About Vermont Tracking Program

July 8, 2024

The Vermont (VT) Tracking Program provides data in maps, charts, and tables as a part of the state’s continuing effort to help Vermonters better understand the relationship between their environment and their health.

Accomplishments

Improving Indoor Air Quality

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Vermont schools received federal funding to improve indoor air quality (IAQ), including upgrades to heating and ventilation (HVAC) systems. The state health department and VT Tracking partnered with Efficiency Vermont to create an IAQ evaluation system. The system combined IAQ sensors with a custom data interface to assess the effectiveness of HVAC improvements. This system was adopted by 40 public and independent K–12 schools across the state.

The Tracking-supported IAQ system monitored carbon dioxide (CO₂), particulate matter (PM_2.5), temperature, and humidity. Facility managers used this information to understand how well the upgraded HVAC systems were working. For example, one school saw a significant increase in "good" CO₂ readings from 76% to 95% of occupied hours after installing new equipment. In another case, spikes in PM_2.5 were detected in a classroom, prompting engineers to work with staff on improving ventilation hood performance. Overall, the program helped schools better manage their indoor air quality for healthier learning environments.

Communicating with rural communities about radon

In 2022, the Vermont Department of Health’s Radon Program and Tracking Program collaborated to enhance outreach to rural communities about radon. Rural areas have limited high-speed internet access, so they need different communication approaches. The programs partnered with Offices of Local Health on an in-person community engagement strategy. This outreach improved awareness of health risks related to radon exposure. It also increased the number of requests for free radon test kits.

Protecting Vermonters from cyanobacteria blooms

The Vermont Tracking Program developed a monitoring system to provide near real-time information on cyanobacteria conditions. Previously, it took up to a week to publish data. Now, more than 140 locations are regularly monitored by trained volunteers and staff. Conditions are posted to the Cyanobacteria Tracker map shortly after volunteers submit their reports.

Protecting Vermont children from lead in drinking water

In November 2017, Vermont Tracking, Agency of Education, and Department of Environmental Conservation piloted a lead in drinking water program. They tested drinking water for lead at 16 public schools. Lead was detected in drinking water of at least three taps in all schools. Elevated lead levels were found at one or more taps in five of the schools. Schools removed taps with elevated lead levels from service and worked with the state to find ways to lower lead levels. Following the pilot program, Act 66 was passed, requiring Vermont schools and childcare centers to test their water for lead. Learn more.

Unique Data

All state and local tracking programs collect and display a set of standard data. But individual programs may host other data that are important to their populations. VT Tracking's unique data include the following.

Cyanobacteria (Blue-Green Algae) Tracker

Healthy Vermonters 2030

Heat Vulnerability Index

Pollen in Vermont

Radon Risk in Vermont

Social Vulnerability Index

Sub-County Cancer Data