PHOENIX (Dec. 21, 2012) – Maricopa County Air Quality Department
announced today, the release of a new coloring book entitled
“Winter in the Desert.” The 16-page book is designed to be used
as a tool for students to learn about air pollution, how to help
prevent air pollution and become good environmental stewards.
The book is a collaborative effort among MCAQD, Arizona
Department of Environmental Quality and Phoenix Center for the
Arts. The coloring book can be downloaded at “Winter in the
Desert” is being released at this time because the Phoenix
Metropolitan area typically has its highest levels of smoke from
woodburning fireplaces, stoves and chimineas during the holiday
season. As a result of the high smoke levels, repeated high
pollution advisories and health watches are issued this time of
the year by ADEQ and “No-Burn Days” by Maricopa County Air
Quality Department. “Everyone, including children understands
the importance of clean air,” Maricopa County Air Quality
Department Director Bill Wiley said.