In collaboration with regional environmental experts (Lane Regional Air Protection Agency) and the Pac-12 Conference, the University of Oregon has been constantly evaluating the potential for any air quality issues that may arise during our game Saturday against Southern Utah. Fan and student-athlete safety is our paramount concern, and while all data at this point indicates no health risks or dangers posed by air quality, we will continue to collectively evaluate smoke conditions and would enact any contingencies as circumstances dictate.
With respect to the expected warm temperatures, our event operations team (UOPD, EPD, the Eugene-Springfield Fire Department, the American Red Cross, and CMS) has a plan in place regarding Saturday relative to the expected high temperatures. Per the normal policy at Autzen Stadium, fans are permitted to bring sealed, plastic bottles of water in the stadium, and we will have hydration stations available for fans to refill their plastic water bottles.
Also, additional water misters are being placed on the concourses and along the North rim of the stadium, and there will be an increased number of EMT medical personnel in attendance. Two recovery tents will be in place on the South side of the stadium with coolers of ice towels for any fans requiring assistance.
As public health officials have said, fans should remain hydrated and monitor the weather situation in order to make informed decisions regarding game attendance based on their individual health profiles. According to airnow.gov, sensitive groups in this situation can include people with lung disease, older adults and children are at a greater risk from exposure to ozone, whereas persons with heart and lung disease, older adults and children are at greater risk from the presence of particles in the air.
We hope you enjoy your experience at Autzen Stadium, and we thank you for your support of the Oregon Ducks.