Monitoring update: PurpleAir and EBAM deployments helped parse wildfire smoke; agency marks Air Quality Awareness Week

Monitoring staff updated the board on network performance, exceptional-event processing and deployments of supplemental sensors after storm-related and regional wildfire smoke.

Network performance: Staff reported 2025 year-to-date completeness of 97% for the BAM PM2.5 sampler and 95% for the ozone monitor at Bend Creek; staff noted the auto-calibration routine costs about one hour of data completeness each day on ozone instruments. The board praised field staff for maintaining the network and troubleshooting PurpleAir and EBAM units deployed to supplement regulatory monitors.

Smoke day and exceptional-event handling: Staff reviewed a March 28 forecasted code-red day that did not result in a regulatory code red at the agency—ontrol monitor but did show 24-hour exceedances on two supplemental EBAMs (Fairview and Swannanoa). Staff explained the state data-validation process and exceptional-event flagging used when wildfire smoke affects monitored concentrations; validated exceptional-event flags can be excluded from attainment determinations if EPA accepts the documentation.

Supplemental network value and incidents: Agency staff said PurpleAir and EVAM (EBAM) data provided higher spatial resolution and helped forecasters and the agency identify localized impacts; they also described routine field issues (power/cord damage, Wi-Fi outages) and the extra maintenance burden. The board noted outreach work during Air Quality Awareness Week, including a county proclamation and social-media posts explaining air curtain incinerators and other local topics.

Ending: Staff will continue to deploy and maintain supplemental sensors, perform data validation and flag exceptional events where smoke impacts concentrations, and continue public outreach on air quality topics.