PM_QAPP_FINAL.pdf

WDEQ AQD QAPP for Particulate Matter Revision 4.0, November 2025

Title Page

Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality - Air Quality Division

Quality Assurance Project Plan For the Particulate Matter Ambient Air Monitoring

Program

November 2025 Revision 4.0

Section 1

Section A. Project Management

1.0 QA Project Plan Identification and Approval

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

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

Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality, Air Quality Division

Air Pollution Monitoring Program Supervisor, Leif 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 QA 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 Pollutant Monitoring Program Manager

4.2 Air Pollutant Monitoring Program Supervisor

4.3 Quality Assurance Coordinator

4.4 Project Manager

4.5 Monitoring Specialist

4.6 Site Operator

4.7 Data Manager

4.8 Data Validator

5.0 Problem Definition/Background

5.1 National and State of Wyoming Air Quality Standards

5.2 Supporting Documentation

6.0 Project Task Description

6.1 Particulate Matter 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 Particulate Matter 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 Continuous PM10 (BAM)

11.2 Continuous PM2.5 (BAM)

11.3 Filter-Based PM2.5 FRM

11.4 Filter-Based PM2.5 (Speciated Aerosol Measurements)

11.5 Particulate Matter Samplers

11.6 Support Monitoring Equipment

Section 2

11.7 Data Acquisition System

11.8 Telecommunications

11.9 Shelter Temperature

11.10 Sampler Support

11.11 Standard Operating Procedures

12.0 Sample Handling and Custody

13.0 Analytical Method

14.0 Quality Control Requirements

14.1 Instrument/Equipment Calibration and Frequency

14.2 Visual Inspection of Equipment

14.3 Remote Interrogation of Monitoring Station and Inspection of Data

14.4 Equipment Calibration

14.5 Flow, Temperature and Pressure Verification and Calibration

15.0 Site and Equipment Maintenance

16.0 Instrument Equipment Testing and Inspection

16.1 Acceptance Testing of Instrumentation and Equipment Integration

16.2 Site Surveillance and System Check Procedures

16.3 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 Thermo Partisol 2000i and MetOne E-SEQ

20.2 BAM 1020 and 1022

20.3 URG 3000N

20.4 Met One SuperSass

20.5 Corrective Actions

20.6 QAPP Revisions

Section 2

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 Particulate Matter

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

APPENDIX A: Standard Operating Procedures for Particulate Matter Instruments

Appendix A.1 - URG 3000N and Met One SuperSASS Chemical Speciation Monitors

Appendix A.2 – Met One 1020 and 1022 Beta Attenuation Monitor

Appendix A.3 – Thermo 2000i

Appendix A.4 – Met One E-SEQ Sampler

Appendix A.5 – PM Audits

APPENDIX B: Ancillary Information

Appendix B – Ancillary Information For Particulate Matter Monitoring

APPENDIX C: Revision Summary

Section 2

List of Tables

Table 1. Distribution List Table 2. Project Reports Table 3. DQO Process Write-up Table 4. DQIs for PM10 Beta Attenuation Monitors Table 5. DQIs for PM2.5 Beta Attenuation Monitors Table 6. DQIs for PM2.5 Filter Based Methods Table 7. Documentation and Reports Table 8. PM10 Instrument Verification and Validation Requirements Table 9. PM2.5 Instrument Verification and Validation Requirements Table 10. Support Equipment Maintenance Activity Table 11. BAM 1020 & 1022 Recommended Maintenance Activities Table 12. Thermo 2000i Maintenance Activity Table 13. Met One E-SEQ Maintenance Activity Table 14. SuperSASS and URG Maintenance Activity Table 15. Reports to Management Table 16. Data Flags

List of Figures

Figure 1. WDEQ-AQD Organizational Chart Figure 2. WDEQ-AQD PM10 Monitoring Site Locations from 1985-2025 Figure 3. WDEQ-AQD PM2.5 Monitoring Site Locations from 1998-2025 Figure 4. The PM Samplers on the Roof and Sampling Platform Figure 5. The PM Instruments on a platform at the NCore Station Figure 6. Samplers and Inlets for the BAMs on Roof of the NCore Shelter

Section 2

Acronyms

AGL Above Ground Level AMTIC Ambient Monitoring Technology Information Center APTI Air Pollution Training Institute AQD Wyoming Air Quality Division APMP Air Pollutant Monitoring Program AQS Air Quality System

ASQ American Society for Quality AWMA Air & Waste Management Association BAM Beta Attenuation Monitor CFR Code of Federal Regulations CSN Chemical Speciation Network DAS Data Acquisition System DQIs Data Quality Indicators DQOs Data Quality Objectives E-log Electronic Logbook EPA U.S. Environmental Protection Agency FEM Federal Equivalent Method FRM Federal Reference Method HVAC Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning IMPACT Inventory, Monitoring, Permitting, and Compliance Tracking IMPROVE Interagency Monitoring of Protected Visual Environment IMS Industrial Monitoring Stations MFC Mass Flow Calibrator 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 PM Particulate Matter PM10 Particulate Matter that is less than 10 microns in aerodynamic size PM2.5 Particulate Matter that is less than 2.5 microns in aerodynamic size PM4 Particulate Matter that is less than 4.0 microns in aerodynamic size PMcoarse Particulate Matter that is between 10 and 2.5 microns in aerodynamic size 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 SSI Size Selective Inlet UCD-ARQC University of Davis - Air Quality Research Center URG University Research Group VSCC Very Sharp Cut Cyclone

Section 2

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 QAPP.

Table 1. Distribution List

Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality, Air Quality Division

Name Position

Amber Potts Administrator

Mark Gagen Air Pollutant Monitoring Program Manager

Leif Paulson Air Pollutant 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 Air Program Tech Unit

YeChan Lim Supervisor, Air Permitting and Monitoring Branch Manager

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 Particulate Matter (PM) for the WDEQ-AQD programs.

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

Section 4 management 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 subsections 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 Pollutant Monitoring Program Manager

The APMP Manager has overall responsibility for managing the AQD according to WDEQ-AQD 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 Pollutant 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.

Section 4

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

● 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 Monitoring Specialists 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.

● Serving as the program's QA liaison with EPA Regional QA Managers or QA Officers and the

Regional Project Officer.

● Uploads Quality Assurance data to EPA’s AQS System.

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 Manager

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 Specialist 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.

● Writing and modifying QAPPs and SOPs.

Section 4

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

4.5 Monitoring Specialist

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 guidance and protocols specified by the QAPP and SOPs for the field activities. Responsibilities include:

● Change PM filters (gravimetric and speciation) on the filter-based instruments (weekly or as needed).

● 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 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 Operator

For the Particulate Matter network, the Site Operators visit the monitoring station once a month. The Site Operators role is to do the routine maintenance on the monitoring station and instrumentation. For the purpose of this PM QAPP, either WDEQ-AQD Specialists or contractors can perform the duties of Site Operator. Responsibilities include:

● Change PM filters (gravimetric and speciation) on the filter-based instruments (weekly or as needed).

● Perform unexpected tasks such as run a manual calibration (if necessary after a repair).

● Replace electronic or pneumatic components at the direction of a Monitoring Specialist.

● Reporting all problems and corrective actions to the Contractor, Monitoring Specialist or Project

Manager.

● Thoroughly documents all activities performed at a station and reports activities and results to

Project Manager.

● Reviewing data and 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 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, AirVision, 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.

Section 4

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

● Programs AirVision to produce monthly and quarterly reports for project manager review.

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.

4.8 Data Validator

For AQD operated PM stations, the Data Validator is responsible for data validation and reporting. The validator may hold other duties in the APMP but may not be the Specialist or Project Manager of the PM station that produces the data they are validating.

● The Data Validator performs daily validation (on business days) of AQD operating stations in the

AirVision software.

• The Data Validator communicates with the Project Manager and Monitoring Specialist if the data shows an operational issue at a monitor.

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

Section 4

Figure 1. WDEQ-AQD Organizational Chart

Section 5

5.0 Problem Definition/Background

This QAPP pertains strictly to the collection and analysis of Particulate Matter (PM) operated by the WDEQ-AQD and its contractors and details the methodologies to establish precise and accurate measurements at the stations that are operated within the State, regardless of the type of monitoring that is performed. The objective of the PM monitoring network is to provide the necessary information for developing a representative air quality data set capable of determining whether the National and State of Wyoming air quality standards for PM are being exceeded and delineating differences among geographical and climatological regions. The monitored data are used to characterize and monitor trends in air quality and ensure compliance to air quality standards, and may be used for national health assessments, model evaluations, and comparison with other ambient air monitoring data.

Historically, in July 1997, EPA completed its review of evidence on exposure to ambient fine particulates and revised the Particulate Matter – aerodynamic range of less than 10 microns (PM10) National Ambient Air Quality Standard (NAAQS) by creating a PM – aerodynamic range of less than 2.5 microns (PM2.5). EPA determined that the NAAQS would continue to focus on PM10, but also determined that the fine and coarse fractions of PM10 should be considered separately. In 2006, EPA revised the NAAQS for PM with the final standards addressing two (2) categories of PM emissions: PM10 and PM2.5.

The procedures outlined in this QAPP have been developed to meet the goals and objectives of the WDEQ-AQD PM monitoring network. Revisions to the QAPP are made, as necessary, to reflect changes to the regulations or goals of the monitoring network. At a minimum, the QAPP is reviewed and revisions are made as necessary, generally on an annual basis.

The background and rationale for the implementation of the PM2.5 and PM10 ambient air monitoring network can be found in the Federal Register1. In general, some of the findings are listed below:

● The characteristics, sources, and potential health effects of larger or "coarse" particles (from 2.5 to 10 micrometers in diameter) and smaller or "fine" particles (smaller than 2.5 micrometers in diameter) are very different.

● Coarse particles come from sources such as windblown dust from the desert or agricultural fields and dust kicked up on unpaved roads from vehicle traffic.

● Fine particles (i.e., PM2.5) are generally emitted from activities such as industrial and residential combustion and from vehicle exhaust. Fine particles are also formed in the atmosphere from gases such as sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and volatile organic compounds that are emitted from combustion activities and then become particles as a result of chemical transformations in the air.

● Health effects from PM inhalation include premature death and increased hospital admissions and emergency room visits (primarily among the elderly and individuals with cardiopulmonary disease); increased respiratory symptoms and disease (among children and individuals with cardiopulmonary disease such as asthma); decreased lung function (particularly in children and individuals with asthma); and alterations in lung tissue and structure and in respiratory tract defense mechanisms.

According to the WDEQ-AQD Annual Network Plan2, the WDEQ-AQD monitors for PM10 and PM2.5 at numerous stations in Wyoming. Please note that this QAPP only covers WDEQ-AQD monitored PM: the continuous Beta Attenuation Monitors (BAMs), the filter based Federal Reference Method (FRM) and the Chemical Speciation Network (CSN) filter-based instruments. It should be noted that the BAM is a Federal Equivalent Method (FEM). From the 24-hourly readings, daily values are estimated. These daily averages are ranked throughout the calendar year. The CSN samplers are neither FRM nor FEM instruments. The

Section 5

CSN samplers collect samples that are sent to a laboratory for chemical speciation to provide data that can be used for source apportionment.

5.1 National and State of Wyoming Air Quality Standards

The national primary and secondary ambient air quality standard for PM10 is 150 micrograms per cubic meter (µg/m3) 24-hour averaged concentration measured in ambient air. The primary ambient air quality standard for PM2.5 is 9.0 µg/m3 annual arithmetic mean concentration measured in ambient air and 35 µg/m3 24-hour averaged concentration measured in ambient air.

To comply with the 24-hour PM10 NAAQS, a monitor may only have one exceedance (a 24-hour average concentration greater than 150 µg/m3) per year on average over a three-year period. A design value of zero (0) means the station has not recorded any values over 150 µg/m3 during the three-year period.

Wyoming also has an ambient air quality standard for PM10 in its State regulations. Compliance with the annual Wyoming Ambient Air Quality Standards (WAAQS) is determined by the three-year average of the annual mean. The three-year average of the mean must be below 50 µg/m3.

For stations that monitor PM2.5, the primary annual NAAQS and WAAQS is attained when the three-year average does not exceed 9.0 µg/m3. The 24-hour PM2.5 NAAQS and WAAQS is 35 µg/m3. Compliance with this standard is determined from the 3-year average of the 98th percentile concentration.

The WDEQ-AQD’s current PM2.5 network uses a combination of Thermo Scientific Partisol 2000i FRM monitors (Partisol), Met One BAM models 1020 and 1022 FEM analyzers, the Met One SuperSASS, and the URG 3000N CSN instruments. The Partisol monitors are filter-based, meaning that filters capture PM2.5 on an EPA determined 1-in-3-day schedule; those filters are then shipped to a laboratory to be weighed; data from these monitors cannot be shared on a near-real time basis since it can take up to three (3) weeks to get filter weight results. The Partisols in WDEQ-AQD’s network require a WDEQ-AQD Monitoring Specialist or WDEQ-AQD Operator to collect filters and to visit the stations once a month to perform required maintenance. The BAMs are continuous (measuring concentrations each hour) and report data electronically to a database for further validation and can be shared with the public on a near-real time basis. The BAMs in WDEQ-AQD’s Network require a WDEQ-AQD Site Operator, WDEQ- AQD Monitoring Specialist or Contractor Monitoring Specialist to perform a monthly maintenance visit. The Met One Sass and URG 3000N are filter based instruments and require either a WDEQ-AQD Site Operator or WDEQ-AQD Monitoring Specialists to collect filters and a WDEQ-AQD Monitoring Specialist to visit the stations once a month to perform required maintenance.

Figure 2 and Figure 3 below illustrate the WDEQ-AQD past and current PM monitoring stations. As shown in the maps, the PM air monitoring network covers the entire state. It should be noted that not every site measures continuous PM, filter-based monitors or CSN instruments.

Section 5

Figure 2. WDEQ-AQD PM10 Monitoring Site Locations from 1985-2025

Section 5

Figure 3. WDEQ-AQD PM2.5 Monitoring Site Locations from 1998-2025

5.2 Supporting Documentation

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

● 40 CFR Part 58 Appendix A, Quality Assurance Requirements for Monitors Used in Evaluations of

National Ambient Air Quality Standards.3

● EPA’s Quality Assurance Handbook for Air Pollution Measurement Systems, Volume II: Ambient

Air Quality Monitoring Program, EPA-454/B-17-001, January 2017. 4

● Quality Assurance Guidance Document Quality Assurance Project Plan: PM2.5 Chemical

Speciation Sampling at Trends, NCore, Supplemental and Tribal Sites EPA-454/B-12-003 June 20125

● U.S. EPA (1997a) National Ambient Air Quality Standard for Particulate Matter – Final Rule 40 CFR Part 50. Federal Register 62(138): 38651-38760. July 18, 2011.6

● Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality Air Quality Division Standards and Regulations Chapter 2 Ambient Standards

● WDEQ-AQD Annual Network Plan, 20252

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

Section 5 quality and usability.

Section 6

6.0 Project Task Description

6.1 Particulate Matter Measurements.

The analytical principles for PM samplers are twofold: beta attenuation and gravimetric analysis of 26 or 47 mm filters.

BAM technology is based on the difference between the substrate sampling tape that has no PM (blank) and after PM has deposited onto the tape. At the beginning of each sample hour, a small carbon-14 source emits a constant source of high-energy beta rays through a spot of clean filter tape. These beta rays are detected and counted by a sensitive scintillation detector to determine a zero reading (background or blank). The BAM then advances this spot of tape to the sample nozzle, where a vacuum pump pulls a measured and controlled amount of outside air through the filter tape, loading it with ambient dust. At the end of the sample hour, this dust spot is placed back between the beta source and the detector, thereby causing attenuation of the beta signal which is used to determine the mass of the particulate matter on the filter tape. This mass is used to calculate the volumetric concentration of particulate matter in ambient air. For PM10 samplers, the inlets are size selective inlets (SSIs) that separate out PM that is ten (10) microns and smaller. For the continuous PM2.5 sampler, an additional very sharp cut cyclone (VSCC) is installed after the SSI and removes the portion that is PM10 minus PM2.5, which is known as the PMcoarse portion of the PM.

The gravimetric and speciation methods utilize the difference in filter weight before the sampler collects PM and after it has collected PM. Some of the PM2.5 samplers (Thermo 2000i, MetOne E-SEQ, and URG 3000N) have SSI inlets and cyclonic separator VSCC to selectively separate PM2.5 from the rest of the PM10.

However, the Met One SuperSASS speciation sampler only has a VSCC inlet and thus removes all PM above the PM2.5 size.

6.2 Sampling Frequency

Data from the continuous BAM instruments are sampled every hour by the Data Acquisition System (DAS). The DAS then stores the data in hourly increments. These data are then transmitted and reviewed by WDEQ-AQD staff and contractors on a defined interval. The filter based FRM instruments (Thermo Scientific 2000i and MetOne E-SEQ), are operated on a 1-in-3-day schedule. The CSN instruments (Met One SuperSASS and URG 3000N) are operated on a 1 in 3-day schedule.

6.3 Project Schedule

Personnel working on this project are fully qualified, trained, and capable of performing their assigned duties. Work schedules include daily data review; quarterly and semi-annual air quality and meteorological equipment calibrations, respectively; quarterly data summaries within sixty (60) days of quarter completion; annual reports within ninety (90) days of year completion; secondary review of quarterly reports, and maintenance and corrective action.

6.4 Project Reports

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

Section 6

Table 2. Project Reports

Reports Frequency Content Responsible Position

Quarterly Air Quality Reports

Quarterly

Summarizes data following EPA guidelines, includes accuracy and precision

Contractors with review by Project Managers or

AQD Data Validator with review by Project

Manager.

Air Quality Annual Data Report

Annually Summarizes data following EPA guidelines Contractors with review by Project Managers

Performance Audit Reports*

Quarterly/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

Contractors with review by Project Managers or Monitoring Specialists with review by Project

Managers

Response to Corrective Action Reports

As Needed Reports the results of the corrective actions taken

Contractors with review by Project Managers or Monitoring Specialists with review by Project

Managers *Boulder and Cheyenne NCore are audited quarterly.

Section 7

7.0 Quality Objectives and Criteria for Measurement of Data

This section discusses the Data Quality Objectives (DQOs), 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 for 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. Please note that it is outside the scope of this document to discuss whether or not the State of Wyoming, or parts of the state, are in attainment. That distinction is discussed in the WDEQ-AQD Annual Network Plan2. Please refer to that document for the discussion of attainment for PM.

As mentioned, 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 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: precision, bias, representativeness; detectability; completeness; and comparability.

Table 3. DQO Process Write-up

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. 40 CFR Part 502 set the NAAQS and state measures for the NAAQS pollutants. In addition, the State of Wyoming promulgated their own Wyoming Ambient Air Quality Standards

(WAAQS), which are nearly identical to the NAAQS. The State must comply with these standards and thus measure in various locations to meet the requirements.

Step 2. Identify the Goal of the Study

Not only does the State of Wyoming have to measure for these NAAQS pollutants, they must adhere to the level of the standard (attainment

vs. nonattainment as promulgated in 40 CFR Part 507).

Step 3. Identify Information Input

The input information is the hourly (BAM) and daily (speciated and gravimetric) PM data that are collected at the locations where PM is monitored

(see Appendix B).

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DQO Step Output to Discussion by Decision Makers

Step 4. Define the Boundaries of the Study The boundary of the study is the entire State of

Wyoming. This applies to the WDEQ-AQD Primary Quality Assurance Organization (PQAO).

Step 5. Develop the Analytical Approach

The WDEQ-AQD will collect PM data (hourly BAM, gravimetric and chemical speciation) at designated monitoring locations, as stated in Appendix B. At the end of the year, the WDEQ-

AQD will review, analyze, and certify that the data collected within the state networks 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, (hourly BAM and gravimetric), can be used to ascertain if the State of Wyoming is within nonattainment or attainment status for the NAAQS and WAAQS. In addition, if the CSN data collected adhere to their performance criteria for the chemical speciation

PM2.5 data, then this data can be used to perform source apportionment to understand the sources of fine particulate in the State of Wyoming. The results of these decisions are discussed in detail within the WDEQ-AQD Annual Network Plan2.

Step 7. Develop the Plan for Obtaining Data

Having developed these DQOs, the WDEQ-AQD has developed this PM QAPP and SOPs 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 DQIs are a set of indicators that can be easily measured. For instance, precision and bias can be calculated using statistical methods upon the data. The other DQIs are either inherent in the PM instrument or indicate how the samples are handled and analyzed.

Here is a discussion of each DQI:

● Precision - a measure of agreement among repeated measurements of the same property under identical, or substantially similar, conditions. This is the random component of error. Precision is estimated by a statistical technique typically using a derivation of the standard deviation.

Precision is determined based on measurement uncertainty as defined as 10 percent coefficient of variation (CV) for total precision based on comparison of the 24-hour PM samplers (both continuous and filter based) that are collocated at the same location or a check of total flow rate.

● Bias - the systematic or persistent distortion of a measurement process, which causes error in one direction. Bias will be determined by estimating the positive and negative deviation from the true value. Bias is determined by using the paired data and is measured as +/- 10 percent for total bias. For the gravimetric instruments (Thermo 2000i, which is a FRM), the EPA or its designee will place a mobile Performance Evaluation (PE) gravimetric sampler, next to the station sampler.

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Both samplers (PE and station samplers) will collect samples on the same day, typically for twenty-four (24) hours. The EPA designee will then retrieve the sample and ship it to an independent laboratory for gravimetric analysis. The site sampler will be operated in its normal fashion and the sample collected on its normal schedule. The WDEQ-AQD will send the gravimetric data to EPA via the Air Quality System (AQS) for comparison with the EPA sampler.

For the CSN instruments (Met One SuperSASS and URG 3000N) and the BAM instruments, the bias is calculated using the flow rate of samplers against a NIST traceable flow device. The goal for acceptable bias is <15.0%.

● Detection Limit - the lowest concentration or amount of the target analytic that can be determined to be different from zero by a single measurement at a stated level of probability.

This is performed by analyzing the blank tape of the BAM instrument and field blanks that travel with the samples from and to the analytical laboratory.

● 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. Data completeness requirements are generally 75% of all possible samples in a given time frame.

● Comparability - generally falls under the auspice of equipment specifications and monitoring methods. For continuous PM, only Federal Equivalent Method (FEM) instruments are used for the collection of PM10 and PM2.5 data. The methodology used is to draw the air samples through an inlet and downtube into the instrument with the PM being deposited upon Teflon tape. For the FRM Thermo 2000i, this also falls under the auspice of the equipment specifications as set forth by the EPA that creates the FRM designation.

● Representativeness - this DQI deals with whether or not the location of the PM instrument represents the type of monitoring that is necessary—i.e., whether the station is sited appropriately for the objective. This is further discussed in Section 7.3 below.

● Accuracy - a measure of the overall agreement of a measurement to a known value, including a combination of random error (precision) and systematic error (bias) components of sampling.

7.3 Representativeness of the Particulate Matter Measurements

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

● EPA’s Quality Assurance Handbook for Air Pollution Measurement Systems, Volume II: Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Program, EPA-454/B-17-001, January 20174.

● 40 CFR 58, Appendices A and E 3, 8.

The sites that were selected to house the PM instruments were selected to be as representative as possible to the general region of interest. Placement of monitors considered local interferences; distance to structures, trees, and roadways; and height of probe above ground.

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Table 4. DQIs for PM10 Beta Attenuation Monitors

Parameter (Manufacturer/Model)

Requirement Frequency Acceptance Criteria Reference Data Completeness

PM10 Met One BAM 1020

Average PM10 flow rate Every 24 hours of operation Average within <±5.1% of design Recommendation

DEQ/AQD Objective 90% EPA Requirement 75%

Temperature Monthly <±2.1°C 40 CFR Part 50, App. L Sec.

9.39 Pressure Monthly <±10.1 mmHg

Calibration (PM10) Annually 3 of 4 calibration points within <±10.1% of design 40 CFR Part 50, App. J, Section 8.09

One-point PM10 Flow rate verified.

Monthly with at least 14 days between verifications

<±7.1% of transfer standard

Action Limit: <±3.1%

40 CFR Part 58, App. A, Section 3.33

Monthly Leak Check Monthly <1.5 lpm (acceptance limit) <1.0 lpm (action limit)

40 CFR Part 50, App. L, Sec. 7.4.6.1

Annual Zero Test Annually Std. Dev. <3.5 μg/m3 Recommendation: Std.

Dev. Not defined in Operators manual

Annual Calibration Temp and pressure

On installation, then 365 days and once a calendar year

Temp: <2.1°C Pressure: <10 mmHg

40 CFR Part 50, App. L, Sec. 9.3

Semi-annual flow rate Every six months <±10.1% of audit Std. Dev.

40 CFR Part 58, App. A, Sec. 3.3.3

Reporting Units μg/m3 NA 40 CFR Part 50, App. N9

Sampling Period Every Sampling Day 1440 min. ±60 min.

Midnight to Midnight 40 CFR Part 50, App. J, Sec. 7.1.510

Clock Timer Verification Monthly 5 min./Month Per Operators manual

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Table 5. DQIs for PM2.5 Beta Attenuation Monitors

Parameter (Manufacturer/Model)

Requirement Frequency Acceptance Criteria Reference Data Completeness

PM2.5 Met One BAM 1020 & 1022

Average PM2.5 flow rate Every 24 hours of operation Average within <±5% of

16.67 lpm 40 CFR Part 50, App. L, Sec. 7.4.3.19

DEQ/AQD Objective 90% EPA Requirement 75%

PM2.5 Calibration Annually <±2.1% of transfer standard 40 CFR Part 50, App. L, Sec. 9.29

One-Point PM2.5 Flow rate verified.

Monthly with at least 14 days between verifications

<±4.1% of transfer standard

<±5.1% of flow rate design value

Action Limit: <±3.1%

40 CFR Part 58, App. A, Section 3.33

Variability in flow rate (24 hours)

Every 24 hours of operation

CV<2.1%

40 CFR Part 50, App. L, Sec. 7.4.3.2

Monthly Leak Check Monthly <1.5 lpm (acceptance limit) <1.0 lpm (action limit)

40 CFR Part 50, App. L, Sec. 7.4.6.1

Annual Calibration Temp and pressure

Annually Temp: <2.1°C

Pressure: <10.1 mmHg 40 CFR Part 50, App. L, Sec. 9.3

Semi-annual flow rate Every six months

<±4.1% of transfer standard

<±5.1% of flow rate design value

40 CFR Part 58, App. A, Sec. 3.3.3

Zero Test Annually Std. Dev. <2.4 μg/m3 Per Operators manual

Annual Zero Test Annually Std. Dev. <3.5 μg/m3 Recommendation: Std.

Dev. Not defined in Operators manual

Reporting Units μg/m3 NA 40 CFR Part 50, App. N9

Sampling Period Every Sampling Day 1440 min. ±60 min.

Midnight to Midnight 40 CFR Part 50, App. J, Sec. 7.1.510

Clock Timer Verification Monthly 5 min./Month Per Operators manual

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Table 6. DQIs for PM2.5 Filter Based Methods

Parameter (Manufacturer/Model)

Requirement Frequency Acceptance

Criteria Reference

Data Completeness

PM2.5 – Thermo Scientific 2000i and

MetOne E-SEQ

Annual Performance

Evaluation Annually

<15% between EPA sampler and station sampler

40 CFR Part 58 App. A Section

3.2.73

DEQ/AQD

Objective 90%

EPA

Requirement

75%

Semi-Annual Flow Rate

Audit

Every six months

<15% between EPA sampler and station sampler

40 CFR Part 58 App. A Section

3.2.73

Post Sampling Conditioning and Weighing

Annually

<10 days from sample end date if shipped at ambient temp or <30 days if shipped below avg.

ambient (or 4°C or below for avg.

sampling temps <4°C) from sample end date

40 CFR Part 50 App. L Sec.

8.3.6

Transport Temperature

Continuous

Protected from exposure to temperatures above 25°C from sample retrieval to conditioning

40 CFR Part 58 App. A Sec.

3.2.73

Temperature Audit

Semi Annually <±2.1°C 40 CFR Part 50 App. L Sec. 9.3

Pressure Audit Semi Annually <±10.1 mmHg 40 CFR Part 50 App. L Sec. 9.3

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Parameter (Manufacturer/Model)

Requirement Frequency Acceptance

Criteria Reference

Data Completeness

Precision of Collocated Samples

Every 90 days CV<10.1% for values>3.0 μg/m3

40 CFR Part 58 App. A Sec.

4.2.1

Sampling Period

All filters

1380-1500 minutes midnight to midnight

40 CFR Part 50 App. L Sec.

3.39

Leak Check Every 30 days 80.1 mL/min 40 CFR Part 50

App. L Sec.

7.4.6.19

Average Flow Rate

Every 24 hours of operation

Average within <±5% of 16.67 liters per minute (LPM)

40 CFR Part 50 App. L Sec.

7.4.3.19

Variability in Flow Rate

Every 24 hours of operation

CV ≤2%

40 CFR Part 50 App. L Sec.

9.2.59

One-point Flow Rate

Verification Monthly

±4.1% of transfer standard

±5.1% of flow rate design value

40 CFR Part 50 App. L Sec.

9.2.69

Calibration Once per quarter

<±2.1% of design flow rate

40 CFR Part 50 App. L Sec.

9.2.69

PM2.5 – Met One SuperSASS

Leak Check Every 30 days ≤0.1 LPM Per Operators

Manual Section 6.0

DEQ/AQD

Objective 90%

EPA

Requirement

75%

One-point Flow Rate

Verification Monthly

±10% of transfer and design standards

Per Operators Manual

Section 3.4.7

Calibration Annually <±10% of transfer and design

Per Operators Manual

Section 6.3

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Parameter (Manufacturer/Model)

Requirement Frequency Acceptance

Criteria Reference

Data Completeness

Temperature Monthly <±2.1°C Per Operators

Manual Section 3.4.4

Pressure Monthly <±10.1 mmHg Per Operators

Manual Section 3.4.5

PM2.5 – URG-3000N

Leak Check Every 30 days ≤225 mmHg Per Operators

Manual Section 8.2

DEQ/AQD

Objective 90%

EPA

Requirement

75%

One-point Flow Rate

Verification Monthly

±10% of transfer and design standards

Per Operators Manual

Section 8.3

Calibration Annually <±10% of transfer and design

Per Operators Manual

Section 6.0

Temperature Monthly <±2.1°C Per Operators

Manual Section 8.4

Pressure Monthly <±10.1 mmHg Per Operators

Manual Section 8.5

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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. All WDEQ-AQD staff will follow the WDEQ-AQD APMP’s training plan and provide proper documentation and tracking.

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

As part of a QA program, the procedures should include information on:

● Personnel qualifications - general and position-specific

● Training requirements - by position

● Frequency of training

Appropriate training is available to employees supporting the APMP, commensurate with their duties.

Such training may consist of classroom lectures, workshops, web-based courses, teleconferences, and vendor-provided and on-the-job training. Training also includes 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 those training requirements.