Air & Water Quality
Air Quality
Summary: More than 80% of the days in Red Wing have good air quality. However, that percentage has decreased by 8% over the last 5 years, and 2.4% of days are now rated as “Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups.” This may be due, in part, to the increase in northern wildfires. Research would help us learn more so we can find ways to reverse the trend.
Details: Good Air Quality is defined as satisfactory air with air pollution posing little or no risk. Moderate Air Quality is defined as acceptable but some pollutants may pose a moderate risk to a small number of people. Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups means the general public will not be affected, but some in sensitive groups, such as those who have asthma, may experience negative health effects.
Source: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Air Quality Index, 2013-2023
Quality of Drinking Water
Summary: Our city’s public drinking water is healthy, with contaminant levels below the limits set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Radium is found at higher levels across southeast Minnesota due to our geography, but fortunately, that rate has declined recently, too. If you use a private well for your drinking water, read this information from the state on what to be aware of to ensure safe well water.
Details: Radium and Gross Alpha are radioactive contaminants found in drinking water from the erosion of natural deposits. Chlorine: Low levels of chlorine are added to drinking water to remove bacterial pathogens, but higher levels can be harmful. Haloacetic Acids & Trihalomethanes are formed during the disinfection process and can be harmful at higher levels. Testing for Haloacetic Acids happens every three years. Read more in the City’s water test results.
Source: City of Red Wing, 2023
Quality of Red Wing’s Wastewater Entering the Mississippi River
Summary: The City’s Wastewater Treatment Plant treats 2 million gallons of wastewater every day before delivering it into the Mississippi River. The City ensures all pollutant concentrations are far below the federal discharge limits. The limits are set conservatively to protect all downstream rivers, streams, and lakes.
Details: Wastewater is water that has been used by businesses and residents for everything from manufacturing and industrial processes to personal laundry, toilets, and showers. Treating wastewater before it’s delivered back into our waterways is an important part of protecting and preserving our rivers, streams, and lakes. The Wastewater Treatment Plant is located on East 5th Street.
Source: City of Red Wing, 2023
