EPA’s final rule details how the Salina Area meets the CAA requirements for redesignation, including a maintenance plan ensuring continued compliance through 2035.
For more information on the Salina Area final 2008 Pb redesignation, visit docket number EPA-R07-OAR-2025-0693 at https://www.regulations.gov/.
Learn more about how EPA works with states to reach attainment for lead emissions.
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