Staffers for the California Air Resources Board on Thursday will explain studies on San Joaquin Valley particle pollution and answer questions about a new plan to clean up airborne soot and chemical specks.

The meeting will be from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Fresno-Madera Medical Society, 1382 E. Alluvial Avenue, Suite 106, Fresno.

The CARB staff is recommending approval of the PM-2.5 plan when the governing board meets May 22 in Fresno. The plan was passed by the San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District on April 30.

PM-2.5 specks can trigger asthma and heart disease as well as causing early death. The Valley has some of the worst PM-2.5 pollution in California.

For details, e-mail szulawni@arb.ca.gov, or call (916) 324-7163.