A reporter learns the importance of telling stories for communities rather than about them.
Project: Clouded in Crisis: The search for solutions to help Nipomo Mesa communities breathe better air
Exposure to air pollution has long been a public health issue for people in South San Luis Obispo County.
The more people are exposed to poor air quality on the Mesa, the sicker they become over time — dealing with allergy symptoms, breathing issues and, for some, even lung disease.
Project: Clouded in Crisis: The roadblocks keeping pollutant exposure high and disease prevention low
Air pollution from blowing dust on the Nipomo Mesa is hitting people of color and low-income folks especially hard.
Public health officials have known for years that air quality year-round is often poor on the Nipomo Mesa in South San Luis Obispo County. It can cause severe health issues for people in the area — especially people of color and those with low incomes.