CPFM Smoke Management & Air Quality 2

Question 1

Which federal agency establishes National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) that prescribed fire smoke must comply with?

Accepted Answer

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

Answer

The EPA establishes NAAQS under the Clean Air Act, setting legally enforceable limits for pollutants including PM2.5 generated by prescribed fire smoke.

Question 2

What does an Air Quality Index (AQI) value between 151 and 200 indicate?

Accepted Answer

Unhealthy — everyone may begin to experience health effects

Answer

An AQI of 151–200 is classified as 'Unhealthy,' meaning everyone may begin to experience adverse health effects and sensitive groups face more serious risks.

Question 3

What is the primary purpose of a Smoke Management Plan (SMP)?

Accepted Answer

To ensure prescribed burn smoke does not cause air quality standard violations

Answer

A Smoke Management Plan outlines strategies and procedures to minimize adverse air quality impacts from prescribed burning while still achieving land management objectives.

Question 4

Which service provides daily smoke management forecasts — including mixing heights, transport winds, and ventilation indices — used by prescribed fire managers?

Accepted Answer

National Weather Service (NWS)

Answer

The National Weather Service provides operational smoke management forecasts that prescribed fire managers rely on to assess daily burning conditions.

Question 5

What are 'Class I' airsheds under the Clean Air Act?

Accepted Answer

Pristine federal lands such as national parks and wilderness areas with strict visibility protections

Answer

Class I airsheds include national parks, wilderness areas, and other pristine federal lands where the Clean Air Act mandates special protection of air quality and visibility.

CPFM - Certified Prescribed Fire Manager Practice Test

CPFM - Certified Prescribed Fire Manager Practice Test

CPFM Smoke Management & Air Quality 2