Duncan Faircloth: “as you know, the Southern Oxidants Study has brought together 35 industrial and government organizations and 20…”

“as you know, the Southern Oxidants Study has brought together 35 industrial and government organizations and 20 universities in 21 States to study a critical economic, environmental, and health issue--the formation of ground level ozone. Ground level ozone is a problem that has plagued many areas of the United States, having a negative impact on economic growth, human health, and forest and crop productivity. In the Southeast, ground level ozone may have its root causes in environmental factors unique to my region. Because of this, the basic scientific research conducted by the Southern Oxidants Study scientists is so critical to providing policymakers with unbiased data for use in developing solutions to the problem. Not only is this information beneficial to my region, but the methodologies and knowledge gained in this study will add to ozone research nationally and internationally. The Southern Oxidants Study approach has been endorsed by the National Research Council and others and is considered a model of regional cooperation. It is imperative that appropriate funding be continued for this vital study.”