Orange County gets a C, and Dutchess County a D, in an air quality report from the American Lung Association.

The organization's national State of The Air report says nearly 9 1/2 million New Yorkers have failing air quality. The report highlights problems with ozone and particle pollution, which can lead to health issues.

Officials from Orange County say the area isn't considered worse than the national Clean Air Act standards. Still, as one doctor points out, the shape of the valley area can be an issue.

"The pollutants as well as allergens stay here for a longer time," said allergist and immunologist Dr. Yasmin Bhasin. "You know, for some other areas, they get air diluted, and a little bit of wind in the way, but here they stay for a longer time, so that's why it's also known as 'Allergy Valley.' "

High ozone levels can cause irritation and breathing issues, especially for those suffering from lung ailments such as asthma. The association says no monitor data was collected for Sullivan, Ulster, Greene or Columbia counties.