The objective of this project was to assess the impact of swine production on ambient air quality as it related to public health in rural communities. More specifically, the objective was to measure and compare airborne contaminants (NH3, H2S, bioaerosols) and odor concentrations and intensities among three rural communities considered to be in a swine production area and three communities not considered to be within a swine production area. It was found that the low levels of NH3, H2S, odors, and bioaerosols measured in this study and the fact that these levels are below defined limits suggest that swine operation related emissions should not impact health in these communities at an animal
density of 151 AU/km2. Preliminary results from the questionnaires suggest a prevalence of symptoms (headaches, runny nose, cough, vomiting) even if there is no relationship between these symptoms and the odor concentration
measurements.

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