Met_QAPP_FINAL.pdf

WDEQ AQD QAPP for Meteorological Parameters Revision 4, November 2025

Title Page

Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality – Air Quality Division

Quality Assurance Project Plan for the

Meteorological Ambient Air Monitoring Program

November 2025 Revision 4.0

Section 1

Section A. Project Management

1.0 Quality Assurance Project Plan Identification and Approval

Title: Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality, Air Quality Division (WDEQ-AQD) Quality Assurance Project Plan (QAPP) for the Meteorological Ambient Air Monitoring Program.

This QAPP for the Meteorological Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Program is hereby recommended for approval and commitment from the Department to follow the elements described within.

Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality, Air Quality Division

Air Pollution Monitoring Program Supervisor, Leif O. Paulson Date

Quality Assurance Coordinator, Ty Hysell Date

Air Pollution Monitoring Program Manager, Mark R. Gagen Date

11/24/2025

11/26/2025

11/24/2025

Section 2

2.0 Table of Contents

Section A. Project Management

1.0 Quality Assurance Project Plan Identification and Approval

2.0 Table of Contents

List of Tables

List of Figures

Acronyms

3.0 Distribution List

4.0 Project/Task Organization

4.1 Air Pollution Monitoring Program Manager

4.2 Air Pollution Monitoring Program Supervisor

4.3 Quality Assurance Coordinator

4.4 Project Managers

4.5 Monitoring Specialists

4.6 Site Operators

4.7 Data Manager

5.0 Problem Definition/Background

5.1 Supporting Documentation

6.0 Project Task Description

6.1 Meteorology Measurements

6.2 Sampling Frequency

6.3 Project Schedule

6.4 Project Reports

7.0 Quality Objectives and Criteria for Measurement of Data

7.1 The DQO Process

7.2 Data Quality Indicators

7.3 Representativeness of the Meteorology Measurements

8.0 Special Training/Certifications

9.0 Documents and Records

Section B. Data Generation and Acquisition

10.0 Network Description

11.0 Sampling Method

11.1 Meteorology Sensors

11.2 Support Monitoring Equipment

11.3 Data Acquisition System (DAS)

11.4 Telecommunications

11.5 Meteorological Tower

11.6 Standard Operating Procedures

12.0 Sample Handling and Custody

13.0 Analytical Method

Section 2

14.0 Quality Control Requirements

14.1 Instrument/Equipment Calibration and Frequency

14.2 Remote Interrogation of Monitoring Station and Inspection of Data

14.3 Instrument/Equipment Calibration and Frequency

14.4 Calibration Reference Standard Certification

15.0 Equipment Maintenance

16.0 Instrument Equipment Testing, and Inspection

16.1 Acceptance Testing of Instrumentation and Equipment Integration

16.2 Site and Equipment Maintenance

17.0 Inspection/Acceptance of Supplies and Consumables

17.1 Spare Parts

17.2 Inspection/Acceptance of Supplies and Consumables

18.0 Non‐Direct Measurements

19.0 Data Management

19.1 Data Retrieval

19.2 Raw Data

19.3 Data Transfer

19.4 DAS Data Review

19.5 Data Validation

19.6 Data Transmittal

19.7 Data Processing

19.8 Data Analyses

19.9 Data Flagging

19.10 Data Submittal to the Air Quality System

Section C. Assessment and Oversight

20.0 Assessment and Response Actions

20.1 Data Quality Audits

20.2 Corrective Actions

20.3 QAPP Revisions

21.0 Reports to Management

Section D. Data Validation and Usability

22.0 Data Review, Validation, and Verification Requirements

22.1 Data Acceptance Limits for Meteorological Data

23.0 Data Validation and Verification Methods

23.1 Level 0 Data Validation

23.2 Quality Control Checks for Data Validation

23.3 Level 1 Data Validation

23.4 Minimum Acceptable Data Recovery Percentage

23.5 Data Report QA Checklist

24.0 Reconciliation with User Requirements

References

Section 2

APPENDIX A: Standard Operating Procedures

A.1 Standard Operating Procedure for Meteorological Sensors

A.2 Standard Operating Procedure for Meteorological Sensor Audits

APPENDIX B: Ancillary Information

APPENDIX C: Revision Summary

Section 2

List of Tables

Table 1. QAPP Distribution List Table 2. Project Reports Table 3. DQO Seven-Step Decision Tree Process Table 4. Meteorological Sensors DQIs Table 5. Documentation and Reports Table 6. Meteorology Sensor QC Procedures Table 7. Meteorological Calibration Equipment Table 8. Calibration and Accuracy Criteria for Meteorological Sensors4,6 Table 9. Equipment Maintenance Activities Table 10. Reports to Management Table 11. Data Flags

List of Figures

Figure 1. WDEQ-AQD Organization Chart Figure 2. WDEQ-AQD Meteorological Site Locations, 2025 Figure 3. A Typical Meteorological 10 meter Tower Figure 4. Real Time Meteorological Data Display Figure 5. Real-Time Air Quality Display

Section 2

Acronyms

AGL Above Ground Level AMTIC Ambient Monitoring Technology Information Center APTI Air Pollution Training Institute

AQD Air Quality Division APMP Air Pollutant Monitoring Program AQS Air Quality System ASQ American Society for Quality AWMA Air & Waste Management Association CFR Code of Federal Regulations

DAS Data Acquisition System DQIs Data Quality Indicators DQOs Data Quality Objectives E‐log Electronic Logbook EPA U.S. Environmental Protection Agency HVAC Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning IMPACT Inventory, Monitoring, Permitting, And Compliance Tracking system IMS Industrial Monitoring Stations

IP Internet Protocol IPA Instrument Performance Audit IR Infrared LIDAR Light Detection and Radar MQOs Measurement Quality Objectives NAAQS National Ambient Air Quality Standards NPAP National Performance Audit Program NIST National Institute of Standards and Technology NCore National Core Air Measurement Network OAQPS Office of Air Quality Planning and Standards PEs Performance Evaluations

PEP Performance Evaluation Program PQAO Primary Quality Assurance Organization QA Quality Assurance QAPP Quality Assurance Project Plan QC Quality Control QMP Quality Management Plan SLAMS State and Local Air Monitoring Stations SLT State/Local/Tribal SOP Standard Operating Procedure SPMS Special Purpose Monitoring Stations

WAAQS Wyoming Ambient Air Quality Standards WDEQ Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality

Section 3

3.0 Distribution List

The following individuals listed in Table 1 have been provided a copy of this Quality Assurance Project Plan

(QAPP).

Table 1. QAPP Distribution List

Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality – Air Quality Division

Name Position

Amber Potts Administrator

Mark Gagen Air Pollution Monitoring Program Manager

Leif Paulson Air Pollution Monitoring Program Supervisor

Ty Hysell Quality Assurance Coordinator

Jacob Berreth CEMS/SLAMS Coordinator

Lauren Deverse Exceptional Events Analyst/Project Manager

Ardyss Thai Data Manager

Jack Kokkinen Project Manager

Grayson Rotter Project Manager

Jackson Sansone Project Manager

Paul Bailey Monitoring Specialist

Trevor Hale Monitoring Specialist

EPA Region VIII

Name Position

Joshua Rickard Wyoming Monitoring Contact

YeChan Lim Supervisor, Monitoring and Program Support Section

Section 4

4.0 Project/Task Organization

Since the early 1970s, the Air Pollutant Monitoring Program (APMP) has been committed to monitoring the air quality of Wyoming with the goal of protecting, conserving, and enhancing the quality of Wyoming’s environment for the benefit of current and future generations. The APMP provides the WDEQ‐AQD with valuable information that allows for determination of future policy considerations.

The WDEQ‐AQD plans, operates, and maintains a number of different types of ambient monitoring stations, including National Core (NCore), State and Local Air Monitoring Stations (SLAMS), Special Purpose Monitoring Stations (SPMS), Interagency Monitoring of Protected Visual Environment (IMPROVE) monitoring stations, and Industrial Monitoring Stations (IMS).

The SLAMS are sited in populated areas to monitor public health and demonstrate compliance with the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) but may serve other purposes, such as:

• Providing air pollution data to the general public in a timely manner

• Supporting compliance with air quality standards and emissions strategy development

• Supporting air pollution research studies

The SPMS collectively have multiple objectives. These objectives include:

• Providing air pollution data to the general public in a timely manner

• Monitoring public health

• Investigating pollutant concentrations downwind of sources

• Determining background pollutant concentrations

Since 2011, the WDEQ‐AQD has operated a fleet of mobile monitoring stations (“mobile stations”) to investigate questions or concerns about air quality on a short‐term basis (typically one year). Additionally, the WDEQ‐AQD administers an NCore station as part of the national network to evaluate long‐term trends in air quality. The IMS are independently operated stations that meet the requirements of their permits.

Although WDEQ‐AQD has oversight authority for the permit‐required monitoring networks, the IMS operate as independent Primary Quality Assurance Organizations (PQAOs) under separate AQD and EPA approved QAPPs. IMPROVE monitoring stations are also independently operated, where AQD funds the operations and analysis through EPA Grants.

The WDEQ‐AQD is committed to quality and the implementation of the procedures and practices found in this QAPP. Quality assurance (QA) is an integrated system of management activities involving planning, implementation, assessment, reporting, and quality improvement to ensure that a process, item, or service is of the type and quality needed and as expected. Quality control (QC) is the overall system of technical activities that measures the attributes and performance of a process, item, or service against defined standards to verify that they meet the stated requirements established by the customer. The QC system includes the operational techniques and activities that are used to fulfill requirements for quality.

Quality control is largely implemented through the QAPP and the standard operating procedures (SOPs).

Each instrument in the various monitoring programs has unique requirements, statutory standards, and support equipment that must be in place in order for the instrumentation to be operated according to the guidelines, rules, and policies that must be followed. This QAPP incorporates the unique qualities that are specific to meteorological monitoring for the WDEQ‐AQD network.

Implementation of the WDEQ‐AQD monitoring program requires an investment by the entire management

Section 4 team all the way to the Air Pollution Monitoring Program Manager. WDEQ‐AQD management recognizes and accepts this responsibility to identify the QA requirements that will meet the needs and expectations of the monitoring program. Any worthwhile monitoring program focuses on preventing quality problems.

Since the WDEQ‐AQD has an overarching Quality Management Plan (QMP) in place, this and all QAPPs will be mandated by the WDEQ‐AQD QMP. The QMP describes the quality system in terms of the organizational structure, functional responsibilities of management and staff, lines of authority, and required interfaces for those planning, implementing, assessing, and reporting activities involving environmental data operations.

The following sub‐sections describe the project participants and roles and responsibilities of each participant. Figure 1, which is in the last portion of this section, illustrates that management structure.

4.1 Air Pollution Monitoring Program Manager

The APMP Manager has overall responsibility for managing the WDEQ‐AQD according to WDEQ policy. The direct responsibility for assuring data quality rests with line management. Ultimately, the APMP Manager is responsible for establishing QA policy and for resolving QA issues identified through the QA program.

Major QA related responsibilities of the APMP Manager include:

• Participating in the budget and planning processes.

• Assuring that the WDEQ‐AQD develops and maintains a current and germane quality system.

• Assuring that the WDEQ‐AQD develops and maintains current QAPPs.

• Assuring adherence to the QA documents by staff and, where appropriate, other extramural cooperators establishing policies to ensure that QA requirements are incorporated in all environmental data operations.

• Maintaining an active line of communication with the APMP Supervisor, QA Coordinator, and Project Managers conducting management systems reviews.

The WDEQ‐AQD APMP Manager delegates the responsibility of QA development and implementation in accordance with WDEQ‐AQD policies. Oversight of the WDEQ‐AQD's QA program is delegated to the Quality Assurance Coordinator.

4.2 Air Pollution Monitoring Program Supervisor

The WDEQ‐AQD APMP Supervisor is the delegated manager of the routine monitoring programs, which includes the QA/QC activities that are implemented as part of normal data collection activities.

Responsibilities of the APMP Supervisor include:

• Communicating with EPA Project Officers and QA Personnel regarding sampling and quality assurance activities.

• Understanding EPA monitoring and QA regulations and guidance to ensure subordinates understand and follow the regulations and guidance.

• Understanding the WDEQ‐AQD's QA policy and ensuring subordinates do as well.

• Understanding and ensuring adherence to the QAPP.

• Reviewing acquisition packages (contracts, grants, cooperative agreements, and interagency agreements) to determine the necessary QA requirements.

• Developing budgets and providing program costs necessary for EPA allocation activities.

Section 4

• Ensuring that all personnel involved in environmental data collection have access to any training or QA information needed to be knowledgeable in QA requirements, protocols, and technology.

• Certifying to EPA that data are true, correct, and reported to EPA per Title 40 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 58.151.

4.3 Quality Assurance Coordinator

The QA Coordinator is the delegated manager of the WDEQ‐AQD's QA Program. The QA Coordinator has direct access to the Administrator, APMP Manager, and APMP Supervisor on all matters pertaining to QA.

The QA Coordinator’s main responsibility is QA oversight and ensuring that all personnel understand the WDEQ‐AQD's QA policy and all pertinent EPA QA policies and regulations specific to the APMP. The QA Coordinator provides technical support and reviews and approves QA products. Responsibilities include:

• Developing and interpreting WDEQ‐AQD QA policy and revising it as necessary.

• Developing a QA Annual Report for the Administrator.

• Assisting Contractors and Project Managers in developing QA documentation and in providing answers to technical questions.

• Ensuring that all personnel involved in environmental data operations have access to any training or QA information needed to be knowledgeable in QA requirements, protocols, and technology.

• Ensuring that environmental data operations are covered by appropriate QA planning documentation (e.g., QAPPs, data quality objectives, etc.).

• Ensuring that reviews, assessments, performance evaluations, and audits are scheduled and completed and, if needed, conducting or participating in QA activities.

• Tracking the QA/QC status of all programs.

• Recommending required management‐level corrective actions.

• Uploading QA/QC data to the EPA’s Air Quality System (AQS), which is the National database for all air pollution and meteorological data.

• Serving as the program's QA liaison with EPA Regional QA Managers or QA Officers and the Regional Project Officer.

The QA Coordinator has the authority to carry out these responsibilities and to bring to the attention of the APMP Manager any issues associated with these responsibilities. The QA Coordinator either performs or delegates the responsibility of QA development and implementation.

4.4 Project Managers

Project Managers are responsible for project coordination; oversight of contractor activities; maintaining the official, approved QAPP; and QAPP distribution. Responsibilities include:

• Ensuring the day‐to‐day operation and upkeep of all monitors are maintained.

• Overseeing data processing, reporting, and assuring data collection are performed in a timely fashion.

• Understanding EPA monitoring, QA regulations and guidance, and ensuring Contractors, Monitoring Specialists and Site Operators understand and follow those standards.

• Understanding WDEQ‐AQD QA policy and ensuring subordinates understand and follow the policy.

• Understanding and ensuring adherence to the QAPP as it relates to program support activities.

• Participating in the development of data quality requirements with the appropriate QA staff.

Section 4

• Writing and modifying QAPPs and SOPs.

• Verifying that all required QA activities were performed and quality standards were met as required in the QAPP.

4.5 Monitoring Specialists

The field personnel, either WDEQ‐AQD or contractor are responsible for carrying out required tasks and ensuring the data quality results of the tasks by adhering to the guidelines and protocols specified by the QAPP and SOPs for the field activities. Responsibilities include:

• Participating in the implementation of standards, as laid out in the QAPP.

• Keeping up‐to‐date in training and certification activities.

• Verifying that all required QA activities are performed and quality standards are met (as required by the QAPP).

• Following manufacturer specifications for any equipment used.

• Documenting deviations from established procedures and methods.

• Thoroughly document and keep all routine maintenance activities performed at the stations and all problems and report corrective actions to the Site Operator and Project Manager.

• Preparing and delivering reports to the Project Manager.

• Reviewing data and assessing and reporting on data quality.

4.6 Site Operators

The Site Operators visit the monitoring station once a month. The Site Operator’s role is to do routine maintenance on the monitoring station and instrumentation. For the purpose of this meteorological QAPP, the WDEQ‐AQD Monitoring Specialist can perform the duties of the Site Operator. Responsibilities include:

• Change in‐line filters on the continuous instruments (monthly).

• Perform unexpected tasks such as running a manual calibration (if necessary after a repair).

• Replace electronic or pneumatic components at the direction of a Contractor or Project Manager.

• Reporting all problems and corrective actions to the Contractor or Project Manager.

• Thoroughly documents all activities performed at a station and reports activities and results to the Contractor and Project Manager.

• Assessing and reporting on data quality.

4.7 Data Manager

The Data Manager reports to the APMP Manager and is in charge of the WyVisNet website and the AirVision data management system, which runs WyVisNet. Responsibilities include:

• The Data Manager is in charge of uploading data to the EPA’s Air Quality System (AQS), which is the National database for all air pollution and meteorological data

• Ensures data are moved to/from the IMPACT system and shared drives per our WDEQ Records Management Plan.

• Performs data queries within the central database in Cheyenne headquarters.

• Works with the vendors that supply and maintain the WyVisNet software system.

• Performs data analyses as described in Sections 22 and 23 of this QAPP.

Section 4

Please note that an annual review of the QAPP will be performed and, if no changes are needed, the WDEQ‐AQD will document that no changes were necessary. If changes are required, revised pages with the revisions will be inserted/changed, revisions will be tracked, and a new revision number will be assigned to the document.

Figure 1 on this page illustrates the organization structure for the WDEQ‐AQD. For a list of project participants, please see Appendix B.

Figure 1. WDEQ-AQD Organization Chart

Section 5

5.0 Problem Definition/Background

This QAPP pertains strictly to the collection and analysis of meteorological measurements within the WDEQ‐AQD Network and details the methodologies to establish precise and accurate meteorology measurements at all stations within the WDEQ‐AQD network, regardless of the type of monitoring that is performed.

The objective of the meteorology monitoring network is to provide the necessary information for developing a representative set of meteorological parameter data that supports the air quality data sets and be capable of delineating differences among geographical and climatological regions. The meteorological data are used to characterize and support trends in air quality and air quality standards’ compliance, and may be used for national health assessments and model evaluations. The procedures outlined in this QAPP have been developed to meet the goals and objectives of the monitoring projects. Revisions to the QAPP are made, as necessary, to reflect changes to the regulations or goals of the monitoring project. As a minimum, the QAPP is reviewed annually and revisions are made as necessary.

Currently, WDEQ‐AQD measures meteorological parameters at seventeen (17) monitoring stations. Hourly meteorology readings from a monitor are collected to support the ambient air monitoring networks, both in support of the NAAQS pollutants and other monitoring data.

Below is Figure 2, which illustrates the current 2025 WDEQ‐AQD Monitoring Stations. As can be seen from this map, the air monitoring network covers the entire State.

Section 5

Figure 2. WDEQ-AQD Meteorological Site Locations, 2025

5.1 Supporting Documentation

The information collected for this monitoring program will meet the requirements as found in the following documents:

• Quality Assurance Handbook for Air Pollution Measurement Systems, Volume II: Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Program, EPA‐454/B‐17‐001, January 20172

• Technical Assistance Document For Precursor Gas Measurements in the NCore Multi‐ Pollutant Monitoring Network, Version 4, EPA‐454/R‐05‐003 September 20053

• Quality Assurance Handbook for Air Pollution Measurement Systems, Volume IV:

Meteorological Measurements, EPA‐454/B‐08‐002, March 20084

• Technical Assistance Document for Sampling and Analysis of Ozone Precursors for the Photochemical Assessment Monitoring Stations Program, EPA‐454/B‐19‐004, April 20195

The guidance documents presented in the list above are to be followed for this monitoring program and are intended to ensure that data and technical information that are measured are of documented and appropriate quality and usability.

Section 6

6.0 Project Task Description

6.1 Meteorology Measurements

Meteorological measurements encompass a variety of different types of measurements. For this QAPP and supporting documents meteorological measurements are:

• Wind speed, scalar or average

• Wind direction, scalar or average

• Vertical wind speed

• Ambient temperature

• Delta Temperature

• Relative humidity

• Barometric Pressure

• Upper Air Boundary Layer (Ceilometry)

• Solar Radiation, and

• Precipitation

In addition, there are several sets of data that are calculated from the wind speed and direction data, collected and stored. These are:

• Sigma Theta

• Wind speed vector

• Wind direction vector

The Sigma Theta and vector data are calculated by the Data Acquisition System (DAS) on one‐second intervals, then averaged to 1‐minute and hourly averages (at a minimum). For a description of how these parameters are calculated, please see the EPA’s Handbook on Meteorological Measurements4.

6.2 Sampling Frequency

Data from the meteorology instruments are sampled every second by the DAS. The DAS then stores the data in 1‐minute and hourly increments (at a minimum). This data is then transmitted or reviewed by WDEQ‐ ADQ or Contractor staff on a defined interval to the central location in Cheyenne.

6.3 Project Schedule

Personnel working on this project are fully qualified, trained, and capable to perform their assigned duties.

Work schedules include: daily data review, semi‐annual meteorological equipment calibrations, quarterly data reports within sixty (60) days of quarter completion, annual reports within ninety (90) days of year completion, and maintenance and corrective action.

Section 6

6.4 Project Reports

Table 2 presents the reports that will be produced as part of this project.

Table 2. Project Reports

Reports Frequency Content Responsible Position

Quarterly Data Reports Quarterly

Summarizes data following EPA guidelines, includes accuracy and precision

Contractor with review by Project Manager

Annual Data Report Annually Summarizes data following EPA guidelines

Contractor with review by Project Manager

Performance Audit Reports

Semi‐annually Summarizes audit results following EPA guidelines

WDEQ‐AQD QA

Coordinator or

Contractor with review by Project Manager

Corrective Action Reports

As Needed

Summarizes corrective actions taken to return the monitoring station to compliant status

Contractor with review by Project Manager

Response to Corrective Action Reports

As Needed Reports the results of the corrective actions taken

Contractor with review by Project Manager

Section 7

7.0 Quality Objectives and Criteria for Measurement of Data

This section discusses the Data Quality Objectives (DQOs), the Measurement Quality Objectives (MQOs) and Data Quality Indicators (DQIs) that are mandatory for all monitoring programs.

Generally, the DQOs for any program are created by the stakeholders. The DQO process is a seven‐step decision tree that allows the stakeholders of the WDEQ‐AQD to define parameters for the program. The DQO process has been in existence for many years, first by the EPA and then utilized by the State, Local and Tribal governments that are required to collect data on behalf of the EPA. Since meteorological measurements only support NAAQS monitoring, there is no need to discuss NAAQS or WAAQS attainment.

As mentioned before, the DQO is a seven‐step process that takes the form of a discussion of the important aspects of the program. It is encouraged and useful that the DQO process be performed from time to time to ensure that the objectives are clear and concise.

7.1 The DQO Process

On August 12, 2020, the WDEQ‐AQD and its Contractor met to discuss the DQOs for the programs and define the objectives. Table 3 below outlines the discussion and the outputs of the DQO process in each step.

In order for the DQOs to be fulfilled, MQOs are designed to evaluate and control various phases (sampling, preparation, and analysis) of the measurement process to ensure that total measurement uncertainty is within the range prescribed by the DQOs. MQOs can be defined in terms of the following DQIs:

representativeness, detectability, completeness, and comparability.

Table 3. DQO Seven-Step Decision Tree Process

DQO Step Output to Discussion by Decision Makers

Step 1. State the Problem

The State of Wyoming, being within the bounds of the United States, must adhere to the Clean Air Act Amendments. The Code of Federal Regulations 40 part 50 set the NAAQS and the State of

Wyoming measures for the NAAQS pollutants. In addition, the State of Wyoming promulgated its own Wyoming Ambient Air Quality Standards (WAAQS), which are nearly identical to the

NAAQS. The State of Wyoming must comply with these standards and thus measure in various locations to meet the requirements.

In support of measuring for NAAQS compounds, meteorological parameters are monitored to understand the origins of the NAAQS compounds in question.

Step 2. Identify the Goal of the Study

Not only does the State of Wyoming have to measure for these NAAQS pollutants, but they must also adhere to the level of the standard (attainment vs. nonattainment as promulgated in 40 CFR Part 50). In order to understand the environment as a whole, meteorological data must be collected in support of the NAAQS pollutant data that are generally collected at the same location.

Step 3. Identify Information Input

The input information is the hourly meteorological data that are collected at the locations where NAAQS parameters are monitored

(see Appendix B).

Step 4. Define the Boundaries of the Study

The boundary of the study is the entire State of Wyoming. This study only applies to the WDEQ‐AQD Primary Quality Assurance

Organization (PQAO).

Section 7

DQO Step Output to Discussion by Decision Makers

Step 5. Develop the Analytical Approach

The WDEQ‐AQD will collect meteorological data at all of the monitoring locations that are deemed necessary. At the end of the year, the WDEQ‐AQD will review, analyze, and certify that the data collected within the WDEQ‐AQD network are valid within the parameters laid out in this QAPP.

Step 6. Specify Performance Criteria

The performance criteria are described in this QAPP under the MQOs and thus the DQIs. If the data collected adhere to these performance criteria, then the data can be used to support the

State’s declaration of nonattainment or attainment status. In addition, the meteorological data can be used to understand the nature of the sources of the pollutants and aid in their mitigation.

Step 7. Develop the Plan for Obtaining Data

Having developed these DQOs, the WDEQ‐AQD has developed this meteorological QAPP and SOP for meteorological sensors to ensure that the QA and QC procedures are documented and followed by WDEQ‐AQD staff and their Contractors.

7.2 Data Quality Indicators

The data quality indicators (DQIs) are a set of indicators which can be easily measured. The DQIs are either inherent in the instruments, i.e., detection limits, or indicate how the meteorological parameters are analyzed.

Here is a discussion of each DQI:

• Accuracy ‐ is a measure of the overall agreement of a measurement to a known value and includes a combination of random error (precision) and systematic error (bias) components of sampling. This is performed using the independent meteorological performance audits.

• Resolution ‐ The lowest value that the sensor can report. This should not be confused with minimum detectable limits (MDLs), which are defined below.

• Detection Limit ‐ The lowest value that a sensor can determine to be different from zero by a single measurement at a stated level of probability.

• Completeness ‐ describes the amount of valid data obtained from a measurement system compared to the amount that was expected to be obtained under normal conditions. For meteorological measurements, generally this is data completeness of 90%.

• Comparability ‐ generally falls under the auspice of equipment specifications and monitoring methods. For meteorology, there are no Federal reference or equivalent instruments.

Therefore, instruments have been chosen that will meet the guidelines of EPA QA Handbook Volume IV4 and the EPA Modeling Guidance6. Please refer to these two reference documents for further discussion.

• Representativeness ‐ This DQI deals with whether or not the location of the meteorology sensor represents the type of monitoring that is necessary, i.e., are the station meteorology sited appropriately for the stations intended objective. Normally, sensors are mounted on 10 meter towers and placed according to their intended height.

Section 7

The goals for acceptable DQIs for detailed in Table 4 on this page.

Table 4. Meteorological Sensors DQIs

Parameter Accuracy Sensor Resolution Minimum Detectable

Limits

Wind Speed ±0.25 m/s ≤5 m/s ±5%>5 m/s not to exceed 2.5 m/s

0.01 m/s 0.1 m/s

Wind Direction ±5 degrees 0.01 degree 1.0 degree

Ambient Temperature ±1.0°C 0.01°C 0.1°C

Vertical Temp.

Difference

±0.1°C 0.01°C 0.01°C

Relative Humidity ±10% 0.1% 0.5%

Solar ±10 W/m2 below 200 W/m2 and 5% above

200 W/m2

1.0 W/m2 10 W/m2

Barometric Pressure ±3 mb 0.001 mb 0.05 mb

Precipitation ±10% of input volume ±0.01 in 0.01 in

Boundary Layer ±1% or 5 meters 5 meters 5 meters

7.3 Representativeness of the Meteorology Measurements

Site selection and probe placement followed guidelines in the following US EPA documents to assure that measurements are representative of meteorological and air quality monitoring conditions near the monitoring stations:

• Quality Assurance Handbook for Air Pollution Measurement Systems, Volume IV:

Meteorological Measurements, EPA‐454/B‐08‐002, March 20084

• EPA’s Meteorological Monitoring Guidance for Regulatory Modeling Applications, EPA‐ 454/R‐ 99‐ 005, February 20006

The placement of meteorological sensors must consider local interferences, distance to structures, trees, buildings and height of probe above ground. The network was set up in accordance with EPA‐ defined ambient air quality and meteorological siting criteria, which is detailed in EPA’s Meteorology Handbook Volume IV4, Section 1.0, Tower Guidance and Siting. Please refer to this reference document for further discussion.

Section 8

8.0 Special Training/Certifications

Personnel assigned to the APMP will meet the educational, work experience, responsibility, and training requirements for their positions. Records on personnel qualifications and training will be maintained in personnel files and will be accessible for review during audit activities.

Adequate education and training are integral to any monitoring program that strives for reliable and comparable data. It is recommended that WDEQ‐AQD maintain some requirements for personnel qualifications (combination of education and experience). Training is aimed at increasing the effectiveness of employees and their organization.

As part of a quality assurance program the procedures should include information on:

• Personnel qualifications (general and position‐specific)

• Training requirements (based on position)

• Frequency of training

Appropriate training should be available to employees supporting the APMP and commensurate with their duties. Such training may consist of classroom lectures, workshops, web‐based courses, teleconferences, vendor‐provided and on‐the‐job training. Training should also include appropriate reading materials, such as the CFR, EPA guidance documents, and the monitoring organization’s QAPPs and SOPs, to name a few.

EPA encourages monitoring organizations to maintain documentation that details the training provided to all monitoring staff, along with documentation that illustrates the successful completion of the training requirements. Along with suggested training, the EPA encourages regional planning organizations and monitoring organizations to develop training programs that require some level of certification. Over the years, a number of courses have been developed for personnel involved with ambient air monitoring and quality assurance aspects.

Formal QA/QC training is offered through the following organizations:

• Air Knowledge Training Program https://airknowledge.gov/

• Air & Waste Management Association (AWMA) https://www.awma.org/

• American Society for Quality (ASQ) https://asq.org

• EPA Quality Staff (QS) https://www.epa.gov/quality

• EPA Regional Offices https://www.epa.gov/aboutepa/regional-and-geographic-offices

• EPA Ambient Monitoring Technology Information Center (AMTIC) Technology Transfer Network https://www.epa.gov/amtic

WDEQ‐AQD should consider adding manufacturer‐provided training to the equipment purchase cost.

Persons having experience in the subject matter described in the courses would select courses according to their appropriate experience level. Courses not included in the core sequence would be selected according to individual responsibilities, preferences, and available resources.

Section 9

9.0 Documents and Records

The WDEQ‐AQD is committed to fully documenting all activities related to data collection, analysis, validation, and reporting. Table 5 contains a list of the records maintained by the APMP. These records can be electronic, bound in notebooks, and/or forms that are used for specific applications. Electronic records will be stored on main office storage drives and archived by the Contractors and ultimately, the WDEQ‐AQD office servers. All project files are backed up daily. In addition, weekly network backup occurs. The weekly backup network files are stored onto external hard drives which are stored off‐site. The WDEQ‐AQD has several of these backup hard drives and copies of the field logbook are archived in the WDEQ‐AQD Cheyenne office for five (5) years.

Table 5. Documentation and Reports

Documentation Type

Frequency Report

Submission Archive Retention Period

Monitoring Data Daily Downloads Contractors WDEQ‐AQD and

Contractor’s Serve (with backup)

5 years

QAPP and SOPs Annually or more frequently, as needed

QA Coordinator WDEQ‐AQD 5 years

Copies of Field Logbooks

After each site visit

Site Operators and Contractors

WDEQ‐AQD and Contractors

5 years

Quarterly Reports Quarterly Contractors WDEQ‐AQD and

Contractors 5 years

Annual Data Report

Annually Contractors WDEQ‐AQD and

Contractors 5 years

Performance Audit Summaries

Semi‐Annually QA Coordinator or

Contractor WDEQ‐AQD 5 years

All monitoring data, reports and program documentation will be retained by WDEQ‐AQD for a minimum of five (5) years. The WDEQ‐AQD will review and approve updates or changes to the QAPP plan given updates or changes to the Records Management Plan.

Section 10

Section B. Data Generation and Acquisition

10.0 Network Description

This section describes the project design and implementation of the meteorological monitoring network. For the list of current locations and a description of the Meteorological Monitoring Network, please see Section

1.0 of Appendix B, Instrument Locations.

Section 11

11.0 Sampling Method

The meteorology network maintained by the WDEQ‐AQD is placed nearby monitoring shelters across the State. The sensors used to measure metrological parameters are described in Volume II of EPA’s Quality Assurance Handbook for Measurement Systems4. Meteorology is measured by sensors placed in ambient air from several levels of a 10-meter tower. In addition, some of the sensors, such as the solar radiation or precipitation gauge, can be mounted on the hand rails around the roof of the shelter.

11.1 Meteorology Sensors

For a list of the current instruments utilized throughout the monitoring network, please see Appendix B, Section 2.0, and Types of Instruments. This discussion gives a brief overview on how these sensors operate.

• Horizontal Wind Speed: Horizontal wind speed sensors commonly utilize a cup or propeller assembly turning on either a vertical or horizontal axis. The aerodynamic shape of the cups converts the wind pressure into torque. This will turn a shaft that is supported by low friction, precision bearings. The shaft rate of rotation is converted to wind speed by the use of a transducer. Ideally, there is a relationship between the rate of rotation and wind speed, above the starting threshold. Please note that because no bearings are frictionless, there is a finite amount of wind, albeit very low, which is needed to start the anemometer to begin to move. This amount of wind is known as the starting threshold. A performance audit on this sensor provides physical verification that: 1) the sensor’s starting threshold has not changed or is below the manufacturer’s stated starting threshold, and 2) the transducer is properly converting cup rate of rotation (rpm) to wind speed.

• Vertical Wind Speed: The vertical wind speed (VWS) sensor employs a helicoid four blade propeller. A miniature tachometer/generator produces an analog DC voltage proportional to the axial wind component. When propeller rotation reverses, signal polarity reverses. This produces a plus (+) or minus (‐) direction of rotation.

• Horizontal Wind Direction: Wind direction sensors indicate the direction from which the wind is blowing. The wind direction is expressed as an azimuth angle on a 360° circle where 0° or 360° indicates North (usually True North) and 180° indicates South. Wind direction sensors use a tail assembly positioned on a vertical shaft to detect wind direction. Wind applies a force to the tail assembly of the sensor forcing the assembly to turn into the wind seeking a position of minimum force. The shaft of the sensor rests on low friction precision grade bearings and is connected to a low torque potentiometer. The potentiometer yields a voltage output proportional to the wind direction. The starting threshold of the sensor is controlled by the relationship of shape, size, and distance from the axis of rotation of the tall assembly to the vertical shaft, bearings, and potentiometer torque requirements.

• Ambient Temperature: For air quality applications, ambient temperature is measured with a temperature probe. The probe can be a thermistor, resistance temperature detector (RTD), or thermocouple. The probe to be audited should be located in a radiation shield that protects it from the effects of solar heating and wind variations.

• Delta Temperature: Also known as delta T (ΔT), for air quality applications, delta temperature is measured with two temperature probes at different heights. The utility of this is to ascertain whether air is rising or falling. This information can go into dispersion models used to track the movement of vertical movement of air.

• Relative humidity (RH): RH is the ratio of the existing amount of water vapor in the air at a given temperature to the maximum amount that could exist at that temperature. This value is usually expressed in percent relative humidity (%RH). Percent relative humidity is a variable parameter which is affected by atmospheric conditions during its measurement.

Section 11

Capacitive sensors measure RH utilizing a strip of metal between an electrical current. The metal strip electrical capacity (i.e., voltage) changes linearly with the RH.

• Barometric pressure (BP): BP measurements can be used in modeling and can be used to correct an ambient measurement to standard conditions (298oK and 760 millimeters of mercury). BP sensors use pressure transducers which transform the sensor response into a pressure‐related electrical signal.

• Solar Radiation: Solar radiation is related to atmospheric stability and is commonly described in units of energy flux: Watts per square meter (W/m2). A pyranometer is used to measure sun and sky radiation on a horizontal surface. Most pyranometers incorporate a thermopile sensor; however, a silicon photovoltaic cell can also be used. The net radiometer measures the difference between downward (solar) and upward (terrestrial) radiation.

• Precipitation: Precipitation is defined as: “the total amount of precipitation which reaches the ground in a stated period is expressed as the depth to which it would cover a horizontal projection of the earth’s surface if there were no loss by evaporation or run‐off and if any part of the precipitation falling as snow or ice were melted.” Precipitation gauges work on the principle of a tipping bucket gauge. A funnel directs precipitation to a small inlet that directs water over two equal compartments, or buckets, that tilt in sequence with each representing a known quantity of rainfall. The motion of the buckets causes an electrical switch to close and the number of tips are counted.

• Ceilometer: A ceilometer employs pulsed diode laser Light Detection and Ranging (LIDAR) technology, where short, powerful laser pulses are sent out in a vertical or near‐vertical direction. The reflection of light, backscatter, caused by haze, fog, mist, precipitation, and/or clouds, is measured as the laser pulses traverse the sky. The resulting backscatter intensity profile and the mixing height is measured using the characteristics of the backscattered profile. The time delay between the launch of the laser pulse and the detection of the backscatter signal provides the measure of the layer heights. The operating principle of a ceilometer is based on the measurement of the time needed for a short pulse of light to traverse the atmosphere from the transmitter emitted from the ceilometer to the top of the backscattering layer and back to the receiver of the ceilometer.

11.2 Support Monitoring Equipment

This section summarizes the meteorology support equipment being used at the WDEQ‐AQD meteorology network. The SOP for meteorological sensors details the calibration and operation of the equipment.

11.3 Data Acquisition System (DAS)

Instantaneous data from the meteorological instruments are transferred once per second to the DAS usually by a serial cable. The DAS is a self‐contained box with the ability to measure and control electronics, communicate with on‐site computers or remote systems. Data is generally stored in a table format. Please note that the DAS stores 1‐minute and hourly data (at a minimum). The one‐second data is not stored.

11.4 Telecommunications

Telecommunication services are used for high‐speed remote communication to all onsite equipment including the DAS. Additionally, each instrument onsite is configured with a unique IP address for remote maintenance and control purposes. The gateway has all of the firewall protection and routing protocols necessary for protection, isolation, and security.

Section 11

11.5 Meteorological Tower

The WDEQ‐AQD utilizes free‐standing towers that are tilted down in order to have easy access to the sensors at the top of the tower. In most cases, to accommodate wind speed/wind direction sensors, the towers must be able to reach a height of ten (10) meters. Some instruments, such as RH, ambient temperature and ΔT are mounted at two (2) meters above the ground. Figure 3 illustrates the configuration of the monitoring equipment and the placement of this equipment at a typical monitoring site.

Figure 3. A Typical Meteorological 10 meter Tower

11.6 Standard Operating Procedures

A SOP for meteorological sensors has been developed to provide instructions to the Site Operators regarding routine operation of the meteorology equipment. The SOP for meteorological sensors discusses equipment inspection and acceptance testing, visual inspections, preventive maintenance, and calibration procedures. The SOP for meteorological sensors is an independent document that is a companion to this

QAPP.

The identification, cause, and corrective action for conditions adverse to quality will be documented on the Corrective Action Report form (see the SOP). Follow‐up action will be taken by the Contractor and Project Manager to verify the corrective action was taken.

Section 12

12.0 Sample Handling and Custody

All meteorological data is generated by the individual sensors based on the environmental conditions around the monitoring station. The sensors send a digital or analog signal to the DAS that records, averages and stores the data in the DAS. There are no sample handling requirements for the meteorological data.

Section 13

13.0 Analytical Method

All modern meteorological sensors measure the atmosphere by using its physical characteristics; e.g. for wind direction, the movement of the wind pushes the tail of the wind vane, therefore, when the wind forces are equal on both sides of the vane, the front of the vane points in the direction of the wind. An electronic potentiometer measures this direction and sends a signal to the DAS, which is recorded.

Section 11.1 of this QAPP describes how these instruments operate. For more detailed information, please refer to the operating manual of each of the instruments that are listed in Appendix B, List of Instruments.

Section 14

14.0 Quality Control Requirements

This section describes the routine quality control procedures used for the meteorology monitoring program. All procedures have been specifically designed to provide the appropriate quality control and ensure that valid data recovery meets or exceeds the WDEQ‐AQD data recovery requirements of 90 percent per quarter for meteorology monitoring.

The meteorological measurements follow the quality control guidelines as stated in the following documents:

• Quality Assurance Handbook for Air Pollution Measurement Systems, Volume IV:

Meteorological Measurements, EPA‐454/B‐08‐002, March 20084

• EPA’s Meteorological Monitoring Guidance for Regulatory Modeling Applications, EPA‐454/R‐ 99‐005, February 20006

14.1 Instrument/Equipment Calibration and Frequency

Table 6 illustrates the QC procedures and their frequency for meteorology instruments.

Table 6. Meteorology Sensor QC Procedures

Procedure Frequency Requirement

Visual Inspection of Equipment Each site visit; typically, once a month As needed, see below

Remote interrogation of monitoring station and inspection of data Daily

QC Checks for data screening.

Section 14.2

Calibration Every six months or whenever maintenance or replacement occurs.

See brief description in Section

14.3 and detailed description in

SOP

Equipment Maintenance As needed or as the operating manual recommends Section 15

Data Validation Daily and monthly Section 22 and 23

Normally, the Site Operator visits the shelter at least once per month to check that the analyzers and meteorological instruments are operational and recording concentrations typical for the environment. At this time, the Site Operator will step outside and look at the meteorological sensors to make sure they are operational. Here are a few items the site operator will look for:

• Is the propeller or cups moving?

• Does the wind direction appear to be correct relative to the cross arm direction?

• Is it raining, or was there precipitation last night? Check the DAS.

• Does the temperature appear to be normal with how it feels outside, either cold or hot?

• Do the vents in the temperature/RH housing appear clear?

• Is the window on the ceilometer clean?

If any of these items do not appear to be correct, it may be necessary to perform an up‐close inspection and/or calibration.

Section 14

14.2 Remote Interrogation of Monitoring Station and Inspection of Data

The DAS at the monitoring stations will be interrogated daily via an internet connection to download and process the data. Abnormal data values or problems will be reported as soon as possible to the Contractor, who will initiate corrective action and determine if a special site visit is required.

Computerized inspection and visual inspection of these data will be performed daily using an outlier program. Values that fall outside of prescribed limits will be evaluated by the Contractor and Project Manager and corrections to data will be documented.

14.3 Instrument/Equipment Calibration and Frequency

The following paragraphs are brief descriptions of the calibration of the meteorological instruments.

Detailed procedures are found in the SOP for meteorological sensors.

Wind…