SSC is considered to be in a rural area for air quality. It will probably remain rural due to NASA's restrictive easement surrounding the facility. The ambient air quality of the three southern Mississippi counties (Hancock, Harrison and Jackson) is considered to be in attainment for PM10, ozone, carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and lead. SSC has maintained compliance with its Mississippi Title V Permit to Operate Air Emission Equipment, originally issued in February 1998 and renewed in 2003. Air emissions at SSC are associated with rocket testing, diesel fuel burning equipment (generators, engines and pumps), fuel dispensing operations, HCFC usage and recovery process, abrasive blast operations, and flare stacks. Voluntary programs, initiated by the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality and implemented by NASA and other Mississippi Gulf Coast industries, have promoted measures to help reduce ground level ozone. NASA Environmental Management has volunteered to inform Stennis Space Center employees, by email, on days when ozone levels are expected to be high. These days are called Ozone Action Days. Individuals can help to reduce air emissions on these days by following any or all of the following tips: • Conserve electricity and set your air conditioner at a higher temperature. • Choose a cleaner commute-share a ride to work or use public transportation. • Bicycle or walk to errands when possible. • Defer use of gasoline-powered lawn and garden equipment. • Refuel cars and trucks after dusk. • Combine errands and reduce trips. • Limit engine idling. • Use household, workshop, and garden chemicals in ways that keep evaporation to a minimum, or try to delay using them when poor air quality is forecast. For the daily ozone forecast, click here.