MISSOULA — The first steps at implementing a sweeping plan to help Missoula adapt to a changing climate begins Tuesday evening, as Missoula planners head what the public thinks about the plan.
While Missoula's air quality is vastly improved from 40-years ago, there are still periods when forest fires, and winter air inversions push warnings to "unhealthy levels."
In fact, the summer fire smoke has kept Missoula toward the top of the list of small cities with serious air quality concerns.
Concerns about a warming climate, and growth in the valley, have prompted development of the "Climate Ready Missoula" Plan.
Prepared by Climate Smart Missoula, the plan was released last month, and has already seen some revisions.
The Missoula Consolidated Planning Board will take public comment on the plan Monday evening as they review how the objectives line up with existing city and county growth policies.
The public hearing starts at 7 p.m. in the Missoula City Council chambers. Written comments may also be submitted via email.
