Author(s): Shelby Elkins , Dawn Estrella , Dr. Sondra Miller

Presentation: poster

The long-term goal of this research is to identify chemical signatures and masses of particulate matter (PM) in the atmosphere and to potentially pinpoint the local and regional origins of known contaminants. This summer, we examined atmospheric PM samples in areas representing varying populations—urban and rural—by comparing data from two local sites. One site represents an urban environment, where samples are collected daily from the roof of a Boise State University building at an approximate elevation of 2,800 feet. A second represents a rural environment where samples are collected weekly from the Dry Creek Experimental Watershed, located north of Boise, Idaho at an approximate elevation of 5,500 feet. We can compare the effects of population on PM concentrations from both urban and rural locations from these two sets of data. Atmospheric pollution is relevant to public health because it affects drinking water and respiratory health. We expect to find smaller particulates and higher concentrations in urban areas than rural areas. We also seek to monitor effects on air quality due to large natural events, both weather-related and human-caused, during and following events. This project was funded by the National Science Foundation, Grant #DMR 1359344.

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