Lighting Up Local Air Quality Awareness

Peace River Area Monitoring Program (PRAMP) | Peace River, AB

In the heart of the Peace Region, the Peace River Area Monitoring Program (PRAMP) serves as a dedicated guardian of air quality—supporting a healthier environment for its communities.

Focusing on emissions and ambient air quality, PRAMP provides credible and comprehensive data to identify and address air quality concerns.

Shelly Shannon (PRAMP) & Elvis Thomas (Woodland Cree) with a lantern

What is PRAMP?

“PRAMP is one of 10 regional monitoring organizations in Alberta’s Airshed network, all of which provide updates on local air quality in near real time,” said Colleen Sklapsky, PRAMP Director and Secretary/Treasurer representing the Town of Grimshaw.

Funded by the Oil Sands Monitoring Program and Alberta Environment and Protected Areas—with invaluable contributions from community members, industry representatives and municipal leaders—PRAMP exemplifies collaborative environmental stewardship.

“By collaborating with industry, local municipalities, Indigenous communities, residents and the Alberta government, PRAMP has gained valuable insights into regional air quality and developed effective ways to share information that empowers individuals to safeguard their health,” said Sklapsky.

Garrett Tomlinson co-chairs PRAMP’s board, representing Otipemisiwak Métis Government.

According to Tomlinson the air quality is generally very good in the Peace Region, but, he says, the increase in wildfire smoke over the past few years has had an impact on PRAMP’s role in the region.

“We’re seeing more people and organizations rely on the air quality information that PRAMP provides,” said Tomlinson. “PRAMP has increased the number of air sensors in different communities so people can access reliable, local air quality information when they need to. I’m really proud of this important work.”

PRAMP’s initiatives help build trust and awareness in the communities they serve, fostering a greater understanding of how air quality impacts health and well-being.

Air Quality Lanterns

PRAMP supplies the community with air quality lanterns that change colour according to the local air quality conditions. It is a simple, visual indicator of near real-time air quality.

And, to expand its reach and encourage community engagement, PRAMP has introduced the new Lantern Sponsorship Program. For $500 per year, organizations can sponsor an air quality lantern in the community.

In return, sponsors receive recognition on the lantern’s signage and a certificate to acknowledge their support. It’s a powerful way for local businesses, municipalities and organizations to showcase their commitment to public health and environmental concerns.

Testimonials From Lantern Sponsors

Matt Janisch is the president and CEO of Islander Oil & Gas Inc. His company decided to sponsor a PRAMP air quality lantern as part of their commitment to environmental stewardship and social responsibility.

“By supporting this initiative, we aim to raise awareness about air quality issues, provide valuable data to local residents and empower the community to take informed actions to protect their health,” said Janisch.

When the chance arose to support PRAMP’s air quality initiative, Ray Lambert, director of operations at Enfinite, jumped at the opportunity. He was proud to sponsor an air quality lantern for the Woodland Cree First Nation band office in Cadotte Lake—an area located near one of Enfinite’s power plants.

“Sponsoring this initiative was a natural fit. It aligns with our commitment to safety, people, collaboration and innovation,” said Lambert. “By supporting real-time air quality monitoring, we’re not just investing in data—we’re investing in healthier communities and a stronger future.”

Sponsoring an air quality lantern is a meaningful way for organizations to demonstrate sustainable change. It’s a visible commitment to transparency, education and air quality awareness—values that resonate strongly with community-minded businesses.

Angie Fricke is the senior operations coordinator at Obsidian Energy Ltd. They sponsored two air quality lanterns.

“As a proud and responsible operator within the community, we are committed to supporting the air quality lantern initiative,” said Fricke. “This investment represents a valuable contribution to both public health and the environment, while reinforcing our commitment to being a responsible and engaged community partner.”

Air quality lanterns are especially valuable in public spaces like hospitals, libraries and schools where they help educate residents—especially youth—on how to read and respond to air quality information in the moment.

Lynn Gaydosh—site manager of Peace River, Grimshaw and Berwyn Community Health Facilities—says in her experience the lanterns provide a lot of reassurance for staff members and the public.

“Many people have noticed our lantern and commented on how attractive and informative it is,” said Gaydosh. “I think it’s great to have these placed locally as we are all concerned with climate and environmental changes. This is a great way to keep our community engaged and informed.”

Amanda Peardon also co-chairs the PRAMP board, representing Baytex Energy. She says they have been really pleased with the enthusiastic response PRAMP has received from the air quality lanterns—from our sponsors and the host sites.

Interested in supporting air quality education in your community?

Sponsor an Air Quality Lantern for $500/year.

The sponsor will be named on lantern signage and receive a recognition certificate.

Email outreach@prampairshed.ca | Learn more at prampairshed.ca