Commissioner's Column: New NHDES Program Helps Citizen Scientists Track Air Quality

A recent increase in interest in air quality monitoring by citizen scientists combined with the introduction of low-cost sensors in the private market has led to an exciting time for local data gathering. The NHDES Air Resources Division has begun a new program to help encourage these efforts while simultaneously ensuring that the data collected is accurate.

Although this type of citizen monitoring is not a substitute for the regulatory air monitoring done by NHDES and other New England states, it can provide valuable information on local changes in air pollution levels. Over the past decade or so, many low-cost sensors have entered the private market so that anybody can monitor the air quality in their area of interest. However, some citizen scientists may not have the expertise and experience needed to properly install the monitor and interpret the data. This can lead to unintended inaccuracy and uncertainty in the results.  

NHDES has structured its new Citizen Air Monitoring Program (CAMP) around one of the more popular options, a monitor from PurpleAir which detects fine particulate matter (particulate matter less than 2.5 microns in diameter, or PM2.5). Through this program, private PurpleAir owners can register their outdoor sensor(s) into a network of units that are quality assured by NHDES air pollution scientists. The program provides installation guidance, quality assured data, and a live air quality map to citizen scientists throughout New Hampshire.

In this way, CAMP is a win-win: PurpleAir owners gain access to installation suggestions, maintenance tips, and the knowledge that their data is part of a network that is regularly reviewed by state air pollution authorities. And NHDES is provided valuable information so that it can better understand local air pollution levels. Understanding these variations helps NHDES air pollution scientists improve and refine their air quality notifications to the public and assists NHDES staff in identifying communities that may be overburdened by air pollution.

Registration with CAMP is free and easy, and NHDES air pollution scientists are available to help with installation and maintenance of the PurpleAir units. Once registered, PurpleAir owners will be able to see their sensor data on NHDES' live air quality map and gain access to archived, quality assured data.