Smog chemicals found even in rural western plains

Analyses of the atmosphere over the south-central United States show that emissions from the region’s oil and natural gas industries contribute to air pollution–even over remote Kansas cornfields–that can surpass the noxious mix found in urban areas.

DON’T INHALE, TOTO. Methane in parts of Kansas and nearby states in April 2002 exceeded 2 parts per million (red), partly because of emissions from oil and gas refineries.