It’s About to be Fall, Y’All!
Hi friends! 👋 Fall is right around the corner – and hopefully, so is cooler weather! But did you know that just because the temperature drops, it doesn’t mean the air pollution drops? Cooler weather doesn’t always equal cleaner air.
When gas emissions from trucks and cars mix with the sun’s strong rays, they form ground-level ozone air pollution, also called smog. Even though Spare The Air is May through October, smog can happen anytime, especially here in the Sacramento region. Our long, sunny summers and bowl-shaped valley can trap pollution in the air.
That’s why it’s important to ask a grown-up to check the daily Air Quality Index (AQI) before heading outside to play. (You can also remind them to sign up for Air Alert so they get the AQI forecast sent right to their inbox!)
Here are some of my favorite fall activities that are fun and help Spare The Air:
🌽 Not Haze, a Maize Maze!
Corn mazes are perfect for spooky season! Look for a maze that’s close to home and ask your friends to carpool. Walking through twisty paths is a fun way to get exercise and are a perfect fall activity!
🎃 Visit a Local Pumpkin Patch
Pumpkin patches are the best—and many are nearby! Walk, bike, or roll with your friends or family to find your perfect pumpkin! You’ll support local farmers while helping reduce pollution from long-distance shipping.
🍁 Go For a Nature Walk
The fall leaves are beautiful this time of year. Instead of driving to see them, ask your family to take a walk or ride bikes around your neighborhood. Don’t forget your helmet!
🌳 It’s a Breeze to Care for Your Trees
Caring for your trees is important no matter what time of year it is! Trees help filter air pollution, provide shade, and make our neighborhoods beautiful. Fall is a great time to learn how to water deeply, spread mulch, and prune with a grown-up’s help.
Check out my recent video, Learn How to Garden Green, for more tips!
🥕 Forecast Next Year’s Garden
Grab some paper and pencils to plan a design with water-wise and native plants. Who knows—you might even grow your own pumpkins for next year’s Halloween! 🎃
Every small choice—walking, biking, carpooling, or taking the bus—helps keep our air healthy to breathe. Together, we can make sure fall is full of fresh air and fun!
Until next time,
Scooter
