Citation:

Caicadeo, V., J. Szykman, L. Valin, D. Williams, AND K. Cavender. Product 1.4.2: Research to Support Photochemical Assessment Monitoring Stations (PAMS) Program (40 CFR part 58): Development and Implementation of a Common Mixing Height Algorithm and Prototype National Data Archive - project status update to OAQPS and State Modelers. EPA-State model evaluation forum: monthly meeting, NA, North Carolina, February 26, 2020.

Impact/Purpose:

The PAMS monitoring regulations require states to measure hourly mixing height (MH) at required PAMS sites by October 2021. The primary objective of this requirement is to provide hourly MH for the routine evaluation of chemical transport models such as WRF-CMAQ. OAR-OAQPS expects most states to meet this requirement through use of a ceilometer. Over the past several years CEMM has evaluated commercially available ceilometers and the proprietary software provided by vendors for calculating MH. Currently no standard methodology exists that can be used across different commercially available ceilometers for MH. Under this research we are working with external collaborators to develop, test, and implement a common algorithm for calculating continuous MHs from commercially available ceilometers, and other available profiling instruments such as wind lidars. This effort includes the development of a prototype data archive system for the raw profile backscatter data and a common level two processing algorithm that will serve as consistent, traceable alternative for state and local agencies to use in place of vendor-supplied proprietary software. The prototype data archive system is be developed in collaboration with Maryland Department of the Environment, University of Maryland Baltimore County, and NASA, with the goal of the archive being hosted at one of NASA’s National Data Center.

Description:

Project status update to OAQPS and State Modelers

Record Details: