EPA Takes On Arizona In Court Over Air-Pollution Plan

The state of Arizona is challenging an Environment Protection Agency plan to reduce air pollution in national parks and wilderness areas. The EPA has stepped in after determining the state’s plan to cut pollution wasn’t strong enough. 

The two sides will square off in the United States Court of Appeals this week. 

Attorney Michael Hiatt with nonprofit Earthjustice is representing the Sierra Club in fighting the state’s appeal. He said protecting clean air in the national parks has economic benefits.

"Visibility impairment decreases visitors’ enjoyment. They’ll take shorter visits, spend less money at the national parks and surrounding communities. So, improving visibility is important," Hiatt said.

The EPA, which cites three coal-fired power plants for causing the air quality and visibility problems at the Grand Canyon, has won similar court challenges to its regional haze plans in North Dakota and Oklahoma .