Rapid population growth, urban expansion, increased automobile traffic, and accelerating commercial and industrial development in the Treasure Valley of Idaho has resulted in a significant reduction of regional air quality. Epidemiologic studies demonstrate a strong correlation between increasing levels of ambient air pollution and mounting asthma illness. In response to public concerns, the Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) is working with Boise State University to develop new approaches to community education and outreach.

One of the outcomes of this initiative is a new instrument called the Asthma Slide Rule. The purpose of this new tool is to provide practical guidance to parents and school teachers in protecting "vulnerable" children during air pollution episodes. The tool provides a simple means for determining acceptable physical activity levels during air pollution episodes in southwest Idaho.