United States Air and Radiation EPA 420-R-97-0 

Environmental Prott ction September 1997 

Agency 

&EPA Technical 

• 

Report 

Survey and Review of 

Episodic Control 

Programs in the United 

States 

• 
United States Air and Radiation 

Environmental Proti ction 

Agency 

&EPA Technical 

Report 

EPA 420-R-97-003 

September 1997 

Survey and Review . of 

Episodic Control 

Programs in the United 

States 
Contents 

1 INTRODUCTION ..................................................................................... . 

Survey of Programs ................................................................................... . 

Program Benefits ............ · ........................................................................... . 

Episodic Control Program Study Methodology and Results ....................... . 

2 STUDY l\ifETHODOLOGY ...................................................................... . 

Phase I-Initial Scoping Study ................................. ~ ................................. . 

Phase II-Survey of Episodic Control Programs ........................................ . 

Phase ill of the Study ................................................................................ . 

3 PHASE II-STUDY FINDmGS .............................................................. . 

Extent and Scope of Episodic Control Programs ........................................ . 

Components of a Program ............... ·: ......... : ................... ~ .......................... . 

4 PL.AN'S FOR PHASE ill ..................... ; ..................................................... . 

The San Francisco Bay Area and Sacramento Programs ............................. . 

The Cincinnati Program ............................................................................. . 

The Dallas Program ................................................................................... . 

The Baltimore-Washington Program ......................................................... . 

Appendix A: Episodic Control Program Contacts 

Appendix B: Episodic Control Program Fact Sheet 

Appendix C: Episodic Control Program Profiles 

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10 

12 

12 

12 

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21 

31 

49 

49 

50 

50 

51 
1 INTRODUCTION 

The implementation of episodic emission control programs is becoming increasingly popular 

across the country as an innovative approach to reduce emissions of ozone precursors, carbon 

monoxide, and particulate matter. Motivation for implementaticl'\ of this type of program often 

stems from local government and business concerns about the attainment status of the area and 

the restrictions, additional controls, and costs associated with reclassification. Many areas are 

also motivated by public health concerns and believe that increasing the amount of air quality 

information available to sensitive populations raises awareness and results in significant health 

benefits. Specific goals which are usually associated with episodic control programs include: 

• Educate the public 

• Attain air quality standards (NAAQS) 

• Meet specific emission reduction targets 

• Manage/reduce congestion. 

• Maintain economic benefits associated with attainment status 

• Protect public health 

• Maintain air quality standards 

Episodic emission control programs, which are being implemented in 40 U.S. cities, are usually 

voluntary and generally provide multiple steps that the public (and/or industry) can take to reduce 

emissions after certain meteorological conditions are forecast to occur. The programs emphasize 

educating the public about the impact of individual activities on local air quality and the basics of 

air pollution (e.g., good ozone vs. bad). The education programs are aimed at informirig the 

public of activities to reduce pollution on both an intennittent "episodic" basis (e.g., i:eduction of 

trips, postponement of certain ·activities) and on a longer term basis (maintenance of cars). 

SURVEY OF PROGRAMS 

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is authorized by the Clean Air Act Amendments to 

initiate, in a cost-effective manner, programs that will reduce-emissions of pollutants that are a 

threat to public health. Ozone pollution and certain air toxics, such as particulate matter, are 

subjects of particular concern. The increasing interest in episodic programs has t>rompted the 

EPA to develop a more thorough understanding of the episodic programs currently in place in 

order to identify their ability to reduce emissions of pollutants. Specifically, the EPA: is interested 

in obtaining information on program elements and design, implementation, incentives to 

encourage participation, participation levels, unit emission reductions, unit cost, and any program 

evaluations that may have been completed .. 

Under contract to the EPA;ICF is ~ollecting data on episodic control programs currently 

implemented or under development across the country. Almost uniformly, people contacted 

during this project have expressed a great deal of interest in the results of this work and support 

the EPA's efforts in this area. Figure 1-1 identities where the episodic control programs for 

ozone, carbon monoxide, and PM10 that have been established or are being developed for 40 
Status as of July 1996 

e Attainment 

+ Nonattainment 

-I 

-
different areas in the U.S. Table 1-1 lists each of the programs, the specific P.Ollutants the 

programs target, and the attainment status of the programs' areas. 

This report summarizes the infonnation obtained on episodic control programs in place as of 

September 1996. Phase I of the study involved an initial scoping task which utyolved gathering 

information about existing programs through phone interviews. Phase II of th~ study involved a 

more in-depth data collection program which resulted in the development of d~tailed program 

profiles for each episodic program. The methodology and· analysis of the data collected in the 

study are presented in the remainder of the report. The following sections disdiss some of the 

benefits of episodic control programs. 

PROGRAM BENEFITS 

With implementation of episodic control programs, three distinct, but related, types of benefits 

can occur: 

• Reduction of Emissions/Improvement of Air Quality 

• Public Education 

• Health Benefits 

Intermittent controls are appealing to areas that have significant emissions ftom sources such as 

onroad vehicles, which are traditionally difficult to reduce due to driver behavior. The programs 

may also offer additional emission reductions-that historically are not easily obtained on an 

ongoing basis-during a time when the impacts of emission reductions are the most critical. 

Continuing public education efforts may also reduce emissions over the long term due to 

increased public awareness of the air quality impacts of changed behavior. These public education 

efforts serve the general public and help them to understand their role in air quality planning. The 

education component of these programs also helps to create a strong link between environmental 

goals (attainment) and associated public health benefits. It is yet unclear that "significant'' 

emission reductions occur due to episodic controls or that these programs have "significant" 

public health benefits, although anecdotal evidence from some programs supports these assertions· 

and at a minimum, raised public awareness in groups.that are susceptible to high ambient 

concentration has positive impacts when these groups limit their activities on alert days. The 

following sections discuss the expected benefits from episodic control programs in more detail. 

Reduction of Emissions/Air Quality Impact Benefits 

Most episodic control programs are designed to limit the number of exceedances of the ozone (or 

other ttiteria-polluiattt) standard, and therefore should have a positiVe. impact on aU"quality. When 

episodic control days are forecast, notification through various means (TV, radio, etc.) is 

undertaken to raise awareness of the general public and induce individuals to make behavioral 

changes. Emission reductions associated with changes in individual behavior can be significant if 

a large number of individuals reduce activities associated with production of emissions (e.g. 

driving, use of small engines, refueling). 

Long-term emission reduction measures which are currently in place (e.g. from fleet turnover) are 

expected to lower long-term average (annual average) concentrations of pollutants in urban 
TABLE 1-l. E isodic control identified in this stud 

Pollutant 

rea Name Tar eted Attainment Status o Area 1 

Albuquerque, NM Winter Pollution Advisory co Nonattainment (moderate) 

Atlanta. GA Ozone Advisory Ozone Nonattajnment (serious) 

Austin, TX Clean Air Force Ozone Attainment 

Baltimore. MD Ozone Action Days Ozone Nonattainment (severe) 

Baton Rouge, LA 2 Ozone Action Ozone Nonattainment (serious) 

Beaumont/Port Arthur, TX Ozone Action Days Ozone Nonattainment (moderate) 

Charlotte, NC Ozone Awareness Ozone Attainment 

Chicago, IL Ozone Action Days Ozone Nonattainment (severe) 

Cincinnati, OH Smog Alert Ozone Nonattainment (moderate) 

Cleveland, OH Ozone Action Day Ozone Attainment (maintenance) 

Corpus Christi. TX Ozone Action Days Ozone Attainment 

Dallas/Ft Worth. TX Ozone Alert .Ozone Nonattainmeilt (moderate) 

Denver, CO High Pollution Advisory PM Nonattainment (moderate) 

Detroit, MI Ozone Action Days Ozone Attainment 

Gazy, IN Partners for Clean Air Ozone Nonattainment (severe) 

Houston/Galveston, TX Clean Air Action Ozone Nonattainment (severe) 

Indianapolis. IN Partners for Clean Air Ozone Nonattainmeut (moderate) 

Longview/MarsbalJ/I'yler, TX Northeast Texas Air care Ozone Attainment 

Louisville, KY 2 Partners for Clean Air Ozone Nonattainment (moderate) 

Milwaukee. WI Ozone Action Ozone Nonattainment (severe) 

Northwest (Mt Vernon), WA Woodsmoke Curtailment PM· Attaimnent 

Olympia. WA Woodsmoke Curtailment PM Nonattainment (moderate) 

PbiladelplUa. PA Ozone Action Ozone Nonattainment (severe) 

Phoenix. AZ. Ozone High Air Pollution Advisory Ozone Nonattainment (moderate) 

Phoenix, AZ. Residential Woodbuming Restriction co Nonatt3inment (serious) 

Pittsbmgh, PA Ozone Action Ozone Nonattainmcnt (moderate) 

Portland, OR Clean Air Action Days Ozone Nonattainment (marginal) 

Puget Sound (Seattle), WA Woodsmoke Curtailment PM Nonattainment (moderate) 

Puget Sound (Seattle), WA Smog Watch Ozone Nonattainment (marginal) 

Richmond/Colonial Heights. VA Ozone-Advisory Ozone Nonattainment {moderate) 

Sacramento, CA Spare the Air Ozone Nonattainment (severe) 

San Antonio, TX Ozone Action Days Ozone Attainment 

San Francisco, CA Spare the Air Ozone Attainment 

San Joaquin Valley, CA Spare the Air Ozone Nonattainment (serious) 

South Bend, IN Partners for Clean Air 07.one Attainment 

Spokane, WA Wood Stove Curtailment PM N'onattainment (moderate) 

St Louis.MO Regional Clean Air Partnership Ozone Nonattainment {moderate) 

Toledo, OH Ozone Action Day Ozone Attainment 

Tulsa, OK Ozone Alen Ozone 

Washington. D.C. Ozone Action Days Ozone 

1 Attainment status as of iuly 1996. 

2 Program was not. reviewed in detail because only limited data were available at the time of this study. 
,5 

areas, but may not be enough to completely avoid violations of short-term stapdards ( 1 hour or 8 

hour average) during severe episodic meteorological conditions. Because episodic controls have 

been designed to reduce emissions by larger amounts for shorter periods, they have the potential 

of being more effective in reducing short-term air quality violations. 

To stay in attainment of air quality standards, areas must reduce and eventually eliminate the 

number of air quality violations. Activities which cannot be eliminated on a long-term basis (such 

as lawn maintenance or tank refilling) can be restricted on alert days and result in reductions of 

emissions and subsequent improvement of air quality. The individual costs of these reductions 

should be more easily absorbed than the more sizable costs associated with additional long-term 

stationary source controls. The more episodic nature of the application of these controls should 

also be more acceptable to the general public, thus resulting in more individual compliance than 

long-tenn restrictions in driving or in gasoline usage. · 

Impacts ofNonattainrnent Designation -The Cincinnati Example 

Several episodic control programs are being implemented in areas that are making effort to come 

into attainment or to maintain their attainment status. Many areas consider the costs of 

redesignation to non"".attainment or a more stringent nonattainment level to be significant. This 

fact alone has encouraged many areas to implement episodic control programs. 

As an example, the Cincinnati Gas and Electric (now part of Cinergy Corp.) and the Regional 

Cincinnati Ozone Coalition retained National Economic Research Associates, Inc.(NERA) to 

estimate the economic impacts associated with 

the introduction of more stringent emission 

controls which would likely be included in a 

revised ozone State Implementation Plan (SIP). 

Nonattainment Area Requinments 

Requirements for Moderate Areas 

The analysis examined the Cincinnati MSA and • 

the potential economic impacts to the area-a • 

moderate nonattainment area-should the • 

current SIP fail to bring the MSA into attainment • 

by 1996. For moderate ozone nonattainment • 

areas, sources emitting more than 100 tons per • 

year (tpy) are subject to control. Redesignation • 

to serious would require sources emitting SO tpy • 

to apply additional control measures. The •" 

NERA analysis identified that additional control • 

State Implementation Plans (SIPs) 

Contingency Measures 

Emission Inventories 

New Source Review (NSR)program 

l/Mprogram 

Stage II gasoline vapor recovery (ozone) 

Confonnity (Transportation & General) 

VMT tracking 

Oxygenated fuels (CO) 

RACT required for major sources 

strategies sufficient to reduce voe emissions by 

approximately 13 percent beyond current efforts 

would be required. The report noted that the 

current attainment strategy utilizes the most cost 

effective approaches and, therefore, additional 

measures are chosen from less cost effective 

Additional Requirements for S,erious Areas 

• Measures (TCMs) to offset VMT growth 

• Clean Fuel Fleet program 

• Best Available Control Measures (BACM) 

strategies. The combined effect of these additional controls, the curr~t 1 s percent reduction 

plan, and federally mandated controls would require a 53 percent reduction in voes. The 

conclusions listed in the NERA report include: 
6 

• Additional VOC emissions controls would increase operating and capital costs for 

manufacturing and service industries by approximately $23 million annually. 

• These costs could jeopardize as many as 1,900 jobs in the short tenn. 

• Refonnulated gasoline and other related auto measures could cost households in the area 

between $63 and $89 million per year. 

• Additional emission restrictions could prevent the construction of new facilities and 

economic growth could be curtailed. NERA estinlates that, based on current forecasts, a 

strict limit on manufacturing expansion imposed in 1996 could mean as many as 12, 700 job 

losses by the end of the century. 

• Additional impacts could be realized if NOx reductions are required. 

Figure 1-2 displays the estimated contribution of point, area and mobile sources to VOC 

emissions for the Cincinnati MSA 

50 

40 

c 30 

~. 

:. 

Mobile 

Sources 

FIGURE 1-2. Distribution of Cincinnati emission sources in 1990 and 1996. 

It is interesting to note that area sources-lawn mowers and other small engines as well as 

household use of solvents in painting, cooking, and hygiene-are estimated to overtake mobile 

sources as the primary contributor to voe emissions in the area. The episodic control program 

in place in the Cincinnati area, which requests that participants reduce operation of small engines 

like lawn and garden equipment, targets reduction of these emissions directly. The Cincinnati 

case is one example of how implementation of an episodic control program can help to improve 

air quality and maintain economic health. 

Flexible Attainment Region Designation 

As a consequence of becoming a nonattainment area, some urban areas around the country have 

developed a unique method of air quality planning. On August 22, 1995, the EPA created the 

first Flexible Attainm~t Region (FAR) to help Tulsa, Okiahoma avoid being designated a 

nonattainment area for ozone. Corpus Christi and Tyler/Longview, TX followed Tulsa's example 

and were designated FARs in 1996. The FAR policy gives localities~ risk of becoming a 
7 

nonattainment area additional means to stay in attainment by allowing them to develop and 

implement a package of locally tailored control measures. As part of the agreement, the EPA will 

suspend redesignation of the area to nonattainment in order to allow enough time for these 

measures take effect. A key component of the FAR redesignations to date has been an agreement 

by the area to implement an episodic control program. The FAR designation is a good example of 

a formal mechanism that attainment areas can use to work with EPA and recei~e some 

recognition of their episodic control program. · 

Because the FAR concept is still so new, specific criteria have not yet been established on how to 

qualify to become a FAR or on what measures should be included in a FAR proposal. From the 

Tulsa and Corpus Christi examples, however, several observations can be made about the main 

components of such programs. At the center of the Tulsa and Corpus Christi FAR proposals is a 

multi-stage control measure package that includes voluntary, non-enforceable measures as well as 

mandatory, enforceable measures. The main component of these control packages is the 

immediate implementation and/or expansion of the area's episodic control programs. The 

programs call for other measures of increasing stringency to be implemented in agreed-upon 

stages if the NAAQS continue to be violated. In the event of an exceedance of the ozone 

standard, several other non-enforceable measures are implemented. These include smoking 

vehicle hotlines, car care clinics, ozone information hotlines, and employee commute option 

awareness programs. In Tulsa, if exceedances continue, additional enforceable measures, such as 

mandating a maximum 8.2 R VP for gasoline and enhancements to vehicle inspection programs, 

are then put into effect. Many of the mandatory enforceable measures will require a SIP revision, 

while the voluntary measures can be implemented immediately.· 

To date, FAR designations have been given to areas that are close to nonattainment. The FAR 

designation is an incentive for these areas that encourages voluntary emission reductions rather 

than enforced mandatory reductions. Not only will areas receiving this designation be given more 

flexibility in developing pollution abatement programs; if the program is succ~ they will 

avoid the economic losses which can accompany redesignation to nonattainment. In addition to 

Tulsa and Corpus Christi, other areas (Oklahoma City, OK) have also found the FAR designation 

to fit into their all: quality planning process and are in the process of applying for the FAR 

designation. 

The initiation of an episodic control program requires an intensive public education and outreach 

component. Because these programs are typicallytvolunwy, individual behavioral changes are 

required in order for the program to be effective. Employers., employees, and the general public 

need to be made aware of a problem (e.g., poor air quality) and, a list of activities that, if undertaken, may help to mitigate the problem~( e.g., car pooling, refueling at ~ght). Public education 
8 

Public Education Benefits 

benefits occur in three parts: ( 1) the public is educated about air pollutants and their effects, (2) 

the public becomes aware of the regulatory agencies' role in improving air quality and the 

existence of the episodic control 

program, and (3) the public begins to 

understand how their individual behavioral changes can affect environmental 

quality. Each part provides positive 

benefits, with the last being the most 

significant. Public education programs 

for episodic programs may also increase 

the public's overall environmental 

awareness and help them understand 

(and support) other environmental 

programs such as vehicle Inspection and 

Maintenance. 

Health Benefits 

In addition to reduced pollutant 

exposure of the general population due 

to improved air quality on episode days, 

there are other health benefits directly 

associated with episodic control 

programs. Several population groups · 

are more susceptible to the detrimental 

health effects of ground level ozone: the 

elderly, children, and asthmatics. 

General public education or programs 

Public Education Surveys 

Surveys are most often used to gauge the 

awareness of the public to the program and 

often pre- and post- tests are used to evaluate 

the effectiveness of any outreach campaign. 

The surveys should. at a minimum, measure 

the public awareness of the program and the 

level of behavioral change that occurs on an 

episodic control day. Other behavioral 

changes that can be measured to indicate 

additional benefits include: 

1. Any continuation of behavioral changes 

during alert days, 

2. Any increased number of emission reduction activities included in an individual's 

response to an alert day, 

3. .AJJy additional outreach provided by 

individuals in discussions with colleagues 

or fiunily, and 

· 4. Any increased non-episodic control activities that improve environmental quality 

(e.g., recycling). 

directly targeting these groups may provide the most significant benefits of any facet of an episodic control program. Early awareness of a potential high ozone day may help these groups limit 

their outdoor activities and therefore limit their potential for overexposure. 

The American Lung Association (ALA~ has measured the effects of ozone on emergency room 

visits. 1 Its report finds that ground level ozone is linked With 10,000 to 15,000 hospital 

admissions for respiratory conditions (including asthma, pneumonia, influenza, bronchitis, and 

· chronic obstructive pu!mQnary disease) in 13 cities during the 1993 and 1994 high ozone seasons. 

The report links 30,000 to 50,000 emergency room visits with high ozone levels, and cites 

increasing evidence that these effects occur at levels at or below the current ozone standards. 

Many cities, such as Los Angeles and Houston, continue.to exceed the 0.12 ppm summertime 

standard. Figure 1-3 displays ozone standard violation days for the 13 MSAs in the 

1 Factors associated with the data limit the rq>c>n's ability to provide definitive conclusions, such as inconsistencies 

in data collection. variability among socioeconomic groups in the use of hospitals or private care. diff'ere.nccs in 

ozone exposure and susceptibility to ozone exposure, and limited epidemiological studies on the effects of ozone 

exposure. Ambient Ozone Exposun and Emergency Hospital Admissions and E!Mrgency Room Visits for 

Respiratory Problems in Thirteen U.S. Cities, Ozkaynak, Haluk, et al., Harvard University School of Public Health, 

1996, prepared for the American Lung Association. 1726 M Street. NW, Suite 912, Washington, DC 20036-

4502. . . 
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•ozone Exceedances (1893) aozono Exceedances (1894) •Emergency Room Visits 
10 

ALA study in 1993 and 1994. The report also recommends that the EPA and states develop 

additional communication and outreach programs during high ozone periods. 2 

The ALA study highlights the specific link between ground-level ozone concentrations and acute 

responses by susceptible populations. While the principal investigators note that their 

methodology does not account for all factors (e.g., demographics, race, and other factors 

associated with the use of emergency rooms), the results do indicate that high concentrations of 

ground-level ozone can be statistically associated with emergency room visits and hospital 

admissions. Implementation of effective episodic control programs can mitigate these effects in 

three direct ways. ( 1) Communication and outreach programs can inform the public-and 

specific susceptible subpopulations-about the potential public health risks due to increases in 

ground-level ozone. (2) Accurate forecasting and subsequent notification of alert days can aUow 

these subpopulations to change their behavior to limit their exposure. (3) The long-term impact 

of the episodic control program may reduce ambient concentrations of ground-level ozone and 

further reduce the exposure to susceptible populations and all other residents. 

Figure 1-3 diagrams two sets of information taken from the ALA study. Ozone standard violation 

days for each of the studied cities are shown (vertical bars in ascending order) using the available 

data from 1993 or 1994. The average emergency room visits associated with ground level ozone 

(calculated by the investigators) are displayed using diamonds. Note that factors such as 

population density may account for the differences between the two sets of data for each city. 

For example, New York appears to have a much higher number of estimated ER visits than other 

cities with similar number of exceedences. 

The ALA study investigators do not take the additional step of calculating the potential costs of 

these hospital events. The costs of the acute events identified in the study-ER visits and hospital 

admissions-are high and represent some of the most significant, quantifiable benefits potentially 

attributable to effective episodic control programs. Additional benefits could also be realized if 

the reduction in acute events mitigates the long-tenn prognosis of chronic disease conditions 

(e.g., asthma). 

EPISODIC CONTROL PROGRAM STUDY METHODOLOGY AND RESULTS 

The remainder of this document describes the procedures used to complete the survey of episodic 

programs and the results of the analysis. The'il)ethodology used to collect data on the programs 

is presented in Section 2 .. A list of the contacts for each of the programs is included in Appendix 

A and a copy of the information request send to each 60ntact is included in Appendix B. Most of 

these programs are voluntary, include control measures for both onro~ mobile and nonroad 

sources, a!ld involve participation of the general public, local employ~~~d ,statiopary~so.urces:­

An analysis of the data collected for all programs was performed to identify general trends among 

the programs. The findings from this analysis are presented in Section 3. In addition, individual 

episodic program profiles were developed which summarize the key characteristics of each city's 

program (Appendix C). Specific details described for each program include: episodic program 

design, control measures suggested, methods used to implement the program, incentives to 

encourage participation, participation levels, forecasting methods and any information on program 

2 Some areas do not "warn" the public on a.ten ctaYs. The goal of these programs is to incR3Se awareness about 

ground level ozone and the behavioral changes that can red~ ozone levels. Howm:r, neglecting to warn 

susceptible groups results in a missed opportunity to enable these groups to avoid_potential exposure and can result 

in a loss of po~ntial public health benefits. 
II 

evaluations studies. Together, this information will be used in Phase III of this study to select 

four programs for an in-depth evaluation of the programs' effectiveness. Section 4 contains a 

discussion of the four areas to be examined in Phase ill of the study. 
I.? 

2 STUDY METHODOLOGY 

PHASE I-INITIAL SCOPING STUDY 

The initial phase of this work involved a phone survey to collect information on the state of the 

practice of episodic control programs in the U.S. A list of potential contacts was gathered and 

phone interviews were conducted during a two-week period in the spring of 1996. The questions, 

which were asked of program directors or other knowledgeable staff involved with the programs, 

included: 

1. Who is responsible for implementing the program? (partnership, APCD, MPO) 

2. Are there voluntary or mandatory participation requirements? 

3. How is the program implemented? (fax alerts, radio messages, call-in) 

4. Is the program coordinated with other state programs (i.e., Washington D.C./Baltimore) 

5. What measure$ are implemented? . 

6. What steps are required to educate the public and employer participants? 

7. Are emission impacts estimated? How so? 

8. Has the effectiveness of program been measured or estimated? 

The results of this study were documented inan initial draft report to OMS in March 1996. The 

information gathered in the initial study helped to establish an extensive list of contacts (see 

Appendix A), set realistic limits on the type of data available, and focus the direction for the 

information gathering to be performed in Phase II of the study. The preliminary results indicated 

that even though some areas were trying to quantify the impact of their programs, very few areas 

had any actual data to support a quantitative analysis. · 

PHASE ll-SURVEY OF EPISODIC CONTROL PROGRAMS 

Phase II focused on developing a more comprehensive list of contacts and completing a more indepth survey of the programs to collect the data necessary to characterize them in a useful 

database. An associated goal was to identify the.five target cities for which the det8iled 

evaluation of program impacts wolild be conducted as part of Phase m of the project~ 

Data Collection 

The telephone interview approach was adequate for t.he general information-collection in Phase I. 

However, collecting a broader, more detailed set of data for programs required a combined 

approach which incorporated interviews and the completion of a program fact sheet by each 

contact for a given program. A fact sheet was developed with the goal of creating a relatively 

complete picture of the components of the programs, including: 

• motivations behind each program's inception 

• means used to implement and fund the programs 

• major components of the program design 
13 

• methods used to forecast episode days 

• profiles of program participants and participation level 

• evaluation of program effectiveness. 

A copy of the final fact sheet is included in Appendix B. A considerable effort went into the 

design of the fact sheet so that respondents could quickiy and easily fill in the answers to the 

questions. Since this phase of the data collection took place in the early summer months, which 

are typically quite busy for episodic control programs, we did not want to unduly burden the 

program directors. Thus, many of the questions in the fact sheet were developed with check 

boxes (see Exhibit 2-1). To be sensitive to time expended, instructions routed the respondent 

around questions which did not pertain to the their program. 

EXHIBIT 2-l. Section of&ct sheet. 

S) If the program name includes the word "ozone" (i.e., Ozone Alert Program), has this been 

a source of confusion for participants? (For example, participants may mistake ambient 

ozone with the ozone layer in the upper atmosphere causing a misunderstanding about the 

nature of the problem.) 

0 The program name does not include the word "ozone". (Skip to Question 7) 

0 The program name does include the word "ozone" but this has not been confusing to 

participants. (Skip to Question 7) 

0 The program name does include the word "ozone" and this has been confusing to 

participants. 

For each program, contacts were telephoned and infonned that they would receive the fact sheet 

via fax. Once the fact sheet had been distributed, follow-up calls were made to ensure that the 

contacts understood the information being requested and that they would be completing and 

returning the survey. This was done both for the original list of contacts and for other programs 

identified through additional information gathering. Once fact sheets were returned, additional 

telephone interviews were conducted to clarify and expand program details presented in the fact 

sheets. 

Analysis of Data 

Large amounts of information on each episodic control programs were collected through the 

interview and fact sheet completion process. To examine the data collected in the survey and 

draw conclusions regardipg the various components of existing epis0dic control programs, a 

database summarizing the'.jndividual characteristics of each program was developed. Analysis of 

this database is key to understanding and comparing the different programs and the factors 

involved in their creation and implementation. 

We used the program Microsoft Excel to store and do basic analysis of the data collected in this 

study. Microsoft Excel was fully capable of analyzing the data in an efficient and easily 

understood manner. In addition, Excel has a number of practical advantages over other programs 

such as Lotus Notes. While Lotus is a relatively new prograin with a steep learning curve, Excel 

is much more established and, as a result, the level of computer knowledge required to facilitate 

understanding of Excel has already been achieved by many potential u5ers of the database. 
Database Codes 

To summarize the fact sheets in a single database, a method of coding was developed to be both 

logical and easy to understand. For the most part, answers to questions are coded with a single 

letter, most often the first letter of the first word or the first letter of what was deemed to be the 

key word in the answer. For example, under question 7c, "Specific suggestions being made to the 

public on pollution episode days to reduce area source emissions," the answer "avoid using 

gasoline powered equipment" is coded as "G" while the answer "avoid using charcoal lighter 

fluid" is coded as "C." A viewer might then quickly glance at the database and look under the 

column "Area Source Actions" and see that the Washington Episodic Controls Program suggests 

that the public avoid using gasoline-powered garden equipment and charcoal lighter fluid on 

episode days. An example of the coding scheme used in the database is shown in Table 2-1. 

Techniques Used to View and Analyze Data in the Database 

A series of macros were also developed within Excel to facilitate examination of the data. Macros 

enable the viewer to select a particular category and view only those questions which pertain 

directly to that category. For example, running the macro "Episode Day Actions" hides all data in 

the spreadsheet not related to actions taken on pollution episode days. Once a macro is selected, 

the user is provided with a truncated version of the database containing only the desired category 

of data. The six macros built into the database display subsets of the data related to the following 

categories: Episode Day Actions, Program Evaluation, Funding/Administrative, Forecasting, 

Public Outreach, and Program Summary. 

An example of the use of a macro is shown in Figures 2-1 and 2-2 .. In Figure 2-1, the initial 

layout of the spreadsheet, which contains all fields of infonnation is shown. Also shown are the 

six macros (1) Program Evaluation, (2) Funding/Admin, (3) Forecasting, (4) Episode Day 

Actions, ( 5) Summary, and ( 6) Outreach. If the user places the mouse over the macro 

"Fundirig/Admin," a display of funding and administrative data for each program re~ts. Figure 

2-2 shows the result of this operation: only information such as Funded Agency, Funding Source 

and Ftinding Duration are now visible. · 

In addition to the macros, another useful feature of Excel was the database filters. Filters serve to 

break down data and provide answers to some basic data collection questions. For example, for a 

particulai data field, filtering allows the viewer to see how many programs answered yes or no to 

a specific question. This feature was used both for viewing which program responded similarly to 

questions and for tabulating the responses. Facilitating this level of detail is invaluable for 

conducting general statistical analyses of the data and identifying similarities between the episodic 

control programs in the study. 

An example of the use of a filter is shown in Figure 2-3 and 2-4. Figure 2-3 illustrates where the 

"filter" command is located in the Excel window. Also shown in Figure 2-3 is the spreadsheet 

with filters for each column. Figure 2-4 shows the spreadsheet display after a filter has been run 

on the column "start year."· In the database, the data have been sorted so that only programs with 

a start year of 1994 are displayed. 
TABLE 2-1. Example database codes. 

Code Meaning 

Program Goals 

E - Public education 

A - To attain air quality standards. 

T - To m~ specific emission reduction targets 

C - Congestion management 

B - Economic benefits of staying in attainment 

H - Health benefits 

M - To maintain the attainment status of the area 

0 - Other 

"Ozone" in the Program Name 

No - "ozone" is not in the program name 

15 

C - Yes, "ozone" is in the program name and it has been a source of confusion for participants 

N - Yes, "ozone" is in the program name but it has not been a source of confusion for 

participants 

Actions taken if "Ozone" is in the Program Nqme 

N - No actions taken 

C - Change name 

P - Increase public education mid outreach about the difference between ambient ozone and the 

ozone layer. 

Suggested Public Travel Related Measures 

N - No travel-related suggestions are being made 

L - Avoid driving at lunch time 

A - Use ·alternative modes of transportation instead of driving alone 

V - Keep vehicle tuned up 

C - Combine multiple auto trips throughout the day 

H - Work from home 

R - Avoid refueling until the evening (i.e. after 6 p.m.) 

S - Keep travel speeds at the speed limit and steady 

W - Change work schedule to avoid commute 

Area Source Emission R.eduction Suggestions 

N - No suggestions are made to the public to reduce area source emissions 

W - W - Avoid use of wood stoves and fireplaces 

G - Avoid using gasoline-powered equipment 

C - Avoid using charcoal lighter fluid 

H- ·Avoid household maintenance activities that produce emissions (painting, etc.) 

0- Other 

Suggested Episodic Corporate Policy Changes 

N - No measures are suggested by the program 

R - Postpone fleet refueling until the evening 

L - Use fleet vehicles to attend lunch and meetings 

C - Use,conference technologies instead of face-to-face meetings 

0- Other 
FIGURE 2-1. Macro example. 

Goal Seek..!-· 

S,Genarlo•~·· 

So~er ..• 

erotcdJon 

Add-ln_a ••• 

Macro ••• 

Bccord Macro 

Assign Macro ... 

Qpdona ••• 

All Data 

Program Evaluation 

FundlnalAdmln 

Forcuatlng 

Episode Day Actions 

Summary 

Outreach 

Effectlvcncaa 

no 

OrOM c 

no 

0i- c 

• 

N N 

. ~bfL_ f!.Q.. ____ ... 

__ uc=---1 ~l. Y.R, S R.,_::C~_....μ: 

LAV.C,HJ\ 

I!!_____ ----·-·- ~--. . . 

•=---rs;!!! ____ __ 
Vnt1P 

Albup!9U.,t!!_ AdvGClfl 

OzCIMMuilOf 

Ptogilfft 

F ..... 

....... F ...... 1111 

o.. .. -. 

atUOMI No lpeoW 

Al• IDOt Wish Lisi 21a Wish lisl 

~·-·- ------ _ : ........ __ -· __ .. (Oot - Feb)__ budp! 

ful tirM PfC>glimel to coc0tdinttt P11nting costs. PSAs lot ••clio l515.000""'no~-·- communlcllions IMIN~••dns TY. Adwtlising sp.c_!___ --- 140.000 ,., lmpl-.Mnt • mort bload-bued Eirpind pub OW Hoh wilh UH 0 

pub -4 Pf09f illl TV ind rldio ~tisinll 

Addilion.i ~td •ctivi!Ms. 

ldwrllslng puichun 

Mottmtdi• 

Additionil pub-•d .ctivitin. 

ilCMRilin1ipUich•HS 

IOOk list • more OUCIHCh 10-

sohools. Hrt st.ti 10 Sl•t gru 

Mo.11111~.-~~~~~~~-Mot~.-mtdil~~ 

MOi•-,Mib0uuHch llMI 14.; 

llltlsmtlll of OWltlll tfllis 

FIGURE 2-2. Macro example results after running the 'FUNDING' macro 
HlghPCIMlon 

·-- Mll!!!!I et!?I: Plltnlfsklf 

CltanAll 

FIGURE 2-3. Filter example. 

·---on1986 onFarm ••• 

Sulatolals ••• 

I able ... 

T.G,>CI to Columns... ..•l••or~ 

Coosolldalc... -----+------ ~!L E.~·- A.V.C.H.R.S. G.C.H. A.Y 

-..._G_ro_u_p_a_n_d_O_u_u_1_n_c __ •.. - __ "·~- --···-JI!! _________ v.o_ 

fiyotlable •.• : E.H.A ~A.V.C.H.R. G.C.H.O 

Plvollable Field... ------ ' --------1!!. ________ ~k. --- LAV.CRS),i G.C.H.O LAV. 

Helresh Uuta !!H 

E.B.H A.H.S. \1,0 N 

no 

Nanllllirmtnl 

....... OIOM no 

Naa.Ulirmtnl 

+--- -------~11!-• __ _ l.A.H.R-

...,... Ozon. 

Nanlllliflmenl 

c 

modttll• OzOM no GCH •• L.A.V.C.R.S Cl 

AttalnrMnl OaGM 

PM no 

--

--Oo 
.. -· _ _ .. 199' .2!1.:11!!!!1 OI~ .. . ~ . . . ~ . oiwACilon NoMUlinmetll 

~-----· ·-l!!! ~- IL~!l __ 2!~!.-- !!___ !~--­ I!! .... P111ne1s lot 

O.anAll 

~----··· PlltMISfQI 

a.· .. All ..... . OioneAcdon 

a._ __ .. 

NonllUiinn~lll 

=~::...:::::11c-1(Hvlfe) --- OIOf!! ___ !!!!... .. --!!i! __ !,_~~!.. .... __ .......... !.-. G,~!t ....... I!! .. .. L.A.H.R 

~ ~·l!J.!!ll ~·~ . 

--.. ,. !!!:2!9. Alt~ 

~ - -

Olone ___ £_ P. --··-··---··--- ·-· 

CA:H;fi __ _ 

l..A.v.&.Av C!.~-~ 

G.C.H 

...... I!!·-. 

-------·-····--II!!. ___ · ..... . 

---1,....-----t----- -----··· ---·---···---- ··--·-----· . ·------- ·-- - --. ·-·· 

-+-----f-··--·-·- ---· ----·-·- --·······-·- ··---·---· -·----+·------

---t,...-----+------- ·--·--~--· --···---·-· ------ ·---· ··-·-- -------- ·····-

·---'-----f---- --···-- ···-·---- ---- ----· -----···- ··--· 

----- _______ ,__ __ ..... _ --·--··----··-------- -----·· ·-----·-···---· ·-··---4--------... ··- ----- -... 

·----·----------·--&--- ---·-·- -------- -······------------------ ----·-----·-- -------- --·· 

FIGURE 2-4. Filter example results showing all programs with a start year of 1994. 
20 

PHASE m OF THE STUDY 

In the next phase of this study, ICF will work with the program coordinators in four selected 

areas to examine any existing data available regarding the impact of the programs. Our intent is 

to perfonn an in-depth, independent evaluation of these programs and to assess the effectiveness 

of the control measures in each program. We are currently planning to evaluate the following 

programs: 

• San Francisco/Sacramento/San Joaquin Valley 

• Dallas 

• Cincinnati 

·• Washington D.C./ Baltimore 

These areas have been chosen because they have fairly advanced programs in place and have 

already spent resources to collect data on program effectiveness. These areas were selected to 

permit an evaluation of programs that are sufficiently different and represent a wide variety oi 

potential programs and geographic areas. Our review of these programs indicates that there is 

wide variation in the type of impacts that are evaluated. Even though two areas may use similar 

measures, such as voluntaJy no-drive days, the amount of data available regarding the impacts of 

these programs may be significantly different. This can be attributed to tactors such as budgetary 

and staff constraints, significance of the program in overall regional air quality planning, and 

degree of program parti.cipation. 

We also expect to find a wide degree of variation regarding the definition of"evaluation." Initial 

efforts to evaluate program effectiveness usually begin with surveys of program awareness. All of 

these cities have completed an initial survey, and some are currently completing additional 

focused surveys. The areas have also collected ridership and employer participation data, or have 

initiated specific conunittee or studies to help quantify their program's effectiveness. However, 

since most of these data are fairly new and limited, our current belief is that data available to 

calculate specific "einission reductions'' and "costs'' will be limited. 
21 

3 PHASE II-STUDY FINDINGS 

Forty programs, representing efforts made in over 20 states; were identified and contacted for 

infonnation. Program administrator from 38 of these programs responded to our data requests. 

The programs examined differ considerably in both focus and lev~I of effort; however, common 

program components and successful techniques can be found amcng the various programs. This 

section begins with an overall summary of basic infonnation about the extent and focus of the 

programs and follows with a discussion of the basic components required to operate a successful 

program. This discussion also includes highlights of unique or exceptional efforts by individual 

program. More detailed program profiles for each city examined are included in Appendix C. 

EXTENT AND SCOPE OF EPISODIC CONTROL PROGRAMS 

The existence of episodic control programs, especially those targeted at ozone, is a fairly new 

development in air quality planning, as can be seen in Figure 3-1. Episodic programs have been 

established or are ·currently being developed for approximately 40 different areas across the 

country. Figure 3-2 displays the location and age of the episodic control programs for which we 

have collected data. As seen in the figure, most programs have been operated for less than four 

years and many have just started within the last year. The oldest programs were established in 

1987 in Seattle and Spokane, Washington. These programs, which are bOth focused on reduction 

of woodbuming emissions, are quite a bit older than the oldest ozone programs which began in 

1991 in San Francisco and Tulsa. 

No. of 

Programs 15.&-~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ 

1987 1988 1989 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 

oco e!PM10 •Ozone 

FIGURE 3-1. Number of programs in existen~. 

1995 1996 
O 1 Yearorless 

e 2-4 Years 

e Greater than 4 Years 

Figure 3-2 

-------r---
23 

Figure 1-1, shown earlier, presents the location of episodic co.itrol programs in the U.S. which 

. are targeted at reducing ozone impacts. All of these programs operate in the summer ozone 

season, are voluntary, are targeted at reducing emissions of onroad mobile and nonroad sources, 

and often include both employer and industry participation. As depicted in the figure, the 

programs exist in both nonattainment and attainment areas. While m~y of the nonattairunent 

areas are ma.king efforts to reduce or limit the number of ozone violations as they move toward 

attainment, many of the areas are expecting that the impacts of the program will help the area 

maintain its attainment status. Figure 1-1 also shows citie5 which have episodic control programs 

targeting carbon monoxide or PM10. In contrast to the ozone programs, these programs are 

operated in the winter and primarily target reductions in woodbuming emissions. In addition, 

while the ozone programs are voluntary, the woodbuming component of these programs is 

typically mandatory3 under existing state regulations. 

Goals and Participation 

Areas implement episodic control programs for varying reasons. The goals of the area 

implementing the program dictate what, if any, monitoring of results takes place and the kinds of 

impacts that are evaluated. For example, attainment areas may institute programs to limit air 

quality violations and avoid redesignation to nonattainment; Nonattainment areas may use such 

programs as part of an emissions reduction strategy, or as a means. to avoid additional violations 

that could jeopardize attainment prospects or threaten to cause redesignation to a more severe 

classification. A summary of the top goals listed by all programs surveyed is given in Table 3-1. 

As can be seen in Figure 3-3, of the areas surveyed, one-half of the programs stated that public 

education was the number one goal of the program. The second and third most important goals 

listed were "Attain/maintain ambient air quality standard" and "Health Benefits," respectively. In 

comparison, Figure 3-4 indicates all of the goals that were listed as one of the top three 

Public Education 

(53%) 

Other 

(3%) Health Benefits 

(13%) 

Attain or Maintain Air 

Quality Standards 

(32%) 

FIGURE 3-3. Goals of episodic control programs (percentage ~f progr.uns ranking goal # 1 ). 

3 Most regulations restricting wood burning include. exceptions for low income, sol~ ~eating source or low emission 

devices (certified.. wood stoves). 
2.J 

TABLE 3 -l P roiuam ~1 oal s. 

Goals (ranked) .. 

~rea Program #1 #2 #3 

Albuquerque, NM Winter Pollution Advisory Maintain AQ Standards Public Education, Congestion Management 

Health Benefits 

Atlanta, GA Ozone Advisory Public Education Health Benefits Congestion Management 

Austin, TX Clean AIR Force Public Education .Maintain AQ Standards Health Benefits 

Baltimore, MA Ozone Action Days Public Education Health Benefits Attain AQ standards 

Beaumont, TX Ozone Action Days Public Education Attain AQ standards Economic Benefits 

Charlotte, NC Ozone Awareness Public Education Economic Benefits Health Benefits 

Chicago, n. Partners for Clean Air Health Benefits Public Education Attain AQ standards 

Cincinnati, OH Smog Alert Attain AQ standards Public Participation Health Benefits 

Cleveland, OH Ozone Action Day Public Education Health Benefits Economic Benefits 

Corpus Christi, TX Ozone Action Days Maintain AQ status Public Education Economic Benefits 

Dallas/Ft Wth, TX Ozone Alert Public Education Attain AQ standards Emission Reductions 

Denver, CO High Pollution Advisory Attain AQ standards Emission Reductions Health Benefits 

Detroit, MI Ozone Action Attain AQ Standards Public Education . Health Benefits 

Gary, IN Partners for Clean Air Public Education ·Health Benefits Maintain AQ standards 

Houston-Galv., TX Clean Air Action Public Ednc:atiaa, Attain AQ standards 

Health Benefits 

Indianapolis, IN Partners for Clean Air Public Education Health Benefits . Maintain AQ standards 

Longview, TX Northeast Texas Air Care Most effective practice Economic Benefits Public Education 

for area 

Louisville, KY Partners for Clean Air Public Education Health Benefits Maintain AQ standards 

Milwaukee, WI Ozone Action Maintain AQ status Attain AQ Standards Public Education 

Northwest, WA Woodsmok.e Curtailment Health Benefits Public Education Economic Benefits 

Olympia, WA Woodsmoke Curtailment Attain AQ Standards Maintain AQ Standalds Health Benefits 

Philadelphia, PA Ozone Action Public Education Health Benefits- Attain AQ Standards 

Phoenix.AZ Residential Woodbuming Public Education Emission Reductions Health Benefits 

Restriction Ordinance 

Phoenix, AZ Ozone High Pollution Public Education Emission Reductions Health Benefits 

Advisory 

Pittsburgh. PA Ozone Action. Public Education. Attain AQ Standards Economic Benefits 

Portland, OR Clean Air Action. Days Attain AQ Standards Health Benefits Public Education 

Puget Sound, WA Woodsmoke Curtailment Attain AQ Standards Health BenCfits Maintain AQ Standards 

Puget Sound, WA Smog Watch Maintain AQ status Economic Benefits Public Education 

Richmood, VA Ozone Advi8aly Maintain AQ SbdDs Ecoaamic Bacfits Health Benefits 

Sacramento, CA SpaetheAir Attain AQ Standards Health Benefits Public Educatian 

San Antonio, TX Ozone Action. Days Public Ednc:atim Maintain AQ Standards Health Benefits 

· San Francisco, CA SpaetheAir Health Benefits · AttainAQ Stlmdards Public Education 

San Joaquin. CA Sp&RtheAir Public Education Attain AQ standards Health Benefits 

South Bend, JN Partners for Clean Air Public Education · Health Benefits Maintain AQ standards , 

Spokane, WA Woodstove Curtailment Public Education Attain AQ Standards Health Bcactits 

St Louis, MO Clean Air Partnership Public Education Attain AQ Standards Health Benefits 

Toledo, OH Ozone Action pays MaintainAQ Economic Benefits Public Education 

Tulsa, OK Ozone Alert Health Benefits Maintam AQ Standards Economic Benefits 

Washington, D.C. Ozone Action Days Public Education Health Benefits Attain AQ standards 
Attain or Maintain Air Quality 

staridards 

Public Education 

Health Benefits 

Economic Benefi1S 

Meet Emission Reduction Targe1S 

-Congestion Management 

Other 

0% 10% 20% 

FIGURE 3-4. Distribution of top three program goals: 

/ -30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% 

Percent of Programs Ranking Goal in the Top 3 
26 

by individual programs. While the top three goals mentioned above are the most comrr on, several. 

areas aJso consider economic benefits and the reduction in congestion and pollutant em.'.ssions as · 

important objectives of their programs. 

Episodic programs, by definition, are designed to increase public awareness and change public 

behavior on days of poor air quality. To achieve this, many programs have enlisted the help of the 

general public as well as employers and industry. A listing of the participants involved each 

program is shown in Table 3-2. Many areas have found that enlisting the support of local 

employers has added significantly to the programs' success. Employers have unique opportunities 

and mechanisms to educate their employees about the benefits of the program and to notify them 

on alert days. The following summary indicates which of these three groups participate in the 

episodic control programs around the nation: . 

• All of the programs encourage public participation 

• 100% (2 of the 2) programs targeting CO encourages emp/oye~ participation 

• 20% (1 of the S) programs targeting PM10 encourage employ· · Jarticipation 

• 97% (30 of the 31) programs targeting ~encourage employ;;·.- participation 

• 71 % (22 of the 31) programs targeting ~ encourage stationary sour" participation 

• None of the programs targeting PM10 or CO include a stationary souru component 

Funding 

The funding required to operate an episodic program depends on the scope of the program. 

Some basic advisory programs, designed only to forecast pollution episodes and notify the public 

through the media, have been implemented with little or no funding at all. This has been possible 

through the coordination of various organizations (universities, National Weather Service) to help 

with the forecasting, the interest and cooperation of the news media, and the dedication of 

enthusiastic volunteers. Programs which strive to increase forecasting accuracy and maximize 

public awareness through targeted public outreach efforts and media advertising, however, require 

significantly larger budgets. As can be seen in Figure 3-5, the 1996 budgets of the programs we 

have reviewed range from completely voluntary (no funding) to $1 million. The average cost of 

the 31 programs which submitted budget data is $200,000 /yr, these data are presented in Table 

3-3. The following is a summary of key findings regarding the levels of funding of episodic 

control programs around the nation: · 

• Funding amounts for the different programs range from no funding to $1, 000, 000. 

• The funding level for the only CO program for which we received data (Phoenix, AZ) is 

$3,500/yr. 

• 1'he average junditig amounts received by the 26 ozone programs for which we have data- ·· 

is $210, 000/yr. This average does not include the two programs which receive no special 

funding. The high and low funding values for ozone programs are $1,000,000 for the 

Baltimore program and $15,000 for the Pittsburgh program. On the average, programs in 

severe nonattainment. areas spend more on implementation of their programs than those in 

attainment (Figure 3-6). 

• The average funding amounts received by the four programs targeting PM is $256, 946. 

This includes high and low funding values of$900,000 for the Puget Sound Woodsmoke 

Curtailment program and $22,560 for the Norttiwest program. Note that if the Puget 
27 

TABLE 3 2 - P . . b art1c1oation >v oro2ram. 

Participants 

General Public 

Companies 

Pollutant Stationary 

Area Prorzram TQl'2eted Sources 

Albuquerque. NM Winter Pollution Advisory co ..J ..J 

Atlanta. GA Ozone Advisory Ozone ..J v 

Austin. TX Clean AIR Force Ozone ..J ..J ..J 

Baltimore. MO Ozone Action Days _ Ozone ..J ..J ..J 

Beaumont. rx Ozone Action Days Ozone ..J ..J ..J 

Charlotte, NC Ozone Awareness Ozone ..J 

Chicago, n. Ozone Action Days Ozone ..J " ..J 

Cincinnati, OH Smog Alert Ozone ..J ..J ..J 

Cleveland. OH Ozone Action Days Ozone ..J ..J ..J . Corpus Christi. TX Ozone Action Days Ozone ..J ..J ..J 

Dallas/Ft Worth, TX Ozone Alert Ozone ..J ..J v 

Denver. CO High Polltition Advisory PM ..J ..J 

Detroit, Ml Ozone Action Days Ozone ..J ..J 

Gary, IN Partners for Clean Air Ozone ..J ..J ..J 

Houston-Galv .• TX Clean Air Action Ozone ..J ..J 

Indianapolis. IN Partners for Clean Air Ozone ..J ..J ..J 

Longview, TX Northeast Texas Air Care Ozone ..J ..J ..J 

Louisville, KY Partners for Clean Air Ozone " " " Milwaukee. WI Ozone Action · Ozone ..J ..J ..J 

Northwest. WA Woodsmoke Curtailment PM ..J 

Olympia. WA Woodsmoke Curtailment PM ..J 

Philadelphia. PA Ozone Action Ozone ..J ..J 

Phoenix. AZ. Ozone High Air Pollution Advisory Ozone ..J ..J " Phoenix. AZ. Residential Woodbuming Restriction CO ..J 

Pittsburgh, PA Ozone Action Ozone ..J ..J ..J 

Portland. OR Clean Air Action Days Ozone ..J ..J ..J 

Puget Sound, WA Woodsmoke Curtailment PM ..J 

Puget Sound. WA Smog Watch Ozone ..J ..J 

Richmond. VA Ozone Advisory '· Ozone ..J ..J ..J 

Sacramento.CA Spare the Air Ozone ..J ..J 

San Antonio, TX Ozone Action Days Ozone ..J ..J ..J 

San.Francisco. CA Spare the Air Ozone ..J ..J 

San Joaquin., CA Spare the Air Ozone ~ ..J 

South Bend. IN Partners for Clean Air Ozone ..J ..J ..J 

Spokane, WA Wood Stove Curtailment PM ..J 

St Louis.MO Regional Clean Air Partnership Ozone ..J ..J ..J 

Toledo. OH Ozone Action Day . Ozone ..J ..J ..J 

Tulsa, OK Ozone Alert Ozone ..J ..J " Washington. D.C .. Ozone Action Days Ozone ..J ..J ..J 
.,.._t,MI> 

w .......... o.c. 

5MF1..;-.CA 

~OH 

.......... ,. 

Sooa ..... IH 

s--...VllkJ,CA 

....... Al 

Oelllt. TX 

s.u-.CA 

a-i-1,0H 

~VA 

o.Dil,.MI 

a.a.pow. TX 

ftliWllpllio. PA 

'•'* 

hdlM4• 

........ llY 

......... IN 

~TX 

1--.0H 

a.-.,TX 

............. 

0..111111.NC 

...... PA 

GllJ,IN 

1'1'111....._WA 

.......... 

o.-.co 

....._,WA 

.. 

-$40 

• $18 

• $17 

• $15 . 

• $10 

t=::::JS54 

1==1$51 

l::l $23 

$11 ~ 

$16': 

$145 

$138 

1137 

$122 

$100 

$100 

$100 

$100 

$0 $100 $200 

S500 

$390 

$S78 

$~ 118 

$35Cl 

'329 

$25( 

$25' 

12~ 

$300 

·1096 Budget (Thousands of Dollars) 

FIGURE 3-5. Annual budget for epis<>dic control progrwns. 

$1.000 

I 

l::::::::: 

$900. 

$700 $800 $900 $1,000 
TABLE 3-3. Fundin levels. 

Area 

Albuquerque, NM 

Atlanta., GA 

Austin, TX 

Baltimore, MD 

Beaumont, TX 

Charlotte, NC 

Chicago, n. 

Cincinnati, OH 

Cleveland, OH 

Corpus Christi, TX 

Dallas/Ft Worth. TX 

Denver, CO 

Detroit, Ml 

Gary.IN 

Houston-Galv., TX 

Indianapolis, IN 

Longview, TX 

Louisville, KY 

Milwaukee, WI 

Northwest, WA 

Philadelphia, PA 

Phoenix, AZ 

Phoenix, AZ 

Pittsburgh. PA 

Portland, OR 

Puget Sound, WA 

Puget Sound, WA 

Richmond, VA 

Sacramento, CA 

San Antonio, TX 

San Francisc:o, CA 

San Joaquin, CA 

South Bend, IN 

Spokane, WA 

St Louis, MO 

Toledo, OH 

Tulsa, OK 

W D.C. 

• Data not available 

Pro am 

Winter Pollution Advisory 

Ozone Advisory 

Clean AIR Force 

Ozone Action Days 

Ozone Action Days 

Ozone Awareness 

Ozone Action Days 

Smog Alert 

Ozone Action Days 

Ozone Action Days 

Ozone Alert 

High Pollution Advisory 

Ozone Alert Day 

Partners for Clean >Jr 

Clean >Jr Action 

Partners for Clean >Jr 

Northeast Texas >Jr Care 

Partners for Clean >Jr 

Ozone Action 

Woodsmoke Curtailment 

Ozone Action 

Woodsmoke Curtailment 

Ozone High >Jr Pollution 

Advisory 

Ozone Action 

Clean Air Action Days 

Smog Watch 

Woodsmoke Curtailment 

Ozone Advisory 

Spare the Air 

Ozone Action Days 

Spare the Air 

Spare the Air 

Partners for Clean Air 

Wood Stow Curtailment 

Regional Clean Air 

Partnership 

Ozone Action Day 

Ozone Alert 

Ozone Action 

Pollutant 

Ozone 

Ozone 

Ozone 

Ozone 

Ozone 

Ozone 

Ozone 

Ozone 

Ozone 

Ozone 

PM 

Ozone 

Ozone 

Ozone 

Ozone 

Ozone 

Ozone 

Ozone 

PM 

Ozone 

co 

Ozone 

Ozone 

Ozone 

Ozone 

0

PM 

Ozone 

Ozone 

Ozone 

Ozone 

Ozone 

. Ozone 

PM 

Ozone 

Ozone 

Ozone 

Ozone 

1996 

Bud et ($. Fundin Source 

No fimding n/a 

No fimding n/a 

$100,000 !STEA (CMAQ), Local funds 

S 1,000,000 State funds (Maryland 001) 

$40,000 !STEA (CMAQ) 

$17,000 General fund, industry 

• State funds, !STEA (CMAQ), Permit 

fees 

$376,000 IST ;;A (CMAQ) 

$163,925 !STEA (CMAQ) 

No funding n/a 

$250,000 !STEA (CMAQ), State Planning Funds 

$51,222 Fed funds, Collected fees 

• • 

$10,000 • 

$368,000 ISTEA (CMAQ) 

$100,000 State funds, !STEA (CMAQ) 

$138,000 State grant, Contributions 

$100,000 !STEA (CMAQ) 

$17,500 ISTEA (CMAQ), State funds 

$22,560 WA State Dept Ecology 

$136,500 ISTEA (CMAQ), Donations 

$3,500 Federal funds (CAA) 

No funding CJ/a 

$15,000 • 

$100,000 EPA grants, ISTEA (CMAQ) 

No funding n/a 

$900,000. State funds 

$150,000 !STEA (CMAQ) 

$232,500 ISTEA (CMAQ), OMV funds, Local 

funds .. •· 

$390,000 State funds, industry 

$328,783 DMVfunds 

$350,000 ISTEA (CMAQ) 

$54,000 Stat.e & Local funds 

• • 

$60,200 ISTEA (CMAQ), Local funds 

$122,000 ISTEA (CMAQ), EPA 

$500,000 State & local funds, !STEA CMA 

29 

Budget 

Ade uate 

• 

• 

no 

no 

yes 

yes 

no 

yes 

yes 

no 

yes 

yes 

• 

• . yes 

no 

no 

• 

yes 

yes 

no 

no 

• 

no 

no 

• 

yes 

yes 

no 

no 

no 

yes 

• 

yes 

• 

no 

no 

es 

• Sound program (which has the second highest funding level in the nation of any program) is 

not includ~ the average for the three other PM programs is $42,594. All of the PM 

programs expressed that their 1996 budget was adequate to fulfill the program's goal~. 

• Staffing varies widely, from all-volunteer staffs (as many as 9 volunteers) to 10 full-time 

paid staff 

It is interesting to note that-62% of the ozone program contacts felt that their 1996 budgets were 

inadequate to fulfill the program's goals. Not surprisingly, most program directors responded 

with specific items that they would include in the programs if an additional $100,000 or $200,000 

would be available. Most areas responded that the additional funds would be used to improve 

their forecasting and modeling capabilities, to develop additional outreach material, and to expand 

their advertisement campaign. 
i 

en 

'O . 

$414 

$400 --

$350 -----· ····---------

$300 ----- . --· 1294 --------·-----------

-------------- -----··· ····-·······--------· 

1259 l - --···· 

I 

I 

.... 

$200 ----

$150 

1160 

·-------·--·-···. ·--

I $100 

$50 --

. $0 -t---

Severe Nonallalnmenl Serious Nonattainmenl Moderaa,t Nonattainmenl 

I ·--.P~~;a~T~e~ti~~-oL-~~ --- .... aP;O(Jr~--r~~~ti~~ PM10 I 

FIGURE 3-6. Average budget by attainment stalus of the area implementing the program. 

$178 

$23 

Attainment 
31 

Forecasting, public outreach, and advertising are the three costliest aspects of any episodic control 

program. While basic weather parameters (temperature, wind speeds, humidity, etc.) are easily 

obtainable. from public entities such as the p C 

National Weather Service, in order to rogram osts 

accurately forecast pollution episodes, In genera.I, most areas are not considering the 

pollutant concentration data, which is not so full costs of implementing an episodic control 

readily available, should also be examined. program. For example, the "costs" of the 

Establishing and maintaining a pollution program, when they are examined, are 

monitoring station and making the data generally considered to be the staff costs of the 

available on-fine in real time can be very implementing agencies and the costs of 

costly. Programs with extensive networks education materials, surveys etc. Very little 

of monitoring sites spend as much as one- effi>rt has been made to quantify the in-kind 

third of their budget on pollution monitoring contributions on the part of implementing 

(e.g. the Puget Sound PM1o program ::i~~~=~::;e~':~~ maintains nine monitoring sites at the cost of lives have not been evaluated systematically, 

approximately $300,000/yr). Furthennore. 

understanding the relationships between episodic meteorological conditions, regional emission 

levels, and the resulting ambient concentrations involves considerable technical expertise. Since 

many of the programs are very new, they are just now beginning to develop these capabilities, 

which can require extensive resources. 

Figure 3-7 gives a general distribution of 1996 budget allocations for episodic programs. As 

shown. public outreach and advertising are costly, particularly if mass media (TV, radio, and 

newspaper advertisements) are used to educate the public about the program. While some areas 

have received a considerable amount of support from the local media (TV press conferences 

during the initial months of the ozone season and articles/editorials in the local newspapers}, other 

markets, especially those associated with large. diverse cities, do not get as much exposure in the 

local media. Because the competition for the media in these markets may be int~. episodic 

control programs are required to fi.md much more extensive outreach campaigns on. their own. In 

addition, advertisement rates in these markets can be more expensive, so the resulting costs for 

development and placement of TV, radio, and newspaper advertisements can be significant and 

prohibitive. 

COMPONENTS OF·A PROGRAM 

Many different specific activities are involved in the operation of an episodic emission control 

program. The programs are typically developed and directed by a coalition of interested 

goverrtment and business groups taking into consideration local sources of emissions, local public 

acceptance of episodic control measures. and levels of participation of local industry. 

Partnershi;:>s are typically formed so that each agency involved can contribute resources in its area 

of expertise. A local air pollution control agency, for example, may assist in air quality 
32 

Public Outreach 

60% 

Polling/Surveys 

1% 

Other 

Administrative 

37% 

FIGURE 3-7. Average annual budgets. 

forecasting, while a media consultant (often under contract) develops public awareness and 

education materials. Listed below are the main activities which need to be completed by the 

coordinating agencies for an episodic control program to be successfully implemented. 

• Establishment of program control measures 

• Development of public outreach and education materials 

• Establishment of accurate and responsive forecasting capabilities · 

• Development of a media/employer/source notification sysiem 

• Establishment of mechanisms to track program impact and effectiveness 

The following paragraphs discuss various approaches taken by most episodic control programs to 

implement these steps and highlight exceptional approaches taken in some area.S. Complete 

descriptions of the programs surveyed in the study are included in Appendix C. The individual 

program profiles describe the design of each city's program including (1) control measures, (2) 

public outreach and education methods, (3) forecasting techniques, (4) notification mechanisms, 

and ( 5) program evaluation data and techniques. 

Program Control Measures 

At the core of every episodic control program are the specific actions that the general public and 

other participating companies are encouraged to take on alert days. In the early stages of 

program development, these control measures establish the focus of the program. The air quality 

planners should initially detjde what episodic control measures to include in the program so that 

appropriate outreach materials can be developed. Apart from the few mandatory restrictions on 

wood burning, most episodic control programs are voluntary and are initially focused on affecting 

driving behavior. Many programs, however, expand to include measures aimed at reducing 

emissions from nonroad sources such as small engines (i.e. landscaping equipment). Listed below 

are examples of the types of control measures suggested· in episodic control programs. 
• Reduce motor vehicle activity 

Avoid rush hour commuting 

W allc or ride a bike 

33 

Take lunch to school or work (avoid going out during lunch hour) 

Combine multiple trips 

Keep vehicle tuned up 

Avoid jackrabbit starts and excessive idling 

• Postpone refueling until later in the day (after 6, 7 p.m.) 

• Postpone use of lawn equipment· 

• A void use of charcoal lighter fluid 

• Reschedule maintenance activities (painting, tank cleaning) or batch processing 

• Postpone mowing, tractor, backhoe, bulldozer activity (two-cycle engines) 

• Postpone fleet refueling until after 6 p.m. 

• Use fleet vehicles to attend lunch and meetings 

• Use conferencing instead of face-to-face meetings 

Tables 3-4 to 3-7 list the specific control measures incorporated into episodic control programs 

for the cities included in this study for use by the general public, companies, and stationary 

sources. They contain data for each episodic 

control program and indicate which control Most Frequently Recommended 

measures are recommended by each program. The Travel- Related Measllt'eS 

largest number of measures are those contained in 

Tables 3-4 and 3-5, which are aimed at the general 

public. Many of these mea8ures are included in 

employer outreach materials; however, these 

measures were not repeated in Table 3-6, which 

focuses on measures that can only be taken by 

bu5inesses to encourage reduction in driving 

activities or reduce business related driving. Table 

3-7 lists measures that stationary sources can take 

that reduce emissions without substantially 

affecting operations. These activities are typically 

100% - Use alternative modes of transportation instead of driving alone 

83% - Combine multiple auto trips 

throughout the day 

77% - Avoid refueling until the evening 

69% - Keep vehicle tuned up 

69% - Work from home 

. 66% - Avoid driving at lunch time 

60% - Change work schedules to avoid the 

commute · 

associated with maintenance tasks which can easily be postponed to periods with more favorable 

meteorological conditions. 

Recommended Area-Source Measures 

82%- Avoid using gasoline powemi equipment 

74 % - Avoid household maintmanc:e activities that 

produce emissions (painting, etc.) 

71 % - Avoid using charcoal lighter fluid 

29%-0ther 

18%- Avoid the use ofwoOd stoves and fireplac:es 

Analysis of the control measure data in 

Tables 3-4 to 3-7 reveals some of the main 

differences between programs targeting 

ozone, PM10 and CO. All of the programs 

targeting ozone and CO recommend that the 

general public take specific travel-related 

actions on pollution episode days. This 

reflects the concern municipalities have 

about auto use and the recognition that 

mobile sources contribute significantly to regional CO and ozone emission levels. 
34 

TABLE 3-4. Travel-related actions suggested to the general public. 

Measure 

Use alternative modes of tranm. instead of drivina alone 

Chan11:e work schedule to avoid commute 

Combine multiole auto trios throuohout the day 

Keen travel meeds a1 the meed. limit 

Avoid drivimr at lunch time 

Avoid refuelin11: until the evenina 

Kee it vehicle. tuned up 

Protrram Work from home 

PollUlanl Other 

Area Name T~eted 

Albuquerque, NM Winter Pollution Advisory co • • • • 

Atlanta. GA Ozone Advisory Ozone • • • • • • • Minimize idling 

Austin, TX Clean AIR Force Ozone • • • • • • 

Beaumont, TX Ozone Action Days Ozone • • • • • • • • 

Baltimore, MD Ozone Action Days Ozone • • • • • • • • Minimize idling 

Charlotte, NC Ozone Awareness Ozone • • • • Minimize idling 

Chicago. IL Ozone Action Days Ozone • • • • • • • 

Cincinnati. OH Smog Alert Ozone • • • • • • • 

Cleveland, OH Ozone Action Days Ozone • • • •• Avoid "topping otf' 

- tisbfm pl Clp Corpus Christi, TX Ozone Action Days Ozone • • • • • • • Dallu/Ft. Wonb, Ozone Alert Ozone • • • • • • • • 

Denver, CO Higb Pollution Advisory PM • • • • Odms llGl speci&d 

Deuoit, MI Ozone Action Days Ozone • • • • • • • Minimim idliq, miid 

"topping otf' 

Gary.IN Partners for Clean Air Ozone • • • • 

Houston-Galv, TX Clean Air Action Ozone • • • • • 

Indianaoolis, IN Partners for Clean Air Ozone • • • • 

Longview, TX Northcut Texas Air Care Ozone • • • • • • 

Louisville, K.Y Pannen for Clean Air Ozone • • • • 

Milwaukee, WI Ozone Action Ozone. • • • • • • 

Northwest, WA Woodsmoke Cunailmcnt PM No Sligar.cm made 

Olympia, WA WoodslilokeCurtailment PM No SllW"'tw made 

Philadelphia, PA Ozone Action Ozone • • • • 

Phoenix. AZ Ozone High Air Pollution Ozone • • • • • 

Advisory 

Phoenix.AZ Woodsmoke Curiailment co • • • • 

PittsbW'Kb. PA Ozone Action Ozone • • • • 

Portland, OR Clean Air Action Days Ozone . • • • • • • Keep tires infJaled 

Puget Sound, WA Woodsmoke Curtailmmt PM No ........ made 

Puget Sound, WA Smoa Wiida Ozone • • • • • • 

Richmond, VA Ozone Advisory Ozone • • • • Mmimim idling, bq» 

tiresina.d 

Sacramento. CA Spare the Air Ozone • • • • • • • 

San Antonio. TX Ozone Action Days Ozone • • • • • • 

San Francisco. CA Snare tbe Air Ozone • • • • • 

San Joaquin. CA Snare tbe Air Ozone • • 

South Bend, IN Panners for Clean Air Ozone • • • • 

Spokane, WA Wood Stove Curtailment PM No Sllgt '. QCIS made 

St. Louis, MO Clean Air Pannersbip Ozone • • • • • • • • 

Toledo, OH Ozone Action Day Ozone • • • • • • 

Tulsa, OK Ozone Alert Ozone • • • • • • 

Wa.Wngton. O.C. Ozone Action Days Ozone • • • • • • 
35 

t . 

TABLE 3-5. Area source actions suggested to the general public 

.. ·. " Measure 

A void household activities thal cause emissions 

A void usina as-oowcrcd 2ardcn equiDmcnt 

Avoid the use offirmlaces 

A void using limter fluid 

Protrram 

No actions suuested 

Other 

PollwanJ '· 

Area NaTM Tarveted 

Albuquerque, NM Winter Pollution Advisory co • Atlanta, GA Ozone Advisory Ozone • • • Austin. TX Clean AIR Force Ozone • • • Baltimore, MD Ozone Action Days Ozone • • • Avoid ming polluting 

Beaumont. TX Ozone Action Days Ozone 

COllSUIDlir ~ 

• • • Tum offligbts and 

applimces 

Charlotte. NC Ozone Awareness Ozone • Chicago, lL · Ozone Action Days Ozone • • • Avoid ming polluting 

cmsumcr llnlducls 

Cincinnati. OH Smog Alert Ozone • • 

Cleveland, OH Ozone Action Days Ozone • • • Corpus Christi. TX Ozone Action Days Ozone • • • 

Dallas/Fl Wonb. TX Ozone Alert Ozone • • • Denver, CO High Pollution Advisory PM • Detroit. MI Ozone Action Days Ozone • • • 

Gary, IN Partners for Clean Air Ozone • • • Houston-Galv, TX Clean Air Action Ozone • • • lndianaDOlis, IN Partners for Clem Air Ozone • • • 

Longview, TX Northeasl Texas Air Care Ozone • 

Louisville, KY Partners for Clean Air Ozooc • • • 

Milwaukee. WI Ozone Action Ozone • • • Keep bOlls and lawn 

eciuio. PJ:lai11rai111ed 

Northwest. WA Woodsmoke Curtailment PM • Bum only dry, cJe:m. 

bumiDg 'NOOd 

Olympia, WA Woodsmoke Cunailment PM • 

Philadelphia, PA Ozone Action Ozone • • • 

Phoenix. AZ WoodsmokeCunailmcat co • 

Phoenix. AZ Ozone Higb Air Pollution Ozone • • • Advisory 

Pittsburgh. PA Ozone Ac:daD Ozone • • • Reduce elecuic:ily um 

Portland, OR Clean Ail Action Days Ozone • • • u. low«>lwll& 

paiall, wad 

prod.; limit bcm um 

Puget Sound, WA Woodsmoke Curtailment ·.PM • No our.door burning 

Puget Sound, WA Smog Watdl Ozone • • 

Richmond, VA Omoe Advisory Ozone • • • Avoid m:n.ol spays 

Sacramento, CA Spare dJe Air Ozone • • • 

San Antonio, TX Ozone Action Days Ozone • • 

San Francisco, CA SpmelbeAit Ozooe • • • Limil •of aarmol 

modlm 

San Joaquin. CA Soans the Air Ozone • • • 

South Bend. IN Pannen for Clean Air Ozone • • • 

Spokane. WA Wood Stov~ Curtailmcnl PM • u.~ 

' DrODafy 

St Louis, MO Regional Clean Air Parmersb.ip Ozone • • • 

Toledo, OH Ozone Action Day Ozone • • • 

Tulsa, OK Ozone Alert Ozone • 

WashingtOn, O.C. Ozone Action Days Ozone • • • 
J6 

1ABLE3·6. Measures suggested to participating companies . .-, Measure _, 

!Use conferencing technologies instead of face to face meetings 

Postpone maintenance activities which use small engines 

Use fleet vehicles to aaend lunch and meetings 

PostpOne fleet refueling until the evening 

No actions suggested 

Program• Other 

Pollutant 

Area Namtt Tm-geted 

Albuquerque. NM Winter Pollution Advisory co • 

Atlanta. GA Ozone Advisory Ozone • 

Austin. TX Clean AIR Force Ozone • • • 

Baltimore. MD Ozone Action Days Ozone • • 

Beaumont. TX Ozone Action Days Ozone • • • 

Chicago, IL Ozone Action Days Ozone • • Employee aota 

Cincinnati, OH Smog Alert Ozone • 

Cleveland, OH Ozone Action Days Ozone • • 

Corpus Christi. TX Ozone Action Days Ozone • • 

DaJJulft Wordl. TX Ozone Alert Ozone • • • 

Denver, CO High Pollution Advisory PM • 

Detroit. Ml Ozone Action Days Omne • • 

Guy, IN Partners for Clan Air Ozone • • 

Houston-Oalv, TX Clean Air Action Ozone • 

Indianapolis, IN Partners for Clan Air Ozone • • 

Longview, TX Nonbcuc Texas Air Care Ozone • • 

Louisville. KY Panncn for Clean Air Ozone • • 

Milwaukee, WI Ozone Action Ozone • 

Philadelphia. PA OmncActioa Ozone • 

Phoenix.AZ Ozone High Air. Pollution Ozone 

Advisory • 

Pittsburgh, PA Ozone Action Ozone • lleduce clccUic:ity coasumptioD 

Portfand, OR. Clean Air Action Days Ozone • • 

Puget Sound, WA Smog Wat&:b Ozone • 

Richmond. VA Ozone Advisory Omae • Consider usiDa higbcr oc:tane diesel tbel 

SICl'llDCll10. CA SpuetbeAir Ozoao • 

San Antonio, TX Ozone Action Days Ozone • 

San Francisco, CA SpuetbeAir Ozone MiDimim tnxt idliDs 

.. ~Joaquin. CA SpuelbeAir Omae • 

South Bend, IN Partners for Clcan Air Ozone • • 

SL Louis,MO Regional Clan Air Ozone • • • p_ 

Toledo, OH Ozone Action Day Ozone • • I 

Tulsa, OK. Ozone Alert Ozone • • 

Washington, D.C. Ozone Action Days Ozone • • • Only programs which encourage company panic:ipmon are included in the table. 
37 

· TABLE 3-7. Measures suggested to participating stationary sources " . 

Measun ,. 

Reduce high-emitting production aetivities 

: A void maintenance activities (!.c. painting. degreasing) 

Postpone landscaping activities 

Switch to cleaner burning fuels 

No actions suggested 

Prognm• Other 

Pollutan1 

Area Hams Targeted . 

Austin. TX Clean A1R Force Ozone • • • 

Baltimore. MD Ozone Action Days Ozone • • • 

Beaumont, TX Ozone Action Days Ozone • • • 

Chicago, IL Ozone Action Days Qi.one . • 

Cincinnati, OH Smog Alert Ozone • • • 

Cleveland. OH Ozone Action Days Ozone • • • • 

Corpus Christi, TX Ozone Action Days Ozone • • • • 

Dallu/Fl Worth, Ozone Alert Ozone • • • • 

TX 

Guy, IN Partners for Clean Air Ozone • • • 

Indianapolis, IN Partners for Clean Air Ozone • • • 

Longview, TX Northeast Texas Air Care Ozone • • • 

Louisville, KY Partners for Clean Air Ozone • • • 

Milwaukee. WI Ozone Action Ozone • • • 

Phoenix.AZ Ozone Higb Air Pollution Ozone· • • Advisory 

Pit!Sburgb. PA Ozone Action Ozone • • • • 

Portland, OR Clean Air Action Days Ozone • • • • PoslpOae ps harp loading activities 

Richmond, VA Ozone Advisory Ozooe • • • • 

San Antonio, TX Ozone Action Days Ozone • • • • 

South Bend, IN Partners for Clean Air Ozone • • • 

St Louis, MO Regional Clean Air Plnnersbip Omni • • • • 

Toledo, OH 01.0ne Action Day Ozone • • • 

Tulsa, OK OmaeAlat Ozane • • • 

Washington, D.C. Omne Action Days Ozone • • • • 

• OnJy prt18faml which encourage partic:iplDon by StlriOllllY sources are included in the table. 

In contrast, only one of the five programs targeting PM10 make travel-related suggestions to the 

public. Instead, the PM1o 

programs focus on reducing 

emissions from the main sources. 

.-, of PM10 in these areas: wood 

stoves and fireplaces. Other area 

source measures; however, are 

also applied in ozone and CO 

episodic control programs. In 

these areas, reduction of small 

Reco"'111D11kd Co"'PtUl1 Polley Mealll'O 

70% - Postpone fleet refueling until the evening 

39% - Use confem,ice technologies instead of face to face 

meetings 

15% - Postpone maintenance activities wbicb use small 

engines 

15% - Use fleet ve~cles to attend lunch and meeting. 

engine use and maintenance activities are targeted to reduce emissio~ of carbon monoxide and 
38 

engine use an i maintenance activities are targeted to reduce emissions of carbon monoxide and 

ozone precur~ors. Most programs are aiming these control measures at both the general public 

and participating stationary sources. 

Companies who have a significant employee work force are the third major participating party, 

whose applicable control measures are listed in Table 3-6. The employees at these firms might 

normally travel to meetings and the companies sometimes operate their own fleets or ground 

crews, 

Public Outreach and Education 

Program goals and measures must be conveyed to the public before any potential episode days 

occur so that public support for the program can be generated and so that participants understmd 

why measures should be undertaken during an alert day. Before the program can be effective, the 

public must first become aware of the existence of the program, then must be educated regarding 

what actions they can take during episode days. The message is typically transmitted via the local 

media, employer outreach (educational packages and workshops), community outreach at local 

events, and community newsletters. Examples of media outreach mechanisms and materials are 

listed below. 

• Press conference5 

• Public service announcements 

• Television advertisements 

• Spots on local talk shows 

• Radio advertisement 

• Newspaper advertisements 

• Newspaper articles and editorials 

• Billboard or wall advertisements 

Of these mechanism&, radio advertisements, which often reach listeners as they are driving their 

vehicles, are the most commonly used mass media advertising mechanism by episodic programs. 

As seen in Table ·3-8, 71 percent of all programs use radio advertising. 9ther mass media . 

advertising mechanisms, such as television and newspapers are also commonly used. Since the 

mass media mechanisms reach the largest segment of the population for most markets, many areas 

have begun their outreach by making a focused effort at educating the media at the beginning of 

each ozone season. 

Radio· Advertisements 

TV Advertisements 

Newspaper Advcrtiscimmts 

Billboards Advertisements 

71 % 

63% 

53% 

34% 

Many programs form partnerships with local employers and service organizations to educate the 

public regarding episodic control programs. Employers can distribute information directly to 

employees via company newsletters, bulletin boards, e-mail, and word of mouth. Many areas 

mentioned that employer participation was a critical p$1l1 of their episodic control programs. 

Depending upon the resources committed by the company, more direct. race-to-face methods of 
39 

communic4:tion can have a more significant impact on individual behavior than a message 

broadcast to the general public. · 

Local companies, which desire to contribute to the local community, can also offer significant 

funds and additional outreach mechanisms for communication. San Francisco, for example, has 

partnerships with local firms that sponsor advertisements for the episodic control program. The 

company's name is mentioned at the end of the commercial, or as part of the advertisement. 

Several local service companies (local HMOs and Pacific Gas and Electric) also distribute· 

information about the San Francisco program via company newsletters distributed to customers. 

The Albuquerque episodic- controt program has an agreement with the local water company to 

include stickers with the call-in phone number with customers' water bills. 

Since their original media and employer campaigns have been rather successful, some areas, such 

as Dallas, are now making focused efforts at educating members of the community, such as 

science teachers, who can effectively and accurately pass on the message to young people. As 

shown in Table 3-9, 95 % of the programs surveyed distribute educational materials and 66% 

conduct workshops for local schools and industry. The Dallas program gives one-day workshops 

for science teachers and the heads of school districts and have occasionally sent speakers out to 

classes. In addition to giving teachers packets of information, the North Central Texas Council of 

Governments (NCTCOG) operates an extensive World Wide Web site which contains information 

on the status of the alert day, basic infonnation about the program and the health impacts of 

ozone, and annual exceedance and alert day statistics to show the effectiveness of the program. 

TABLE3 -9 T ooou bli cou treach mec bani sms. 

Programs 

Outreach Mechanisms lmplementinR 

Creation and dissemination of public education materials 95% 

Provide information to participating employees through their employers 89%. 

Public education booths at conununity events 87% 

Workshops (for schools, industry, public) 66% 

Internet Web site 53% 

Since the media have been fairly active in promoting the Dallas program to the general public, the 

NCTCOG is now hiring an advertising finn to develop and post simple messages with the 

NCTCOG's phone number (with the day's status and directions for more information) on 

billboards around the Dallas area: Keeping the general public, local governments and grassroots 

organizations updated on the status of the program requires ongoing efforts. In Albuquerque, for 

example, the staff changed the call-in phone number three times over the course of several years. 

Each time the number was changed, new outreach material was developed and distributed. The 

Internet is particularly appropriate for displaying changing information, and it is being embraced 

by quite a few programs across the country. Twenty-five of the programs contacted stated that 

they had or were developing an Internet web site. Of the sites examined, the web pages included 

information on air quality, health impacts, suggested measures, data on alert days, and violations. 

We include printouts of these web pages in the program profiles in Appendix C. Other 

mechanisms frequently used to notify the general public include: . 
40 

• Distribution of pub1ic education 

packages at local libraries 

• Public workshops 

• Coordination with local grassroots 

community and business groups 

• Public education booths at community 

events and fairs 

Forecasting Techniques 

An accurate method of forecasting must be 

established for an episodic control program 

to be effective. Meteorological teams from 

the NationaLWeather Service (NWS), state 

environmental agencies, and local air 

pollution control agencies must evaluate 

historical meteorological and ambient air 

quality data to detennine what 

meteorological conditions are associated 

with high pollutant concentrations. In most 

areas, programs rely on a team of 

meteorologists working together to 

detennine which conditions are associated 

with episodic days and to predict when those 

conditions will occur. Often, a variety of 

techniques are used to forecast meteorological conditions and air quality 

concentrations. After each member of the 

team has prepared a forecast, the team 

assembles to compare results and make a 

joint prediction. Some programs, such as 

Atlanta'~ keep statistics on the accuracy of 

the team predictions and of each individual· 

on the team. While the teclmiques used by 

the meteorologists vary from the use of 

analytical, statistical or empirical models to 

meteorological intuition, some of the 

contacts reported that the most accurate 

members of the team tended. to be the 

experienced meteorologists using the 

intuitive approach. 

Before any predictive forecasting can begin, 

high pollution concentrations and their 

associated meteorological conditions must 

be identified. Since programs·vary 

Forecasting Techniques used in the Ba/timoreWashington Area 

The University of Maryland (UM) and the Maryland 

Department of the Environment (MDOE} have conducted the ozone forecasting for the Baltimore-W asbington 

area in recent years. The current day's surfil.ce meteorological data (surface wind speed, wind direction, temperature, sky cover, relative humidity) for the BaltimoreWashington International Airport are obtained. Upper 

air observations at the Dulles International Airport for 

temperature and wind speed at the 850 mb level are also 

obtained for the first step. Next, infonnation from the 

raw model output of the Nested Grid Model. the 

Medium Range Forecast Model. and the ETA Model for 

other variables is obtained. The local National Weather 

Service forecast is consulted, particularly to detennine 

maximum temperature. Infonnation on the previous 

day's maximum ozone concentration is also gathered. 

The data are then used in a regression model that predicts the daily maximum ozone concentration in ppbv. 

The regression model was developed using o7IJDCI 

surface and upper-air meteorological data for the period 

May-September fort.be years 1987-1993. It is important to note that the regression model uses statistical 

procedures to correlate meteorological parameters with 

oz.one parameters. It does not take into account annual 

increases or decreases in emissions, nor the spatial or 

temporal variations in emissions of ozone precursors. 

The regression model requires the input of the daily 

maximum and minimum surface temperatures, afternoon 

sky cover, relative humidity (at 0900 UTC}, surface 

wind speed at 1000 and 1800 urc. wind speed and 

temperature at 850 mb, and the length of the day, to 

make a forecast of the daily maximum ozone concentration. The short-term regression forecast model 

requires daily maximum and m;n;mum temperatures, 

morning and afternoon sky cover, relative bumiwty 

(0900 UTC}, surfilce wind speed at 1800 UTC, 

mversion temperature, wind speed at 850 mb, length of 

the day, and ma.Yimnm ozone concentration on the 

previous day. In addition to providing the input variables to the model, the forecaster also makes corrections 

for any known deficiencies in~ regression algorithm. 
somewhat in operation c;nd intent (e.g. ·.some programs aim to reduce the number' of violations 

while others desire to p1event violations4), the definition of"high pollutant concentrations" varies 

Baltimore Forecasting Techniques (Cont.) 

The forecast of the daily maximum ozone concentration 

is actually done twice. One forecast, the long-range (24-

hour) forecast is issued at 1500 EDT. This is updated 

the following morning by the short-range (12-hour) forecast issued at 0900 (ED-0. On weekdays, these forecasts are made independendy by forecasters at the UM 

and at the MOOE. The forecasts are discussed and a 

consensus forecast is then issued. On weekends, forecasts are prepared at the University of Maryland only. 

Once a daily maximum ozone concentration is predicted, 

a "color coded forecast" is prepared for dissemination to 

the public. This entails assigning a color to represent the 

predicted ozone concentration. The Code Red forecast is 

assigned when the predicted ozone concentration exceeds · 

125 ppb. This code is equivalent to the 'Warning" level 

in standard forecasts made by the National Weather 

Service. The Code Orange forecast is assigned when the 

predicted ozone concentration exceeds 110 ppb. This 

from one area to another. Furthennore ' the implementing agency may consider the 

changes in public response if30 alert days 

are called over the course of a summer 

ozone season in contrast to 5 alert days. 

Therefore, the implementing agency must 

consider both the goals of the program 

and the frequency of occurrence of high 

pollutant concentrations in an area before 

selecting concentrations at which to call 

alert days. 

Once a "high pollutant" level is selected, 

meteorologists must examine historical 

climatology, meteorological parameters, · 

and ambient concentrations to determine 

relations between the meteorological 

conditions and the pollutant 

concentrations. In many areas statistical 

regression models are used to detennine 

empirical relationships between pollutant code corresponds to the 'Watch" level of the National 

Weather Service. The Code Yellow forecast corresponds 

to the 60-l l 0 ppbv range, and the Code Green forecast 

corresponds to less than 60 ppb. 

· concentrations and meteorological 

parameters such as wind speed. wind 

direction, temperature, vertical 

temperature gradients, stability and cloud cover. This method has the advantage of using parameters that are measured by the NWS or local APCD monitoring stations or are predicted by the 

NWS and easily incorporated into a regression model. Use of the regression models.is often 

combined with a subjective analysis· of the synoptic weather patterns and historical ozone values. 

Values of other ambient parameters, such as ozone precursors, may also aid in predictions. 

Most areas have tested their predictive techniques for at least one season before disseminating the 

information to the public. Both false positive (Alert called/no exceedance measured) and false 

negative (No Alert called/exceedance occurs) predictions can occur. If the episodic program is 

very effective, false positives could occur if significant emission reductions result from the program's control measures. False negatives could occur if certain activities resulting in higher than 

normal emission levels (e.g. special events such as the Olympics) occur. Most programs, 

especially those in attainment areas, would rather err in the positive direction than the negative 

direction. Thus, as a result, many areas have issued alert day notices with pollutant 

concentrations that are measured at levels below the standard. 

Another factor which has influenced the forecasting methods developed by different areas is how 

r the information is transmitted to the public. Since the general public is not used to hearing about 

and understanding pollutant concentrations levels which are usually measured in units such as 

parts per billion or micrograms per cubic meter, many programs have developed different alert 

4 Some areas, su~h as the San Francisco Bay Area. are also concerned about exceeding lower state standards. 
levels for public notification. The terminology for these alert levels is often associated with the 

following colors: 

Green-Good Air·Quality 

Yellow-Moderate Air Quality 

Orange-Approaching Unhealthful 

Red-Unhealthful 

.,· . 

More traditional weather alert terminology such as "watch" and warning'' are also used in some 

areas. Often a "warning" or code yellow is automatically called when measured ozone 

concentrations reach significant levels. The Maryland Department of the Environment developed a 

tool called the Ozone Map which is used by Baltimore TV stations on alert days. The Map is a 

program which displays measured ozone concentrations much the way color radar of precipitation 

has been displayed on TV, illustrating expected ozone formation in an accessible manner for the 

general public. This tool has generated increased public interest in ozone and the local episodic · 

control program. 

Notification Mechanisms 

During the ozone season, administration of the episodic control program involves staff support in 

an intensive mode during alert days. After an episode day has been predicted, the program staff 

must notify all participating groups and ensure that they understand the appropriate emission 

control activities. The groups typically notified and the notification mechanisms are shown below. 

• Television stations fax 

• Radio stations fax 

• Newspapers fax 

• Employers fax 

• Stationary sources . fix, phone 

• Local governments phone 

• Gas stations fax 

• General public Internet site, phone line 

Notification of program participants, both employers and the media, typically involves fax trees 

and broadcast faxes to many participants. The involvement of grassroot groups and business 

coalitions to handle distribution of information is critical in larger cities. Some areas are using 

Internet web pages to distribute real time information to participants. Other areas are also using 

Internet E-mail' to notify participants and to obtain feedback on impacts on behavior. Faxes, 

press rel~ and follow-up calls to television meteorologists and radio stations are used to pass 

the message on to the media. 

Once television stations are notified of the alert day status, they generally mention the alert day in 

the news reports and the weather report. Many newspapers include special announcements and 

articles and include notification with the Pollutant Standards Index (PSI) report. Several - ,(\ 

programs have also developed a pollution episode symbol which clearly conveys the alert status to 

the public. This symbol is then placed on the fro~ page of the newspapers. or displayed during 

5 The Atlanta program has set up an E-mail distn'bution network, but no one has signed up for electrottlc 

notification to date. The San Francisco Bay Area program alSQ offers E-mail notification and requests that users 

respond via lntef!1et on their driving activities during the subsequent alen days. · 
43 

the weather forecast on TV for direC;t notification to the public. Radio stations broadcast public 

service announcements and include clert notification in news stories. 

Employers and other companies are exploring alternative methods of notifying the public. 

Methods such as flying ozone alert flags and placing window stickers and placards are being tried. 

As mentioned above, many areas, such as Dallas, have developed an alert symbol for the media to 

use. Employers can also use the symbol when informing their employees about the program via 

company newsletters. Local transportation agencies also get involved by announcing the alert on 

local congestion management boards. Private businesses are also getting involved in public 

notification (e.g., baseball stadium signs, gas station signs). 

Quantification of Program Impacts and Effectiveness 

Once an episodic program has been implemented, methods to evaluate the program's 

effectiveness are needed. The most common methods used include: surveys, tracking increased 

ridership or employer vouchers, examination of congestion and parking data, or review of air 

quality and meteorological data Each of these is discussed in detail below. 

With the exception of the longer-running woodsmoke control programs, most programs surveyed 

have not tried to quantitatively assess impacts. Since the goal of most programs is to reduce or 

eliminate air quality violations, the ultimate measure of the program's success is improved air 

quality. However, many factors besides those related to the episodic control program affect air 

quality.6 Since episodic control programs rely on changing people's behavior in a way that 

reduces pollutant emissions, analysis techniques for assessing program effectiveness must include 

data on changes in individual activity, such as a reduction in vehicle miles traveled (VMT). While 

most program coordinators contacted for this study have been collecting survey data primarily to 

examine the impacts of their public outreach and education programs, this infonnation has not 

generally included a significant amount of information on resulting changes in activity levels. 

Most areas conduct surveys at the initiation of the episodic control program or at the beginning of 

the ozone or woodsmoke season in order to assess the level of understanding of the problem by 

the general public. These surveys can help provide insight into the kinds of educational materials 

that need to be developed to help assure program success. For instance, surveys have shown that 

the public is often confused about terminology that has previously appeared in the media in other 

contexts. "Ozone" has proven to be particularly confusing since the media has reported the 

negative impacts of depleting stratospheric ozone ("good" ozone). Being informed that groundlevel ozone is "bad" (e.g., unhealthy) often seems contradictory to those surveyed. Many regions 

have also found that the public.had little understanding of the impact they can have on air quality 

concentrations with the exception of reducing driving. 

A second survey is often distributed at the end of the ozone or woodsmoke season. Depending 

upon how long a program has been in existence, this survey could be designed to assess (1) if the 

public was aware that the episodic program was occurring, (2) if the public was aware of the 

actions they could take to reduce emissions; and (3) if any changes in individual behavior resulted 

from the influence of the episodic program. As with the initial surveys, most of the areas doing 

follow-up studies have focused on assessing public awareness;' only a few are looking into 

6 Weather conditions. for example, vary from year to year and affect formation of pollutants such as ozone. 

'For example, in Cincinnati. surveys were completed last year to estimate effective~ of the program. Last year's 

spring survey indicated that -17% knew about the program; in the fall. that number bad increased to 65%. 
44 

quantifying changes in behavior. This is partially A result of the careful wording and timing 

required for questions examining behavior changes. Many areas, however, did express the desire 

to collect this type of information in the future. Personnel from the Sacramento program stated 

that they would like to collect alert-day survey data during the 1996 ozone season, hoping that 

this would provide new data to assess the effectiveness of that program. 

Another type of data that many areas are currently tracking through existing mechanisms is transit 

ridership. Most transit agencies, particularly in areas where fare-reduction measures have been 

implemented by the episodic control program, are collecting transit ridership data. In many areas, 

transit ridership incr~ especially when reductions are offered. Some areas, such as 

Cincinnati, found that transit ridership increased much more significantly when fare reduction 

extended throughout the ozone season, rather than only on alert days. Another concern 

expressed by an area in a particularly warm part of the country was that some increased ridership, 

~sociated with free (rather than reduced fare) transit, was the result of riders without specific 

destinations enjoying the air-conditioned buses. 

Other areas are tracking data on changes in behavior in cooperation with participating employers. 

San Francisco, for example, is implementing a. pilot program with 11 companies in the Santa Clara 

Valley this summer ( 1996) to quantify some of the transportation impacts of the Bay Area 

program. Free transit (CALTRAIN, San Jose light rail, and buses) will be offered to the 

employees of these companies on episode days. The RIDES program CB.ay Area carpool 

program) also notifies all employees of potential carpool partners well before episode days to help 

them be more prepared when alerts are called. The employers have agreed to monitor facility 

entrances to collect traffic count data to help determine changes in driver behavior. Other areas 

are also considering using employers to collect participation data from their employees. 

Another type of data being collected by episodic control programs to gauge program effectiveness 

is data on forecast accuracy. Many areas are tracking data on the ability of the forecast team and 

individual meteorologists (who often use different techniques) to identify alert days: While some 

areas prefer to be conservative to prevent a violation, other areas are sensitive to the number of 

alert days called over the course of a year. These areas are concerned that calling too many alerts 

could cause the public to ignore the warnings over time. An additional concern, which should be 

factored in when evaluating predictive forecasting accUracy over the course of a long-running 

program, is the long-term impact of the program or any mandatory controls and other activities 

(e.g., fleet turnover) that effectively reduce emissions over time. If program participants are 

actually reducing levels of emissions on an annual as well as episodic basis, the empirical 

relationships between the meteorological parameters and ambient concentrations should change 

over time. Thus, the predictive techniques used by each program must be evaluated periodically 

to ensure that the methods remain effective. · 

All areas are collecting and tracking ambient concentrations. Since some areas are only 

concerned about "shaving the peaks" off' of the high concentrations, comparison of historical 

ambient air quality data, especially on alert days with similar meteorological conditions, could 

prove insightful. To date, however, we have only collected data from areas that have been 

examining data on alert and violations days. In San Francisco, for example, the followiiig 

statistics were reported in eomparison with the state ozone standard: 

1991 11 Alert days 

1992 17 Alert days 

8 potential exceedances avoided 

10 potential exceedanc.es avoided 
1993 19 Alert days 

1994 12 Alert days 

4 potential exceeduices avoided 

6 potential exceed<»nces avoided 

45 

Twenty-one of the programs that we examined have collected data to evaluate their programs. 

Table 3-10 summarizes the methods most frequently used collect data used. As mentioned 

earlier, most programs are collecting survey and transit ridership data. Agencies that have been 

collecting these data for a few years are now developing methods and collecting data from 

employers and stationary sources. A few programs are also collecting traffic count data, 

stationary source activity information, air quality monitoring data, Air Pollution Hotline "hits" and 

complaints, and gasoline sales data. 

TABLE 3-10. Methods most 

Data Collection Method 

Survey of general public 

Communication with participating companies and stationary sources 

Transit ridership data from transit agency 

Survey of participating companies &/or stationary sources 

Other 

15 

13 

12 

10 

5 

We were able to obtain actual data for 20 of the episodic control programs. The two main types 

of data that we were able to obtain include: ( 1) the number of companies participating in the 

program (13 programs provided data); and (2) public awareness levels estimated from survey data 

( 1 O programs provided data). Figure 3-8 shows the variation in the number of companies 

participating in various programs. Figure 3-9 shows the level of public awareness of the episodic 

control. programs.. A number of different factors could be affecting both of these figures, 

including: (1) the size of the metropolitan area, (2) the extent and success of the public outreach 

program, (3) the age of the episodic program, (4) the level of cooperation the media has 

extended. ( 5) the general complexity of issues vying for public attention in each area, and ( 6) the 

methods used to collect the data. Figure 3-10 which contains plots of some of these parameters, 

however, does not indicate any significant individual correlations evident in the data collected in 

this study. Since the data were not originally collected to compare different programs, not 

collected using similar data collection protocols, and are affected by many different parameters, it 

is not surprising that significant correlations are not evident. 
Beaumont, TX 1 

Toledo, OH 

San Joaquin, CA 

Chicago, IL 

Austin, TX 

Baltimore, MD 

Milwaukee, WI 

Albuquerque, NM . 

Tulsa, OK 

Cincinnati, OH 

0 200 400 

800 

•••••••••••••••• 1.500 

600 800 1,000 1,200 1,400 1,600 

I of Companie• Participating 

FIGURE 3-8. Company participation levels of episodic con.trot programs. 
San Joaquin, CA 

Chicago, IL 

BaltimOre, MD 

Cincinnati, OH 

San Francisco, CA 

Detroit, Ml 

Sacramento, CA 

Richmond,VA 

Washington, D.C. 

Spokane, WA 

0% 10% 20% 50% 70% 80% 90% 100% 

1~ 

FIGURE 3-9. Public awareness of episodic control programs. 
.J8 

FIGURE 3-10. Comparison of episodic control program parameters 

Age of Program vs Public Awareness 

• 100% ~ 

• • • • ! • 80% 7 c: 

! • • 60% ... • ~ 40% i • :I 

.a 20% + • :I 

a. 0% 

0 2 3 4 5 s 7 8 9 

NumblrolY..,. 

# 

Age of Pre ;ram w Com~11y Partlc .1tfon 

1500 T • 

I • 

1000 + • ! s SQO + • 

is ! • • .... ' I • • • ot i • I 

0 ·2 3 4 5 8 7 8 I 

! 

tan .. ! 

! 

Populdon w Company Participation 

1500 T • I 

J I • i J 1000 t • i I i 

~L.·. • I - • 0 

.. I • • ,• 

0 1000000 2000000 3000000 4000000 ,..,'#an 5000000 eooooao 7000000 8000000 ~1 I 

Fundlftt w Public AwaNn ... 

1:J • • i • • c: I • I 60% + • 

l I 

40%+ • 

= " 

20% t i 

A. 

0% ; 

i • I '

s $200000 $400000. $800000 $800000 S1000000 s1200000 I 

FundJnt 
4 PLANS FOR PHASE m 

The next phase of this study (Phase ill) will involve a more in-depth, independent evaluation of 

episodic emission control programs for four selected areas, and of the techniques used to evaluate 

the effectiveness of the individual control measures included in the programs. 

There are two basic goals of this task: ( l) develop appropriate methods for evaluating varying 

types of control programs and (2) apply these methods in evaluating and assessing the 

effectiveness of the selected programs. The evaluation approaeh will vary based upon the degree 

of information available, and our challenge will be to develop methods that can appropriately be 

applied across all programs when evaluating programs that have different levels of data 

availability. The exact approach to be taken will be strongly dependent upon the amount of 

information available in each area. ContinUing discussions with the EPA will be necessary as the 

details of the methodologies are developed. 

We are currently planning to evaluate the following programs: 

San Francisco/Sacramento 

Cincinnati 

Dallas 

Washington D. C I Baltimore 

These areas operate episodic programs which are sufficiently different in scope and focus to 

represent a wide variety of potential programs and geographic areas. Most of the programs have 

been in existence for at least three years and have been collecting data on the program's 

effectiveness. Furthermore, several of the programs (Baltimore, San Francisco, and Sacramento), 

are·currently developing techniques to quantify the impacts of their programs. 

THE SAN FRANCisCO BAY AREA AND SACRAMENTO PROGRAMS 

The Bay Area Air Quality Management District (BAAQMD) has been operating its "Spare the 

Air" ozone episodic control program since 1991, which makes it one of the oldest ozone 

programs in the country. The Bay Area was redesignated to attainment for ozone in 1995; 

however multiple violations of the federal and state ozone standards have been measured during 

the last two years. Since the largest emission source in the Bay Area is motor vehicles and since 

measured exceedances are typically marginal, the episodic program is focused on."shaving off the 

peaks" and maintaining the attainment status of the area 

The Bay Area has been trying to develop techniques to quantify the program's effectiveness. 

Data which are being collected includes: (1) Public awareness data on local air pollution issues 

(collected using public opinion survey); (2) transit ridership levels and traffic counts (obtained 

from the transportation agency); (3) employee participation rates (collected using surveys 

completed by participating employers. For example, a fall 1995 public awareness survey found 

that 73 percent of the respondents knew of the program and that 28 percent said they changed 

behavior because of the program. This summer (1996) the BAAQMD.has begun a pilot project 
50 

I . 

with 11 companies to collect data on changes in employee driving activity. Additional e·fforts that 

the BAAQMD will be pursuing include three spot surveys and free transit in the city of 

Livermore. We anticipate being able to incorporate some of these new data into a more 

complete evaluation of the program. 

Sacramento is a serious nonattainment area for ozone. This program, which is a fairly new one, is 

modeled largely after the San Francisco program and is being coordinated with the new San 

Joaquin Valley episodic program since they geographically share commuters from both areas. It 

is also one of the few programs that has attempted to quantify the reductions in vehicle trips and 

emissions as a result of the program. An intensive data collection effort has been undertaken in 

the form of annual public opinion surveys and biannual mini-polls after episode days. These data 

will be used to assess the effectiveness of the program. 

THE CJNCINNA TI PROGRAM 

The Cincinnati program has been in operation since July of 1994 and is managed by the OhioKentucky-Indiana (OKI) Council of Regional Governments. Because this group is the MPO for 

Cincinnati, it has been very successful in obtaining CMAQ funding to help support and grow their 

program. It appears to be well organized and has creative partnerships to assist in meeting the 

program goals. Of significant interest is that $986,000 is budgeted over three years for the 

episodic control program and another $1.875 million is budgeted over. three years to subsidize the 

fare reduction program. This is one of the most well-funded programs examined in our analysis. 

As such, we believe that further 'analysis of this program's organization, education campaign, data 

collection efforts, measures of employer and public behavior changes, etc. will provide current 

and fledgling programs with a wealth of information. We are aware that OKI has been sharing 

artwork and outreach materials with other interested programs We expect to use the information 

gained from the Cincinnati analysis to gauge whether lesser funded programs have been successful 

and examine if the money Cincinnati spent has been effectively helping to support new programs 

because of information s~g efforts .. 

As a major employer and emission source in the area, Cincinnati Gas and Electric contracted with 

NERA (National Economic Research Association) to develop a report titled "Economic Impact of 

VOC emission reductions beyond the 15% plan in Cincinnati CMSA" The report quantifies the 

economic impact of going to "serious" status. We have not obtained a copy of this analysis but 

plan to examine the report and assess its broader implications for other areas. There are also 

transit ridership data that we hope to examine during Phase m. 

THE DALLAS PROGRAM 

The Dallas episodic control program has been operated by the North Central Texas Council of 

Government (NCTCOG) with assi~ce from the Texas Natural Resources Conservation 

Commission (TNRCC) since the summer of 1993. The Ozone Alert program has been developed 

to assist in bringing the moderate nonattainment area into attainment. The NCTOG publishes, on 

the world wide web, statistics on the number of alert and exceedance days since 1993. In the last 

three years, an average of 24 alert days have been called during each ozone season and an average 

·of9 violations per year have been experienced. In 1996, two exceedalices of the.federal standard 

have been measured at two of the Dallas monitoring sites. Historical data have shown that ozone 

concentrations have been decreasing over the last 10 years to 3-4 violations. per year; however, 

1 S exceedances were measured in Dallas in 1995. 
51 

The Dallas program has one of the largest employer participation programs with 1500employers 

currently receiving fax notifications on alert days. Many of the larger employers in the area have 

committed to reduced lawn maintenance and other activities which can be put off on a short tenn 

basis. Many have also pledged to educate their employees and offer incentives. Texas 

Instruments, for example, offers $I/day/carpool and preferential parking for carpools. It has also 

built storage lockers and installed showers as part of a bike program and also encourage 

telecommuting. 

The Dallas program has collected the following data on program effectiveness: 

Surveys 

Transit ridership 

Traffic counts 

Stationary source participation 

Employee participation 

We have begun to collect some of this infonnation, which is particularly interesting since 

NCTCOG and TNRCC have tried to collect data from a large variety of different participants 

involved in the program. The TNRCC is currently working with NCTCOG to evaluate the 

effectiveness of the program .. We would like to examine the data collected by NCTOG and the 

techniques under development by TNRCC to evaluate this program. 

TliE BALTIMORE-WASHINGTON D.C. PROGRAM 

The Washington 0.C. and Baltimore episodic control programs (Ozone Action Days) have a 

history dating back to 1993 when the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) 

conducted an internal pilot-forecasting program to test forecasting methodology. In 1994, MDE 

launched the color-coded forecasting program in Baltimore, and in 1995, MDE and the· 

Washington Council of Governments expanded the forecasting program to include the D.C. 

region. Currently, between 100 and 150 organizations and business are involved in Ozone Action 

Days and it is estimated that 50,000 individuals have heard of the program. The Washington and 

Baltimore programs have worked together extensively and, as a result, offer a unique glimpse into 

both the positive and negative aspects of collaboration between episodic control programs and the 

government agencies which implement them. 

Originally, the intent was to conduct a detailed examination of the Philadelphia episodic control 

program. This program, however, only began operation in.May 1996 and is therefore still in its 

infancy. As a result, partnerships and participation levels are predicted to be much lower than in 

the Baltimore-D.C. program. In addition, Philadelphia's program hires fewer personnel and has a 

smaller budget than the Ozone Action Days program. For these reasons, Ozone Action Days was 

deemed a more appropriate subject for further study and evaluation. 

53 

APPENDIX A 

EPISODIC CONTROL PROGRAM CONT ACTS 

Appendix A - Episodic Control Program Contacts 

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.. : 

'to~..;.~t : 

: .. 

.. r.•··-··m··: .. · .. . . 

·:· ·: .·.· 

~))·. . . ,. ··· ... · .. _::;::·.::·::·:.:-:-· .. 

< • ·> ....•.. r . ::. ::;·.;::::·:::::::;·::.;.'. ·:: if~1m: .. :r }:··:;:·r=:m·::~;;;,=. ·.::_-·::·. i',~'f1; ... : \:~~'.: \/::;· ··:·.-.·:-: .·.·.···· :;. ..... / .. <>· :····::.··_;.·.·:·.· ·::::··-:-·:-·.:· .. ·.·.·· 

. >.P~~;;# .•.. ·:-:-.:···:-:-:· 

·wan1e ···: .. •.• • < • AeehcVJPers<>n · ·· · · ;·.· 

Address ··.J. 

Region ID Baltimore, MD Ozone Ozone Alert MD Department of Environment, (410)631-3260 2500 Droening Hwy 

Caryn Coyle Baltimore MD 21224 

Washington DC Ozone Ozone Acti~ Day Washington COG, Stephanie (202) 962-3336 m N. Capitol St. NE Suite )00 

Oankovic/Dana Grabiner (202) 962-3360 Washinaton DC 20002 

·Pittsburgh, PA Ozone OJ.one Action PA DEP, Southwest PA Ozone (412) 392-4503 165 Cuny Hollow Road, Pittsburgh, 

Action Partner8hip, Betsy (412)442-4182 PA 15236-4604 

Mallison 

Philadelphia, PAI Ozone Ozone Action Delaware Valley Regional (215) 592-1800 Bourse Blvd 8th Floor 

NJ/l>FJMD Planning Commission, Ron I 11 S Independence Mall East 

Ro11aenburk Philadelnhia PA 19106-5215 

Riclunond, VA Ozone Ozone AdviSOJ)' VA Department ofEnvirorunental (804) 698-4424 P.O. Box 10009 

Oualitv. Jim Svdnor Riclunoud. VA 2 3240-0009 

Region IV Atlanta, GA Ozone Ozone Alert Atlanta Cluunber of Commerce, ( 404) 586-8468 235 lnterpational Blvd. NW 

Aneli Nuateren Atlanta. GA 30303-2718 

Charlotle, NC Ozone Ozone Alert Division of Environmental (919) 715-0250 2728 Capital Boulevard 

Manaaement Anne Galamb Raleiah. NC 27604 

Region V Chicago, IL Ozone Partners for Clean Air I Northeast lllinois Planning 1-800-451-5983 222 S. Riverside Ploza Suite I 8PO 

Ozone Action Davs Comm. Terrv Seitzer (815) 219-6060 llN> Chicaao U. 60605 

Milwaukee, WI Ozone Wisconsin DNR, Bureau of Air (608) 266-3725 

Manaaement • Lance Green 

Indianapolis, IN Ozone Partners for Clean Air Indiana Dept of Environmental (317) 233-5684 100 N. Senate, Rm 1001 

Management, Joyce Newland P.O. Box 601S 

badianaoolis IN 46206-60 I 5 

Detroit, Ml Ozone Ozone Action Days Southeast Michigan COG & Clean (313) 961-4869 660 Pliw Dr. Suite 1900 

Air Coalition Deborah Cohen (313) 961-4266 Detroit Ml 48226 

CincilUl8ti, OH Ozone Smog Alert I Do Your Regional Ozone Conunission; OKI (Sil) 333 -4741 Regional Ozone Commission 

S~ for Cleaner Air· . Regional Council, Judi Craig 801-D West Eighth St. Suite 400 

Cincinnati 01145203 

Region VI Tulsa, OK Ozone Ozone Alert Indian Nations Cowacil of (918) 584-7526 201 West 5th St. Suite 600 

Governments. Glen Travis (918) 583-1024 f Tulsa OK 74103 

Texas (Statewide) Ozone Ozone Action Day - lNRCC (Met. forecasting), (512)219-1000 v 2124 Park 35 Circle 

Forecasting Gre22 Nudd Nadia Sorinaob (512)239-1605 f Austin TX 78711 

Dallas I Ft. Worth Ozone Ozone-Action Day North Central Texas COO, Troy (817) 695-9218 v 616 Six Flags Dr. P.O. Box 5888, 

TX Stuckey (817)640-7806 f ArlinKton TX 76005-5888 
,:·:'./::.:::·:: .... ··:.·,==::-.·::·:··:·: ... ·: :.:: .. : .. ; :.= .. •.=== .tF·· .. . . . . ,: :::: .. : ::.~ 

.: . .:::.:::.,:)(' .. ::·· .. : · ... ·~:-:\<···.: .· . .· I nration 1.··· .. : ........... , ... ,:;:. .••• . : ... • --•u~• 

·EPA\ :). 

·::::;;:::::.:: .• .·.·•··.· : ... .:·:{f)I;:~f~t:}~~:~:~·f ::=·::::: :··.:•,-=.-.··.··:'":·::.···.= ••, .·.::·;.;;.:::·.::· :.: .. ,·· .. :·-:····· .:;·····.· .. : :;: '"? f: . : , .. :::::::·:·\ ·}·./=/\_\=: :·:.-:···. : . ·. . .· . : ::)}"::=: =~!;~~tlfa~;;~~ .... . .. 

• \R~itj(;~; : ... Cini' · · Polluianl ':'; .. Name Phone ti ... · Ac/dress .. 

Austin, TX Ozone Ozone Ac:tion Day Central Texas Clean Air Force, (512)473-9606 y 1600 8 Smith Rd 

Nancv Lockhoof Faith Geonr.e CSl2)473-9611 f Austin TX 78721 

Bcawnont / Port Ozone Ozone Action Day Soullieast Texas Regional (409) 724-1911 P.O. Box 1387 

Arthur, TX Plannins Comnlission, Bob Nederland, TX 77627 

Dickinson 

Corpus Christi, Ozone Ozone Action Day Corpus Christi (Ozone Task (Sil) 880-3222 .v P.O. Box 9277 

TX Force}. Bill He1minirs 1512} 880 -3839 f Comus Christi. TX 78469 

Houston/ Ozone Ozone Action Day City of Houston (Ozone Watch), (713) 640-4501 y SOO Jefferson Suite 1800 

Galveston. TX Lilibelh Andre (713l6S8-44S8 f Houston TX 77002 

San Antonio, TX Ozone Ozone Action Day Alamo Area Air Coalition, Shelley (2 IO) 22S-S201 v 118 Broadway Suite 400 

Whitworth l2 I 0) 22S-S937 f San Antonio TX 78205 

Tyler I Longview I Oz.one 01.011e Ac:tion Day Northeast Texas Air Care Gaoup, (903) 237-6080 Eastman Chemical Co. 

Marshall, TX Pwn Kamsey, Jeny Jarboe, (903) 2l7-S838 v P.O. Dox 7444 

Eastman Chemical Comnanv {903)237-6318 f Lon2vicw TX 75607 

Albuquerque, NM PM10&. CleaQ Air Campaign Albuquerque Department of (SOS) 768-2620 v P.O. Box 1293 

co Environmental Health and Energy, (SOS) 768-2617 f Albuquerque, NM 87103 

Alana Eairer 

Region Vll St. Louis, Ml Ozone Spare the Air St. Louis Regional Clean Air (314) 935-5480 y SLRCGA 

Partnership; St Louis Regional (314) 444-112"2 f 100 South Fourth St. Suite 500 

Commerce and Orowth Assn; St. Louis, MO 63102 

JavTurner 

Region VDI Denver, CO PM10 Clean Air Colorado Colorado Department of (303) 692-3281 v 4201 E. Arkansas Ave. 

Transoortation. Christooher Dann {303) 782-5493 f Denver CO 80222 

Region IX Ph~ix,AZ Ozone&. Ozone High Air Maricopa Counly Environmental (602) 506-6710 v 2406 South 24th St Suite E 111 

co Pollution Advisory Services Department, Johanna (602) S06-6179 f Pboenix, AZ 85034 

(0-a>ne); Residential Kuspert 

Woodbuming 

Restriction ICO\ 

Sacramento, CA Ozone, Spare the Air Sacramento Metropolitan Air (916) 386-6180 v 8411 Jackson Rd. 

PM10 Quality Managemcot District, (916) 386-7040 f Sacramento. CA 95826 

KCJ1Y Shearer 

San Francisco, CA Ozone Spare the Air Day Area Air Quality Management (41S)749-490S 939 Ellis St 

District, Teresa Lee (4 IS) 9S6-1811 San Francisco, CA 94 I09 

San Joaquin Ozone I Spu ..... Air San Joaquin Unified Air Pollution (209)497-1075 v 1999 Toulunu1c SI. 

Valley, CA Control Districl, Josette Merced (209) 233-0140 f Fn:sno, CA 93721 

Bello 
··-Re ion 

RegionX 

Northwest WA 

Mt. Vernon 

Olympia, WA 

Spokane, WA 

PM10& 

Ozone 

PM10 

PM10 

PM10 

·. NameWoodsmoke 

Curtailment (PM10) 

Smog Watch (OLone) 

Woodsmoke 

Curtailment 

Woodsmqke 

CW18ilment 

Wood Stove 

CW18ilment 

Puget Sound Air Pollution Control 

Agency, 

Jim Nolun (l'M10) 

Alice Collin swooJ Otom: 

Northwest Air Pollution Control 

A enc I.aura Curl 

Olympia Air Pollution Control 

District, Jon Kelly &. Craig 

Wcctasu 

Spokane County Air Pollution 

Control Agency, Eric Skelton, & 

1.isa Woodard 

Phone# 

(206) 343-8800 v 

(206) 343-7522 f 

(206) 689-4043 v 

206 343-7522 f 

(360) 428-1617 x202 v 

360 428-1620 f 

(360)438-8768 xl09 v 

&lllv 

(509) 456-4727 v 

(509) 459-6828 f 

Address 

110 Union St. Suite 500 

Seattle, WA 98!01-2038 

302 Pine St. Suite 207 

Mt. Vernon WA 98273-3852 

909 Slcater-Kiru1ey Road SE Suite I 

Lacey, WA 98503 

110 I West College Suite 403 

Spokane, WA 9920 I 

5 'i 

Appendix B 

EPISODIC CONTROL PROGRAM FACT SHEET 

EPISODIC CONTROL PROGJU.\I. FACT SHEET 

EPISODIC CONTROL PROGRAM - FACT SHEET 

GENERAL INFORMATION 

Name of Respondent (Title): 

Area of Expertise: 

Agency AfTdiation: ----------------------

Phone#: ----------- Names of Additional Contacts: 

BASIC PROGRAM INFORMATION 

1) Program Name: 

2) Geographic Area of Coverage 

Cities/State: 

Counties: ----------------------

Attainment Status (CO I PMlO I 03): -------------

3) Implementing Agency/Agencies: ----------------

4) Program History 

Start Date: ··-------- End Date: ---------
EPISODIC C01V!ROL PROGRA.\1 -FACT SHEET 

Implementation Milestones (i.e., program phases or major changes in the 

program): 

5) If the program name includes the word "ozone,, (i.e., Ozone Alert Program), has this 

been a source of confusion for participants? (For ~xample, participants may mistake 

ambient ozone with the ozone layer in the upper atmosphere causing a misunderstanding 

about the nature of the problem.) 

D The program name does not include the word "ozone". (Skip to Question '7) 

D The program name does include the word "ozone" but this has not been 

confusing to participants. (Skip to Question '7) 

D The program name does include the word "ozone" and this has been 

confusing to participants. 

6) If the word "ozone" in the program name has been a source of confusion, please specify 

all actions being taken to solve this problem. (Check all that apply.) 

D No actions are being taken. D Change program name 

D Increase public outreach to educate the public about the difference between 

ambient ozone (smog) and the ozone layer. 

D Other (Please specify):----------------

PROGRAM SPECIFICS 

7) Program Design 

7a) Stated Program Goals (Please check all that apply and rank the three most important, 

with 1 being the most important Qlld 3 being the least).: 

0 Public education rank: 

D To attain air quality standards (NAAQS) rank: 

D To meet specific emission reduction targets rank: 

D Congestion management rank: 

D Economic benefits to the area of staying in 

attainment rank: 

D Health benefits rank: 

D To maintain.the attainment status of the area rank: -·- D Other (Please specify): 
~ 

EPISODIC CONTROL PROGR-4.\l. FALT SHEET 

The following questions ask about specific actions that can be taken by program participar,ts to 

reduce emissions from mobile, area and stationary sources. While many of the choices provided 

may be effective means to reduce emissions, please choose only those which are explicitly 

recommended by the program. 

7b) Specific Travel-Related Suggestions Made to the General Public on Pollution Episode 

J2m (Check ail that apply.): 

0 No travel-related suggestions are being made 

D Avoid driving at lunch time (take lunch to school or work) 

D Use alternative modes of transportation (car/vanpools, transit, etc) instead of 

driving alone 

0 Keep vehicle tuned-up 

0 Combine multiple auto trips throughout the day 

0 Work from home (telecommute) 

0 Avoid refueling until the evening (i.e., after 6 p.m.} 

D Keep travel speeds at the speed limit and steady 

D Change work schedules to avoid the commute 

D Other (Please specify): ----------------

7c) Specific Suggestions being Made to the Public on Pollution Episode Days to Reduce Area 

Source Emissions (Check all that apply): 

D No suggestion5 are made to the public to reduce area source emissions 

0 Avoid using gasoline-powered garden equipment (lawnmower~ blowers, etc) 

0 Avoid using charcoal lighter fluid 

0 Avoid household maintenance activities that produce emissions (painting, 

degreasmg, etc) 

0 Other (Please specify): ---------------

7d) Does the program include a company participation element whereby local businesses notify 

their employees when an air pollution episode occurs and inform them of actions they can 

· take to help? 

0 Yes · 0 No (Skip to Question 7g) 

3 
EPISODIC CQ,'fl"ROL PROGR.A..\1- FACT SHE...."T 

7e) Specific Travel-Related Suggestions that the Program Encourages Companies to Make to 

Their Employees on Pollution Episode Days (Check ail that apply): 

0 No measures are suggested by the program 

0 Use alternative modes of transportation for the commute to and from work 

( car/vanpools, transit, etc) 

0 Avoid driving at lunch time (eat lunch at work) 

0 Keep vehicle tuned-up 

0 Work from home (telecommute) 

0 Avoid refueling until the evening (i.e., after 6 p.m.) 

0 Keep travel speeds at the speed limit and steady 

0 Change work schedules to avoid the commute 

0 Other (Please specify): -----------------

· 7f) Temporary Policy Changes that the Program Encourages Companies to Make on Pollution 

Episode Days (Check all that apply): 

0 No measures are suggested by the program 

0 Postpone fleet refueling until the evening (i.e., after 6 p.m.). 

D Use fleet vehicles to attend lunch and meetings 

0 Use conferencing technologies instead of face to face meetings· 

0 Other (Please specify):----------------

7g) Does the program include a stationary source element whereby participating industries 

voluntarily take actions to reduce emissions on pollution episode days? 

0 Yes 0 No (Skip to Question 7i) 

7h) Specific Sugaestions made to Statjonazy Sources on Pollution Episode Days (Check all 

that apply): 

0 Reduce high-emitting production activities 

D Avoid maintenance activities (painting, degreasing, tank cleaning, etc) 

D Postpone landscaping activities (lawn mowing, tractor & backhow use, etc.) 

0 Switch to cleaner burning fuels 

0 Other (Please specify):·----------------
EPISODIC COiVTROL PROGIUW ·FACT SHEET 

7i) Forecasting Pollution Episodes: 

Agency or organization providing the weather forecasts: ---------

Agency or organization forecasting the pollution episodes: --------

Standards/methodologies used for making pollution episode determinations: 

Parameters examined to forecast episode day: 

Method used to forecast episode day: 

D Persistence D Meteorological Intuition 

D Empirical 0 Algorithm based 

D Other (Please specify): -------------

Please discuss how the method was developed: ----------

Please discuss how accurate the method is and whether data on accuracy are 

available: 

7j) Groups Notified of a Forecasted Pollution Episode (Check all that apply): 

0 Television stations 

0 Radio stations 

0 Newspapers 

Method of 11otificatio11 (fax, phone, etc): ___ _ 

Method of notification (fax, phone, etc): ----

Method of notification (fax, phone, etc): ----

0 Participating Stationary Sources 

Method of notification (fax, phone, etc): ___ _ 

0 Participating Employers Method of notification (fax, phone, etc): ___ _ 

0 Gas stations Method of notification (fax, phone, etc): ___ _ 

0 Other (Please specify): 

.5 
EPISODIC CONTROL PROGRAAf ·FACT SHEET 

After being notified of a pollution episode, how do the television stations report this 

information to the public? Check all that apply. (skip this question if television 

stations are not notified) 

0 Mentioned in the news report 0 Discussed in the weather forecast 

0 A public service announcement is broadcast 

0 Other (Please specify): 

After being notified of a pollution episode, how do the newspapers report this 

information to the public? Check all that apply. (skip this question if newspapers are 

not notified) 

0 Included with the Pollutant Standard Index (PSI) report 

0 Mentioned in an article 

0 Space is allocated for an announcement 

0 Other (Please specify): 

After b~ing notified of a pollution episode, how do the radio stations report this 

information to the public? Check all that apply. (skip this question if radio stations 

are not notified) 

0 . A public service announcement is broadcast 

. 0 Radio hosts make announcements 

0 Mentioned in the news report 

0 Other (Please specify): 

After being notified of a pollution episode, how do the gas stations report this 

information to the public? Check all that apply. (skip this question if gas stations are not 

notified) 

0 Through the use of gas station flags 

0 Messages on gas pumps 

0 Other (Please specify): 

7k) Education/Outreach 

Agency/organization in charge of public education & outreach: 
EPISODIC CONTROL PROGRA.W. FACT SHEET 

Methods used to inform the public about the program (Check all that apply): 

0 Television advertisements D Radio advertisements 

0 Newspaper advertisements 0 Billboard advertisements 

D Internet web site 0 Workshops (for schools, industry, public) 

0 Public education booths at community events 

0 Creation and dissemination of public education materials 

0 Provide information to participating employees through their employers 

0 Other (Please specify): 

Was a suivey conducted~ or is one being planned, to establish a baseline of existing 

knowledge about the program? D Yes 0 . No (Skip to Question 71) 

Was a follow up suivey conducted, or is one being planned, to test the effectiveness 

of the outreach program? 0 Yes D No 

71) Legal Authority 

Are there any local or state laws/regulations that mandate the existence of the program? 

D No 

0 Yes (If Yes, please specify the law or regulation): ----

7m) Enforceable Commitments 

· Is the program iricluded in a State Implementation Plan (SIP) or maintenance plan or 

do stationary sources include it in their permits? 

0 Yes 0 No 

8) Program Funding and Administration 

Sa) Fyodjng Sources for Each Agency Inyolved in the Program 

Jn the spaces below please provide the funding source for each agency, and the 

funding duration (i.e., year long or seasonalfunding). 

7 
f.P!SOD!C CO,VIROL PR.OGRA.\tf ·FACT SHEET 

Agency funding Source Funding Duration 

Ezample: APCD !STEA. CA!•lQ Seasonal (May - Sept) 

Sb) Budget 

1998 Budget: -----

In ·the spaces provided below please provide a budget breakdown for each budget area (~.e., 

administration, public outreach, data co/lection etc): 

Agency Budget Area Amount($) 

Ezamp/1: APCI) Admi11istratio11 $7$,000 I yr 

APCD Public 0111nacli S2J,OOO/yr 

ABC Consultant Analysis S2J, 000 I yr 

Is the program's current fiscal year ( 1998) budget an adequate amount of funding to fulfill the 

programs goals? 0 Yes D No 

How would the program use an additional $100,0007 ----------

How would the program use an additional $200,0007 __ ___... ______ _ 

Sc) In-Kind Contributions (Donations, Services Provided by Corporations/Agencies): 
EPISODIC CONTROL PROGR.-t.'vf. FACT SHEET 

8d) Staffing (For each category below, please indicate the number of staff working on the 

episodic control program) 

Paid Volunteer Tut& 

Number of full-time staff (or full-time 

equivalents) at the main agency implementing 

the program 

Number of full-time staff (or full-time 

equivalents) at other agencies affiliated 

with the program 

9) Program Participation 

9a) Predicted Participation Levels: 

Were estimates of participation levels made prior to the start of the program? 

D Yes 0 No (Skip to the Question 9b) 

If Yes, please indicate the predicted number of participants for each of the 

following groups:. 

Stationary sources 

Employers 

Individual drivers 

Users of non-road engines (garden equipment, etc) 

Users of woodbuming stoves 

Other (Please specify):.--------

9b) Actual Participation Levels: 

Are actual program participation levels being tracked? 

# 

0 Yes 0 No (Skip to the Question 9c) 

If Yes, please indicate the number of participants for each of the following 

groups: 

Stationary sources 

Employers 

Individual drivers 

Users of non-road engines (garden equipment, etc) 

Users ofwoodbuming stoves 

Other (Please specify): ---------

9 

# 
EPISODIC CO!VfROL PROGRA}d - FACT SHEET 

9c) Incentives Offered to Encourage Employer Participation: 

D Public recognition :.=; Flexibility on local permits 

0 Other (Please specify): 

9d) Incentives Offered by Employers to Encourage Participation by their Employees: 

D No incentives are being offered 

0 Allow flexible work schedules 

0 Free or discounted transit fares 

lJ Free or discounted lunches 

D Preferential parking for car/vanpools 

D Guaranteed emergency rides home for employees who car/vanpool or take 

transit 

0 Other (Please specify); -----------------

9e) Incentives-Offered to Encourage Participation by the General Public (Check all 

that apply): 

0 No incentives are being offered 0 Free transit 

D Transit discounts 0 Auto repair I tune-up discounts . 

D Monetary rewards 

0 Other (Please specify): ------------------

9t) Data Collected to Estimate Participation Levels (Check all that apply): 

0. No data is being collected 0 Transit ridership levels 

D Gas sales data D Traffic counts 

D Employee participation rates provided by participating employers 

D Information provided by participating stationary sources 

D Information provided by participating companies which use non-road engines 

(i.e., landscaping companies reporting that they didn't use lawn mowers for the 

day) 

0 Qther (Please specify): ----------------
EPISODIC COlvTROL PROGRAM. FACT SHE.t::.""T 

· 10) Program Evaluation 

lOa) What were the original expectations about the effectiveness of the program? 

1 Ob) How was the panicipation data collected in Question 9f? (Check ail that apply): 

0 · Surveys completed by the general public 

0 Surveys completed by panicipating stationary sources and companies/employers 

0 Communication with panicipating stationary sources and companies/employers 

via telephone, fax, e-mail, or in-person interview. 

0 Received gas sales data from oil companies & refineries · 

0 Received transit ridership level data from transit agency 

0 Other (Please specify): -----------------

lOc) Are there other data that you would like to have collected that :rou did not? 

DNo 

0 Yes (Please :,pecify): 

lOd) Was a quantitative analysis of the effectiveness of the program performed?. 

0No 

0 Yes (Please discuss):_· ---------------

lOe) Have any other organizations evaluated the program? 

0No 

0 Yes (Please discuss): ----------------

JI 

li 
ld. 

EP!SOillC C01VfROL PR.OGRA.\1. FACT SHEi:.7 

1 Of) In the space provided please discuss any problems or pitfalls that were encountered during 

· the implementation or evaluation of the program. 

1 Og) In the space provided please discuss what parts of the program have been most successful. 
Additional Questions for Phone Interview 

• Is the program completely voluntary or are there circumstances (such as very bad air quality 

days) where panicipation by cenain groups is mandatory? 

• Is your program modeled after another program? If Yes, which program? 

• Is your program collaborating with another? If Yes, what is the nature of the collaboration? 

• Follow-ups for Question 7k: 

If surveys have been conducted to test the baseline knowledge of the program and the 

effectiveness of the outreach efforts, can we get a copy of the survey and of the results? 

When were the surveys conducted? 

Number of people responding(% responding)? 

• Follow-ups for Question 9f 

If no data is currently being collected are there future plans for doing so? 

• Follow-ups for Question 1 Od: 

If a quantitative analysis of the program was performed, can we get information about the 

methodology used and a copy of the findings?· 

Were emissions reductions calculated (i.e. lbs/day of program operation)? 

Was costs per unit emissions reduced calculated (aMual costs per days of program operation)? 

• Do you think the program has had an impact on air pollution levels? 

13 

AppendaC 

EPISODIC CONTROL PROGRAM PROFILES 

Albuquerque, New Mexico 

Atlanta, Georgia 

Austin, Teus 

Baltimore, Maryland 

Beaumont-Port Arthur, Teus 

Charlotte, North Carolina 

Chicago, Illinois 

Cinciauti, Ohio 

Oeveland, Ohio 

Corpas Christi, Tens 

Dallas-Ft. Worth. Tens 

Deaver, Colondo 

Detroit, Micbipn 

Houston-Galveston, Tens 

Indiana Programs 

Longview, Manhal, Tyler, Tens . 

Milwaukee, Wiicoasin 

Northwest, Wahington 

Olympia, Wulainpoa 

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania · 

Pfloenis. Arizona (CO) 

Plaoeais, Arizona (ozone) 

Pttabarp. Pennsylvania 

Portland, Oregon 

Richmond, Virplia 

Sacnmeato, California 

Saa Antonio, Tens 

Saa Fnncisco. California 

Saa Joaqain Valley, California 

Seattle, Wulainpoa (ozone) 

Seattle, Wulaingtoa (PM1o) 

Spokane, Wulainpoa 

St. Louis, Miisoari 

Toledo, Ohio 

Tulsa, Oklahoma 

Wahington, D.C. 

15 

PROGRAM PROF]LE-r!LBUQl"ERQt:E. ,\M 

EpisodiC Control Program Profile-AJbuquerque, NM 

BASIC INFORMATION 

Program Name: 

Area of Coverage: 

Main Pollutant(s) Targeted: 

Attainment Status (CO/PMI0/03): 

Implementing Agency: 

Stan Date: 

Program Goals (Ranked) 

Winter Pollution Advisory 

Albuquerque, NM 

co 

Attainment- CO (Previous NA) 

Albuquerque APCD 

October 1988 

l. Maintain AQ status 

2. Public EduCation I Health Benefits 

Program required by law? 

Is the program enforceable? 

3. Congestion Management/reduce SOV use, VMT 

Yes (City No Bum Ordinances) 

Yes (Included in SIP) 

Funding and Administration 

1996 Budget: No Specific Budget Funding Source(s): APCD 

# Full-time equivalent staff at the main agency 

# Full-time equivalent staff at other affiliated agencies 

Public Outreach 

Methods used to infonn the public about the program 

• Television advenisements 

• Radio advertisements 

• Newspaper advertisements 

• Billboard advertisements 

• Public education booths at community evmlS · 

• Creation and diueminarion of public education materials 

~ 

6-8 

0 

• Provide information to panicipa1ing employees through their employaa 

• Citation/fines for burning 

Volunteer Tota! 

6-8 

0 

Describe the most effective part of public outreach program: The program tried to establish a 

symbol to display on alert days; however, each TV station ~eveloped its own symbol to display 

during the broadcast during episode days. The program has also developed phone stickers, 

refiigerator magnets, and balloons that are given out with the programs hotline and have been 

distributed to the public via mechanisms such as water bills. The phone line contains information 

about the status of the day and program infonnation; They also do targeted media blitzes during 

different months, offering incentives such as free emiSsion tests to promote the program. . . 

I 
7 '! 

PROGRAM PROFILE-ALBCQC.:ER.QCE .. \M 

Episode Day Actions Recommended by the Program 

• Avoid driving at lunch time (take lunch to school or work) 

• Use alternative modes oftransponation (car/vanpools. transit etc) instead of driving alone 

• Keep vehicle tuned up 

• Change work schedules to avoid the commute 

• Avoid using woodstoves and fireplaces 

• Employees cannot obtain cnuancelparking with valid ccrti1icate (AFB) 

Discuss any unique control measures included in the program: All vehicles driven onto the 

Kirkland Air Force Base must be certified as passing the state I/M test, even if registered outside 

of the state (this is a federal law). The program is a two-phase program with yellow alerts (which 

are like warnings) called when the day next is forecast to be an alert day. A red alert corresponds 

to the mandatory wood burning restrictions .. The yellow alert, which is called by 11 :00, is focused 

on reducing woodbuming activities for that evening and reducing driving activities for the 

morning commute. 

Participation & Incentives 

• 300 Employers 

• General public 

• 10.20 Statiowuy Soum:s 

Incentives to Encourage Participation 

General Public : 

Companies: 

Employees: 

Free Transit, citatiorv'fine (woodbuming) 

Public recognition (through transit dept.) 

All measures listed below are encouraged, 

free or discounted transit 

Free or discounted .lunches 

Flexible work schedule 

Preferential parking for car/vanpools 

Guaranteed emergency ride home for employees who car/vanpooVtransit 

Improvement of area visibility has been a secondary incentive of the program. Pinon wood has 

been traditionally burned in the area; however, this type of wood is very smoky when burning. 

Implementation of the program, with the ban on wood burning, has therefore resulted in much 

visibly cleaner skies with the public can see and has responded favorably to. Notice of violations 

(NO) are issued to the public if the initial warning notice, mailed to the house, is not followed. 

Violations of the wood burning regulations (except for homes with a sole source, low income or· 

medical variance) are considered a misdemeanor and contain potential fee and jail time. A CNG 

bus/trolley shuttle has been operated between two local shopping centers during the Christmas 

shopping season. Demand for the shuttle service has grown every year. 

Forecasting Pollution Episode Days 

Weather forecaster & Pollution: 

Parameters Examined: 

Criteria to setting forecast day: 

NWS, Accuweather, Weather Net I APCD 

Morning SKW Sounding, surtace/upper air pressure & temp 

CO concentrations, day of week, time of year 

nla 

2 
PROGRAM PROFlLE-ALBCQl.:EROLE .. \M v -

Method used to forecast day: 

Accuracy: 

Notification Mechanisms 

EJ A/NGM models, meteorological intuition, empirical tech. 

areater than 90% accuracy, All co episodes for past 8 

years have occurred during forecasted No-bum periods 

• 

• 

• 

Television stations 

Radio stations 

Newspapers 

Method of notification : fax 

Method of notification: fax 

Medrod of notification: fax 

Television stations mention the alert day in the news reports and in the weather report and 

broadcast public service announcement. Radio hosts make announcements, broadcast public 

service announcements, and mention the air quality status in news reports. The public is also 

shown a "No bum" icon during the TV news. The newspapers display the special icon on the 

front page. The Albuquerque APCD has a Winter Pollution Advisory phone system which plays a 

reeorded message concerning the status of an alert day (accessible 24 hours a day). 

Program Evaluation 

Data Collected: Violations, field enforcement 

Other Data Desired: Effectiveness of voluntary no-drive part of program 

Analysis of Data: Reduced number of smoking chimneys 

Emission Estimated: n/a 

Emiss reduction per participant: n/a 

Cost per participant: n/a 

Emission Reduction Ratio: n/a 

Current ambient measurements indicate the carbon monoxide values are typically 3% of the values 

measured previous to program implementation. They have found that the compli~e rate of the 

program, for the mandatory measures, is excellent. In addition. most new developments in the 

area do not include traditional wood fireplaces, gas log stoves are now more common. ·They are 

now beginning to examine transit ridership data and employee participation data. 

Main problems or pitfalls encountered during the implementation of the program: ( 1) Safety of 

field persoMel and staff during enforcement of no-bum events with property owners. While most 

owners are apologetic, some are confrontational. Inspector now notify the violators via the U.S. 

mail since most people currently have knowledge of the program. (2) Assessing the value of the 

program has been difficult since it isn't the only control measure used to reduce CO 

concentrations (e.g. l/M, o~ fuels). · 

Parts of the program that have been the most successful: Public awareness about air quality 

issues and individual contributions has been a great ally. Limited calling on no-bum days only on 

days when necessary has helped to build public confidence in program .. 

3 

l~ 
~o 
PROGRAA/ PROFILE -ATU'vTA. GA 

Episodic Control Program Profile-Atlanta, GA 

BASIC INFORMATION 

Program Name: 

Area of Coverage: 

Main Pollutant(s) Targeted: 

Attainment Status (CO/PMIO/ 03): 

Ozone Advisory Program 

Metro Atlanta, GA 

Ozone 

Serious- 03 

Implementing Agency: GA Department of Natural Resources - Air Protection 

Branch, Atlanta Chamber of Commerce, Georgia Power, 

CDC, National Weather Service, Media 

Start Date: 

Program Goals (Ranked) 

Program required by law? 

Is the program enforceable? 

1994 

1. Public Education 

2. Health Benefits 

3. Congestion Management 

No 

No 

Funding and Administration 

1996 Budget: None Funding Source(s): None 

# Full-time equivalent staff at the main agency 

# Full-time equivalent staff at other affiliated agencies 

Public Outreach 

Methods used to inform the public about the program 

• Television advertisements 

• Internet web site (in dewlopment) 

• Creation and dissemimrion of public education materials 

~ 

0 

0 

• . Provide infonnation to paJticipating employees through their employers 

• Press releases 

Describe the most effective part of public outreach program: n/a 

Episode Day Actions Recommended by the Program 

Volunteer 

1 

8 

Tota! 

1 

8 

• Use alternative modes ofuansportation (car/vanpools. transit. ere.) instead of driving alone 

• Keep vehicle tunedup 

• Combine multiple auto trips throughout the day 

• Work from home (telecommute) 

• Avoid refueling until the evening (i.e .• after 6 p.m.) 

• Keep mel speeds at the speed limit and steady 

~ l 
PROGRAM PROFILE -ATLAi'.ffA. GA 

• Change work schedules to avoid the commute 

• Avoid using gasoline-powered garden equipment (Area Source) 

• Avoid using charcoal lighter fluid (Area Source) 

• Avoid household maintenance activities that produce emissions (Area Source) 

Discuss any unique control measures included in the program: n/a . . 

. Participation & Incentives 

• General PUblic 

• Employers 

Incentives to Encourage Participation 

General Public: None 

Companies: None 

Employees: None 

Forecasting Pollution Episode Days 

Weather forecaster & Pollution: GA EPD and GA Tech 

Parameters Examined: Rain&.11, wind speeds, humidity and temp 

Criteria to setting forecast day: The PSI is used - Code Green-Good (0-80 PSI), 

Code Yellow- Ozone Watch (80-100 PSI), and 

Code Red - Ozone Warning ( 1 oo+ PSI). 

Method used to forecast day: - Seven people contribute to the forecasting: three 

meteorologists and four air quality experts. By 3 o'clock 

each day, each forecaster sends via e-mail a predicted 

forecast for the next day. GA Tech and GA EPD decide on 

a forecast based on the individual predictions. An episode 

alert day is only called for the next day if the current day is a 

watch or warning. Forecasts are based on the Pollutant 

Standard Index. Once a forecast is made, it is faxed out to 

program participants, the media, and the Atlanta Regional 

Commission who notifies the areas 30 largest employers. 

Records are kept on the accuracy of each of the seven 

forecasters. The individual who has thus far maintained the 

best record relies on the National Weather Forecast and 

intuition. 

Accuracy: 

Notification Mechanisms 

• 

• 

• 

• 

Television stations 

Radio stations 

Newspapers 

Employers 

Method of notification: NWS. fax 

Method of notification : NWS 

Method of notification: NWS 

Method of notification: fax 

2 
PROGRA\1 PROFILE - .-l TUNTA. GA 

Program Evaluation 

Data Collected: None 

Other Data Desired: None 

Analysis of Data: n/a 

Emission Estimated: n/a 

Emiss reduction per participant: n/a 

Cost per participant: n/a 

Emission Reduction Ratio: n/a 

Main problems or pitfalls encountered during the implementation of the program: · Developing a 

forecasting method was difficult. Because of this, it would have been helpful to have an approved 

forecasting method to use. They have had difficulty finding other programs with proven 

forecasting methodology. EPA might play a significant role in outlining forecasting methods and 

facilitating contact between episodic control programs. Another difficulty encountered is that the 

media occasionally reports the ozone forecasts incorrectly. They are currently working to assist 

the media in reporting the correct forecast. 

Parts of the program that have been the most successful: The cooperative, volunteer attitudes of 

all involved has been a very positive aspect of the program. They have spent no money in 

implementing the program but have still been successful in generating significant media attention. 

3 

PROGR.. ~\,f PROF!LE-ACST!N. TX 

Episodic Control Program Profile-Austin, TX 

BASIC INFORMATION 

Program Name: 

Area of Coverage: 

Main Pollutant(s) Targeted: 

Attainment Status (CO/PMI0/03): 

Implementing Agency: 

Start Date: 

Program Goals (Ranked) 

Program required by law? 

Is the program enforceable? 

Funding and Administration 

1996 Budget: $100,000 

Clean AIR Force 

Central Texas (Austin, Round Rock, San Marcos) 

03 

Attainment for CO, PMIO, and 03 

Travis County Extension Service, 

Austin Transportation Study 

1993 

1. Public education 

2. To maintain the attainment status of the area 

3. Health Benefits 

No 

No 

Funding Source(s): ISTEA, Austin general fund, in-kind 

contributions 

# Full-time equivalent staff at the main agency 

Paid 

o.s 

2.0 

Volunteer Tot.al 

o.s 

# Full-time equivalent staff at other affiliated agencies 2.0 

Public Outreach 

Methods used to inform the public about the program: 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

Radio advertisements 

Internet web site 

Workshops (for scbooL indusuy, the public) 

Public education booths at community events 

Creation and diuemimrion of public education mareria1s 

Provide information to participating employees duougll their employers 

Descri~e most effective part of public outreach program: n/a 

J 
PROGRAM PROFTLE-AUSTIN. TX 

Episode Day Actions Recommended by the Program 

• Avoid driving at lunch time (rake lunch to school or work) 

• Use alternative modes of uansportation (carlvanpools. transit. etc) instead of driving alone 

• Keep vehicle tunedup 

• Combine multiple auto trips throughout the day 

• Work from home (telecommute) 

• Avoid refueling until the evening (i.e .• after 6 p.m.) 

• Change work schedules to avoid the commute 

• Avoid the used of wood stoves and fireplaces 

• Avoid using gasoline-powered garden equipment (lawnmowers. blowers. etc) 

• Awid using charcoal lighter fluid 

• Avoid household maintenance activities that produce emissions (painting. degreasing. etc) 

• Postpone fleet refueling until evening (companies) 

• Use fleet vehicles to attend lunch/meetings (companies) 

• Use conferencing technologies instead of&ce to &ce meetings (companies) 

• Avoid maintenance activities (Stationary Soun:es) 

• Postpone landscaping activities (Stationary Soun:es) . 

• Switch to cleaner burning fuels (Stationary Sources) 

Discuss any unique control measures inclut:kd in the program: nla 

Participation & Incentives 

• General public 

• l lS Employers/agencies 

• Stationary Sources 

IncentiVes to Encourage Participation 

General Public: Transit discounts, Free transit, Auto repair/tune-up discounts 

Companies: Public recognition 

Employees: Free or discounted transit fates 

Free or discounted lunches 

Flexible work schedules 

Preferential parking for car/vanpools 

Guaranteed emergency ride home for employees who car/vanpooVtransit 

Forecasting Pollution Episode Days 

Weather forecaster & Pollution: 

Parameters Examined: 

Criteria to setting forecast day: 

Method used to forecast day: 

Accuracy: 

NWS. TNR.CC I TNR.CC 

Temp, WS, WD, ozone (all forecast parameters) 

7:00 am temp> 90F, WS < 7knots, 10am-4pm ave, 

WS<7 knots, 60<WD<200 deg, clear skies, ozone>SO ppm 

WS/WD critical parameters, use mete0rological intuition, 

empirical relationships and a statistical model based on 

nested grid model 

State meteorologists> 80 years experience, data is 

maintained on accuracy, some years are better than. others. 

2 
PROGRAA1 PROFILE-Al ·srrN. TX 

Notification Mechanisms 

• Television stations Method of notification: fax 

• Radio stations Method of notification: fax 

• Newspapers Method of notification : fax 

• Participating Stationary Sources Method of notification : fax 

• Employers Method of notification : fax 

• Stationary Sources Method of notification : fax 

Television stations mention the alert day in the news reports and the weather report while 

newspapers set asid space for a special announcements. Radio stations broadcast public service 

announcements and mention it in news stories. 

Program Evaluation 

Data Collected: Transit ridership levels 

Other Data Desired: More transit ridership data (ridership levels on Ozone Action Days), 

carpooUvanpool ridership data· 

Analysis of Dara: No 

Emission Estimated: n/a 

Emiss reduction per participant: n/a 

Cost per participant: n/a 

Emission Reduction Ratio: n/a 

Main problems or pitfalls encountered during the implementation of the program: 

• Lack of funding to develop and implement a program evaluation strategy 

Parts of the program that have been the most successful:. 

• Advance notification of employers of Ozone Action Days popular and well-received-11 S 

agencies/employers currently on the list 

• Regional cooperation of educational/outreach efforts. State agency facilitation of teacher 

training on air quality issues. 

.3 

i1 

Oh-oh, Ozone http:J/earth.tec.or ... atlmay96/c!one.htn 

1 nf 2 

May 1996 

Oh-oh, Ozone: 

Why ozone is sometimes good, sometimes bad 

by Nancy Lockhoff 

Austin Clean Air Force 

Ozone is a molecule having a split personality. In the upper stratosphere we have the good 

ozone that protects us from the sun's harmful ultraviolet rays. In the lower troposphere at 

grolllld level, ozone, the main component of smog, is a toxic gas that aggravates lung 

problems. It can make normal breathing more difficult and can contribute to the premature 

death of people with heart and lung disease. Symptoms can be much worse for older 

people, babies, asthmatics or anyone who doesn't have normal resistance to bacteria and 

viruses. Scientific studies are also showing that air pollution can have long-term effects on 

lung capacity and even the development of lung disease itself. Our lungs defend us against 

air pollution, but air pollution places an additional stress on the body's defenses making us 

more susceptible. to disease. · 

The Cleari AIR Force, a coalition of public and private entities committed to improving air 

quality, encourages individuals to take action to help reduce air pollutants anci thus keep 

ground level ozone at healthy levels. One simple rule of thumb is to reduce the use of any 

gasoline burning engine. That means driving less and using gasoline powered equipment 

. like lawnmowers, jet skis, power boats, etc. less. · 

Exceeding the federal standard of 120 parts of ozone per billion, four days within a three 

year period could result in nonattainment status and economic sanctions. The 120 ppb 

guideline is considered unhealthy by the federal government, but several studies cited by 

the American Lung Association also show health problems at 80 ppb, and EPA is currently 

studying the standard. 

Ozone is formed when volatile organic compounds (VOC's) and nitrogen oxide emissions 

react in sunlight Temperatures in the 90's, no clouds in the sky, and not a breath of wind 

are conditions favorable to ozone formation. 

One of the major man-controlled culprits of ozone is transportation., Since the early 70's 

emissions from new vehicles have been going down, but the big problem is that we are 

putting more and more vehicles on our roadways, and the overload is beginning to take its 

toll. This coupled with the fact that older cars g~nerally emit m~re pollutants is offsetting 

g~ 

09/17196 10:15:( 
Oh-oh, Ozone http://earth.tec.or .•. at1may96/ozone.htrr 

qo 

technological gains. The new cars of today produce 60-80 percent less pollution than a car 

of the 60's. 

Mass transit is definitely one solution as is carpooling, biking, walking, telecommuting. 

Living close to work should be a major consideration. Purchasing vehicles that get better 

gas mileage or that run on cleaner fuels like compressed natural gas is also part of the 

solution. Over a car's life a car that gets 27 .S mpg will emit 37. 71 tons of C02 whereas a 

car that gets only 18 mpg will emit 57.75 tons. 

Combine errands. More than half of auto emissions come from just starting up the car 

therefore bicycling or walking short distances can make a major contribution toward 

cleaner air. The emissions from one poorly maintained vehicle equals the emissions from 

25 properly functioning maintained vehicles so that too can make a major contribution. 

The same goes for lawnmower and boat motors. · 

. 'Topping off the gas tank when you go past the first click should be a thing of the past. 

Those excess vapors contribute to air pollution. 

Dirty air is very expensive in terms of health costs and sick days from work and thus lost 

productivity. The American Lung Association estimates that the health costs associated 

with outdoor air pollution alone are 40 to SO billion a year. So even the people who are not 

presently experiencing lung problems pay the price. "Ifwe can't breathe, nothing else 

matters." 

Table a<Ccna I Mttigp t tj,,bh I Advjmry Daw I OIHh. 0pm I Sprosls• I lkHsl I Mllll I &slin 

GrecnBeat rec:ommcads Netrne 1.1. or a 

compatible browser. 

Send commenu to 

greenbeat@eanh.tec,OPl 

0 
Ozone Action Days http :JI earth. tee .or ... may96/advisory .htrr 

May 1996 

Ozone Action· Days 

by Elizabeth Carmack 

Texas Natural Resources Conservation Commission 

Ozone is the most prevalent air pollution problem in Texas and across the 

\' nation. The Ozone Action Days Program supports communities that encourage 

citizens to voluntarily take steps to reduce this air pollutant. 

Through the program, meteorologists at the Texas Natural Resource 

~..u-,-- Conservation Commission (TNRCC) forecast when conditions will be right to 

produce high ozone concentrations in seven metropolitan areas. Forecasts are 

issued by 2 p.m. the day before expected high levels. Community coalitions incorporate 

this information into local campaigns that urge the public, businesses and industry to 

reduce ozone pollution. · 

The ozone season in Texas is from April through October. During the 1996 season, 

· forecasts are being issued for Austin, Beaumont-Port Arthur. Corpus Christi. Dallas-Fort 

Worth. Houston-Galveston-Brazoria. and San Antonio . (TNRCC also keeps online data 

for El Paso but does not make forecasts for the area at this ti me.) 

To forecast an Ozone Action Day, TNRCC staff members compare an area's weather 

forecast for the next day to area weather conditions found during previous high ozone 

days. They rely on the National Weather Service's forecast of the next day's wind 

direction, wind speed, temperature, cloud cover, and probability of precipitation. They also 

consider whether the area's current ozone level is high, because it can indicate what the 

next day's concentration will be. · 

Ozone is formed when nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compounds combine in 

sunlight. Sources of these pollutants include fuel-burning engines in cars and lawn mowers, 

as well as some industry and power plants. Hot, sunny summer days with little wind are 

perfect for ozone formation. 

At the request of some communities, the TNRCC will re-evaluate the ozone and weather 

conditions .on the morning of an Ozone Action Day, and cancel the forecast if necessary. 

If you live in one of the participating communities and want to check on Ozone Action 

Day forecasts, call the TNRCC's toll free enviroxμnental hotline at 1-800-64TEXAS. It is 

91 

1 of 2 09/17196 10:13:1 
Ozone Action Da~ http://earth.tec.or .. .mav96/advisory.hu 

~a.. 

updated each morning and afternoon. Forecast information and ozone concentrations 

measured by the TNRCC in Texas co.!Ilillunities can be found on the Internet. This 

information is updated daily. 

The 1NRCC provides web sites with general information about air quality in Texas. 

Table g(Cgntm I pq!hnjm A ffgltb I A4yipy Pm I 01H1r. Opt I sgrpqp 1 ll!UlsS I .Mm I &5biD 

GreenBeat recommend$ Netscape 1.1. or a 

compatible browser. 

Send commenis to 

menbelt@eartb.tec.org 

-~ T.E.C. AW 
PROGP.AJ,,f PROFILE-BALTIMORE .. \.fD-W ASHIXGTO.V. DC 

Episodic Control Program Profile-Baltimore, MD 

BASIC INFORMATION 

Program Name: ENDZONE - Partners to End Ground Level Ozone 

Ozone Action Days 

Area of Coverage: Baltimore-Washington, DC 

Main Pollutant(s) Targeted: Ozone 

Attainment Status (CO/ PMIO I 03):Baltimore-Severe Nonattainment for ozone, 

DC - Serious Nonattainment for ozone 

Implementing Agency: MD Department of the Environment (MOE) , Baltimore 

Metropolitan Council (BMC), Washington Council of 

Governments (COG) 

Start Date: Spring 1994 (forecasting), Fall 1995 (Ozone Action Days) 

Program Goals (Ranked) 1. Public Education 

2. Health Benefits 

3. To Attain Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) 

Other: Conformity 

Program required by law? 

plan 

Yes (included qi the contingency plan for the post-96 ROP 

for Baltimore) 

Is the program enforceable? No. 

Funding and Administration 

1996 Budget: $1,500,000 from MD (for D.C. as well) 

$15,000 from Amoco 

Funding SourcC{s): Maryland 

Department of Transportation, 

Amoco Foundation 

flid Volunteer 

# Full-time equivalent staff at the main agency 

#Full-time equivalent staff at other affiliated agencies 

4(MDE) 

4 (COG, BMC, UMD) 

They are currendy in the process of defining the roles of the participating agencies. 

Public Outreach 

Methods used to inform the public about the program 

• 

• 

• 

• 

Workshops (for schools. industry, public) 

Internet web site (www.meto.umd.edu/-ryan/ozone_fcsthtml or 

WWW .mde.state.md.us/arma/ Airqulty/a.ilqual.html) 

Public education booths at community events 

Creation and dissemination of public education materials 

Provide information to participating employees through their employers 

1 

Tu!i! 

4 

4 
PRO&RAM PROFILE-BALTIMORE .. 'vfD-W ASH!NGTON. DC 

• TV Public Service Announcements 

• Ozone map shown during TV weather repon 

Describe the most effective part of public outreach program: NI A 

Episode Day Actions Recommended by the Program 

• Avoid driving at lunch time (take lunch to school or work) 

• Use alternative modes of transpOnation (cartvanpools. transit. etc) instead of driving alone 

• Keep vehicle tunedup 

• Combine multiple auto trips throughout the day 

• Work from home (telecommute) 

• Avoid refueling until the evening (i.e., after 6 p.m.) 

• Avoid excessive idling 

• Avoid u5ing gasoline-powered garden equipment (Area Source) 

• Avoid using cbaR:oal lighter tluid (Area Source) 

• Avoid household maintenance activities that produce emissions (Area Source) 

• Defer use ofhousehoJd consumer products that release fumes (Area Source) 

• Change work schedule to avoid the commute (Employees) 

• Postpane fleet refueling until evening (Companies) 

• Use conferencing technologies instead of face to face meetings (Companies) 

• Reduce high-emitting production activities (StationaJy Sc>lm:es) 

• Avoid maintenance activities (StatioDIJ)' Sources) 

• Postpone landscaping activities (Stationary Sources) 

• Act as a core leadership group by setting an example for citizens (Stationary Sources) 

Discuss a79' unique control measures included in the program: NI A 

Participation & Incentives 

• 100-150 organizations and businesses participate 

• As a result. at least 50,000 people have heard of omne action days 

• Stationary Sources 

Incentives to Encourage Participation 

General Public: Free Transit (Montgomery county) 

Companies: Public Recognition and the prospect of avoiding future regulations 

Employees: Flexible work schedules 

Preferential parking for car/vanpooJs 

Guaranteed emergency ride home for employees who car/vanpooVtransit 

Some employers give out stickers, t-shirts, and totebags 

Forecasting Pollution Episode Days 

Weather forecaster & Pollution: 

Parameters Examined: 

Criteria to setting forecast day: 

University of Maryland, V ADEQ, MDDEQ 

Forecast algorithms based on historical climatology and 

ozone monitoring site data. The algorithms are augmented 

by real time data and forecaster expertise 

A coding systein is used to forecast ozone levels: Code 

2 
Method used to forecast day: 

Accuracy: 

Notification Mechanisms 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

Television stations 

Radio stations 

Newspapers, 

Employers 

Stationary Sources 

Gas stations 

PROGRAM PROFTLE-BALT!MORE. JfD-WASHlNGTON. DC 

Green (good air quality) 0-62 ppb, Code Yellow (moderate 

air quality) 63-109 ppb, Code Orange (approaching 

unhealthful air quality) 110-124 ppb, and Code Red 

(unhealthful air quality) 125 ppb or greater. MDE reports 

air quality using the Pollutant Standard Index (PSI) 

showing pollution concentrations as a number on a 

scale ofO to lOo+. The PSI is posted under 'Today's 

Weather' in the Baltimore Sun. The conversion of PSI to 

the color coded forecast is as follows: Code Green - O to 

SO PSI, Code Yellow - S 1 to 88 PSI, Code Orange - 89 to 

99 PSI, Code Red - 1 Oo+ PSI. An Ozone Alert is called if 

there is a Code Red or Code Yellow reading in both 

Baltimore and D.C. Ozone concentrations are reported in 

ppb on the ozone map used to illustrate ozone levels 

throughout the Maryland area. Forecasts, however, are 

shown ~ing the PSI. 

Once the University of Maryland forecast is received, a 

decision is made concerning which code to use. Partners 

and the media are then notified of the decision and are 

encouraged to take appropriate actions. 

Forecaster sends out the correct message 80-90% of the 

time 

Method of notification: fax. phone. web site 

Method of notification: fax. phone. web site 

Method of notification : fax. phone. web site 

Method of notification: fax. web site 

Method of notificalion: fax. web site 

Method of notification: Amoco and Crown.Central Petroleum notify their gas 

stations 

Television stations mention the alert day in the news report and the weather report. A special 

ozone map has been developed to show varying levels of ozone in different parts of the episode 

area. Newspapers report air quality with the Pollutant Standard Index, mention it in articles, and 

allot space for announcements. Radio hosts make announcements and mention the action day in 

the news report. Amoco gas stations fly flags and fliers and posters are given to all gas stations to 

hand out. 

Program Evaluation 

Data Collected: Three surveys 

Other Data Desired: N/ A 

Analysis of Data: Some 

Emission Estimated: Preliminary analysis is being conducted 

Emiss reduction per participant: N/ A 

3 

95 
PROGRAM PROFILE--BALTIMORE .. \ID-WASHING TON. DC 

Cost per participant: N/ A 

Emission Reduction Ratio: NI A 

Prior to beginning the program, three surveys were conducted by the Gallup Organization to 

gather information on public perceptions regarding air quality. Survey one, the "General 

Awareness" survey, was designed to gain an understanding of the level of public education and 

commitment to air quality issues. The second survey, "Identifying Early Adopters" attempted to 

ascertain the percentage of individuals who are knowledgeable of the air quality problems in the 

Baltimore area and who are willing to take action on an individual basis. The third survey dealt 

with area businesses and their level of awareness of air quality issues. 

Main problems or pitfalls encountered during the implementation of the program: 

The Endzone Steering Committee. chaired by members of the private sector, supposedly had 

authority to spend money but in reality, did not. This caused considerable delays in producing 

much needed educational materials. Various roles of agencies were never clearly defined. The 

challenge was to build a program implemented by agencies with a history of strained relations. 

They are currently working to insure that next summer is more successful. . . 

MDE had been working on a voluntary ozone reduction program (project Blue Skies) since the 

summer of 1995. Blue Skies had a significant number of partners (20-30) when MDE fused the 

program with ENDZONE to create a regional program (Ozone Action Days). Because MDE is a 

regulatory agency, it had a longstanding relationship with many of the businesses who participated 

and, therefore, had a strong baseofpartn~ many ofwhom submitted Ozone.Action Day plans. 

Parts of the program that have been the most successful: 

The Ozone Action Day program has been deemed a success this year, despite the many 

bureaucratic hurdles they had to address. Collaboration with participants has been the most · 

successful aspect of the program. A very positive kickoff event included Governor Glendening, 

Administrator Browner, Senator Sarbanes, Congressman Cardin, and a very large turnout from 

partners. A great deal of success has been achieved by meeting with current and potential 

partners on an individual basis, often more than once. Attempts to reciuit new partners through 

mass mailings have not been very successful.. They have found that recruiting partners requires 

personal contact and guidance from the implementing agencies. 

4 
Alt Quailty .=orecut For August 13, 1996 'i 1 

httl):i/www.mwcog.or ••• ogJdeoJairquaU 

1of2 

Forecast Valid Through Sunset, Tuesday, August 13, 1996 

Air Quality Forecast 

METROPOUTAN WASHINGTON COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS 

777 North Capitol Street, N.E., Suite 300,Washinqton, o.c. 20002 

For. Immediate Release Contacts: Dana Grabiner (202) 962-336~ 

The Air Quality On Monday, August 12 Was good 

"Code Green" Ozone Forecast for Tuesday, August 13, 1996 

Good Air Quality Expected · 

El------

4:30 p.m., Washington, D.C.-The Council ofGovemments(COG) has issued a "Code Greenn ozone 

forecast indicating that the air quality is expected to be good on "August 13 in the Washington 

metropolitan region. The air quality on August 12 was good with an Air Quality Index (AQI) of37 for 

ground-level ozone. 

The Washington region's worst air quality problem is ozone, an odorless, colorless gas that poses health 

problems at ground level. On a typical summer day, about 60 to 70 percent of the pollutants that cause 

ozone are created from cars, lawnmowers, other garden equipment, and common household products. 

For these reasons, COG recommends that residents make the extra eft"on to:. 

o Carpool or use transit when possible. 

O Keep cars and boats tuned up. 

o Use environmentally safe paints and cleaning products. 

Above certain concentrations, ground-level ozone can cause lungdamage, eye irritation, breathing 

difficulties, coughing and chestpain. Children, the elderly, healthy individuals working or exercising out 

doors, and those with respiratory and hean ailments are panicularly affected when ozone levels are high. 

COG provides daily air quality forecasts at approximately 4:45 p.m. during the summer ozone season. If 

the forecast changes, an update will be issued by 10:30 a.m. the following day. 

08/13/96 08:2' 
9'1> 

Air Quality Forecast For August 13, 1996 httl) :I Iv ww .mwcog. or ••• og/ dep/ airqual .r 

For Related University of Maryland Weather and Air Quality Forecast, Click here 

For Maryland Air Quality Information, Click here 

For South Coast Air Quality Management District Homepage, Click here 

Links To Regional Weather Channels 

The Weather Chaooei 

WRC·TY Channel 4 Washington 

Return To MWCOG Homepage 
9'! 

Today's Air Quality htto :.//www .mde .stat ... rqulty/airqual .ht 

MARYLAND'S CURRENT AIR QUALITY.IS 

-~Jii!~l . ..... _., 

INDICATING GOOD AIR QUALITY! 

MARYLAND'S AIR QUALITY FORECAST 

r»»=<~~~,, ... ,,,.,},,,,.,*T'"S~:~~~r~s•n"~~r; 

·.·~.: .. ~:.~ •till= ~~f.J~l' •t~l= ~~J!J~l' i 

Today's Forecast ".Q;I; ~ ~ ~ 

:~~j ..... .. ..• ll T . ' F t ITO BE UPDATED TO BE UPDAT.ED :::: omorrow s orecas 

:::: ail 4:30 o.m. ail 4:30 o.m. 

:·· 

•Maryland's Air Quality Forecast is updated at 10:30 Lm. and 4:30 p.m. 

Look here for the Ozone Forecast Technical Discussion 

SCl'OU dowft to see what yoa can do to help dean tM air! 

The Maryland Department of the Environment uses a color-coded scheme to forecast ground-level ozone 

levels in the Baltimore and Washington metropolitan areas. The color scheme used is listed below. 

CODE GREEN: good air quality~zone levels to be less tlian 61 pans-per billion (ppb) 
tOO 

Today's Air QuaJitv http://www.mde .stnt •.. rqutty/ airquat .htr 

CODE YELLOW: moderate air quality-ozone le\-els to be between 61 and 110 ppb 

CODE ORANGE: approaching unhealthy -ozone levels to be between 111 and 124 ppb 

'CODE RED: unhealth~· .Ur quality-ozone levels to be equal to or greater than 125 ppb 

Throughout the ozone smog season (May through September) and 

when air quality is CODE GREEN, residents are urged to: 

o Carpool. use transit, bike or walk when possible. 

D Keep cars and boats tuned-up. 

o Use environmentally safe paints and cleaning products. 

When air quality is moderate and a CODE YELLOW is issued., 

residents are urged to: 

o Consolidate trips and errands. 

D Limit vehicle idling when possible. 

D Conserve electricity and set air conditioners to 78 degrees Fahrenheit. 

When air quality approaches or is forecasted for unhealthful ozone 

levels and a CODE ORANGE is issued. residents should: 

D Refuel cars after dusk to limit daytime pollution releases. 

D Avoid mowing lawns with gasoline-powered mowers. 

D Share a ride or drive only the best maintained vehicle. 

When air quality reaches or is forecasted for unhealthful ozone. 

levels and a CODE RED ~ issued., ~idents are strongly urged to: 

D Limit driving and. when possibJ~ combine errands. 

o Use area bus and rail lines. or share a ride to work. 

D Avoid mowing lawns with gasoline-powered mowers; 

D Refuel cars after dusk. 

Also. the Maryland Department of the EnViromnent reports air quality using the Pollutant Standard Index 

(PSI). The PSI converts measured pollution concentrations to a number on a scale ofO to 500. Today's 

Pollution Standard Index can be found under Today's Weather in the Baltimore Sun and the Washington 

Post, or by calling the Air Quality Hotline at (410) 631-3247. A conversion of PSI to the Color Coded 

Forecast is found below. · 

Pollutant Standard lndes 
- .____ .. 

Today's Air Quatity '0 t http :J /www .mde .stat ... rquhy/airqu* .hm 

., ~' A 

Pollutant Standard lodes 

I 

Pollutan~ 

Standard Corresponding 

lodes Color Coded Description 

Reading Forecast 

(PSn 

0-50 Code Green : Good Air Quality 

51-88 Code Yellow Moderr ~e Air Quality 

89-99 Code Orange Approaching Unhealthful Levels 

IOo+ Code Red Unhealthful Air Quality 

For more air quali'ty information, call MDE's Air Quality 

Hotline at (410) 631-3247 

For additional air quality information. check out: 

• the Metrom>litan WashinstOn Council of Government's Air Qualitv Page 

tJ1l!l!1 The Universjty of Maiyland's Ozone F<!recasting Page 

Ground-level ozone pollution is a serious problem in urban areas such as the Baltimore and Washington 

regions. To find out more infonnation on ground-level ozone visit the Ozone Information Page . 

n0/1 '2 IOI:! f'I0.'21 .c 
\Ci 

Today's Air Quatity http://www.mde.stat ..• rqujty/airquat.h 

Todav's Air Oualitv I ARMA Programs I Vehicle Emissions Inspection Program 

Ozone lnformation Page I ARMA Home Pae I MDE Home Page 

For comments or more information ~ _ 

Ra11dy Mosier or Roh Sariscalc at mdearma(ii.!charm.net 
MARYLAND OZONE FORECAST .03 

http:J lwww .meto .umd ... van/ozone_ fC$t.htm 

inf 2 

. ·························•············································•·····•····•························· . .. .. . .. . .. . .. . . . . . . .. .. .. .. . .. .. . . .. .. . .. .. .. . .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. . .. . .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. . .. .. .. .. ... .. . .. . .. .. . .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. ................ . . . ... 

-: . ... 

.. . 

:: : -: . 

... 

-: . .. . 

-: . ... 

... 

;: : 

: : ... 

-: . 

OZONE FORECAST 

OPERATIONS 

.CENTER 

DEPARTMENT of 

METEOROLOGY 

·~ ··~· -~~~~~-~~~ 

r····iOWiEVElOiON~iFOREiSi.ST ..... I 

~ . BALTIMORE II w ASHINGTON I 

11 GOOD GOOD I 

Forecast Issued: August 13, 1996,1030 EDT 

Forecast Valid: August 13, 1996 

====FORECAST DETAILS BELOW==== 

•••••••••• FOR BALTIMORE, MARYLAND ••••••••••• 

Consensus Forecast (UM/MDE): 44 ppbv 

University of Maryland Forecast: 40 ppbv 

1996 Regression Forecast: 42 ppbv 

1995 Regression Forecast: 49 ppbv 

••••••••••••• FOR WASHINGTON, DC ••••••••••••• 

Consensus Forecast (UM/MOE): 44 ppbv 

University of Maryland Forecast: 40 ppbv 

1996 Regression Forecast: 33 ppbv 

199? Regression Forecast: 26 ppbv 

FORECAST DISCUSSION: 

Forecast discussion: 

. 08113/96 08:33:4 j 
10~ MARYLAND OZONE FORECAST http://www.meto.umd ... yan/ozone_fcst.ltt 

The o:one forecast for Tuesday is unchanged from the previous day. /11 addition to the cool 

temperatures al'ld maritime flow over: the region, precipition is forecasted for most of the day Tuesday. 

O:one will remain in the good range (Code Green) for the next 2.J hours. 

lhe surface low which has been bringing ail the rain to the area is now in Sot11hern Virginia as of I 2Z 

this morning. The rain will begin to tapper off at the end of the day. There is 110 reason at this time to 

change the forecast from yesterday afternoon. O:one will remain in the good range today. 

Piety 

1111 • • • • • • • • •• * • HELPFUL WWW SITES •••••• * •••• •• 

UM Meteorology Weather Page: .METO 

Additional Weather Forecast and Observation Links Rnn , 

OZONE FORECAST OPERATIONS CENTER: 

Depanment of Meteorology 

University of Maryland College Parle 

Comments: ryan@11iam.umd.edu 
PROGR.AM PROFILE - BEAUMONT/PORT ARTHUR. TX 

Episodic Control Program Profile - Beaumont/Port Arthur, TX 

BASIC INFORMATION 

Program Name: Oz.one Action Days . 

Area of Coverage: Beaumont, Port Arthur, Orange, TX 

Main PoUutant(s) Targeted: Oz.one 

Attainment Status (CO I PM10 I 0 3): CO & PM· attainment; 03 - Mod. nonattainment 

Implementing Agency: South East Texas Regional Planning Commission 

Start Date: 1996 

Program Goals (Ranked) l. Public education 

2. To attain the air quality standards 

Program required by law? 

Is the program enforceable? 

3. Economic benefits of becoming attainment 

No 

No 

Funding and Administration 

1996 Budget: $40,000 Funding Source(s): CMAQ 

# Full-time equivalent staff at the main agency 

# Full-time equivalent staff at other affiliated agenciu 

Public Outreach 

Methods used to inform the public about the program 

Television advertisements 

Public edw:ati~ booths at community events 

Creation and dissemination of public educ81:ion materials . 

Eaid 

1 

2 

• 

• 

• 

• Provide information to participating employees tbrougb their employers 

Describe most effective part of public outreach program: 

Episode Day Actions Recommended by tbe Program 

Volunteer ImaJ. 

1 

2 

• 

• 

• 

• 

A void driving at lunch time (take lunch to school or woric) . 

Use alternative modes of transportation (car/vanpools, transit, etc) instead of driving alone 

• 

• 

• 

Keep vehicle runed-up 

Combine multiple auto trips throughout the day 

A void refueling until the evening (i.e .. after 6 p.m.) 

Keep travel speeds at the speed limit and steady 

Change work schedules to avoid the commute 

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PROGRAM PROFILE - BEAUMONT/PORT ARTHUR. TX 

• Avoid using gasoline-powered garden equipment (lawnmowers. blowers, etc) 

• A void using charcoal lighter fluid 

• A void household maintenance activities that produce emissions (painting, degreasing, etc) 

• Postpone fleet refueling until evening (companies) 

• Use fleet vehicles to attend lunch/meetings (companies) 

• Use conferencing technologies instead of face to face meetings 

• Reduce high-emitting production activities (Stationary Sourtes) 

• A void maintenance activities (Stationary Sources) 

• Postpone landscaping activities (Stationary Sources) 

Discuss any unique control measures included in the program: 

• Conserve energy • rum off lights and appliances when not in use 

Participation & Incentives 

• S Employers (1 private company and 4 local government agencies) 

. • Genera! public 

• I 7 Stationary Sourtes 

Incentives to Encourage ParticipaJion 

General Public : None 

Companies: Public recognition 

Employees: Flexible work schedules 

Preferential parking for car/vanpools 

Free gasoline for carpool participants 

Forecasting Pollution Episode Days 

Weather forecaster & Pollution: 

Parameters Examined: 

Criteria to setting forecast day: 

Method used to forecast day: 

Accuracy: 

Notification Mechanisms 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

Television stations 

Newspapers 

Participating Stationary Sources 

Employers 

Stationary Sources 

TX Natural Resource Conservation Commission (TNRCC) 

Temp, WS, WD, ozone (all forecast parameters) 

7:00 am temp> 90F, WS < 7kno~ 10am-4pm ave, 

WS<7 kno~ 60<WD<200 deg, clear skies. ozonc>SO ppm 

WS/WD critical parameters, use met. intuition, empirical 

relationships and a statistical model based on nested grid 

model 

State meteorologists> 80 years experience, data is 

maintained on accuracy, some years are better than others. 

Method of notijicalion : fax 

Method of notification : fax 

Method of notijicaJion : fax 

Method of notification: fax 

Method of notification : fax 

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PROGRAM f WF!LE - BEA VMONTIPORT ARTHUR. TX 

Television stations mention the alert day in.~e weather report :vhile newspapers allocate space 

on the weather page for an announcement. 

Program Evaluation 

Data Collected: None 

Other Data Desired: Yes, a baseline survey would be useful 

Analysis of Data: n/a 

Emission Estimated:. n/a 

Emiss reduction per participant: n/a 

Cost per participant: n/a 

Emission Reduction Ratio: n/a 

Main problems or pitfalls encountered during the implementation of the program: 

Have not encountered any problems. 

Parts of the program that have been the most successful: 

We received exceptional cooperation and participation from the 3 television stations and 

newspapers. Each television station covered the kickoff ceremony at length and provided 

follow-up footage about air quality issues. The newspapers run the Omne Action Day logo on 

the weather page on each Ozone Action Day to advise the public. 

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PROGRAM PF 'JFILE -CHARLOTTE. SC 

Episodic Control Program Profile-Charlotte, NC 

BASIC INFORMATION 

Program Name: 

Area of Coverage: 

Main PoUutant(s) Targeted: 

Attainment Status (CO/PMI0/03): 

Implementing Agency: 

Start Date: 

Program Goals (Ranked) 

Ozone Awareness 

Charlotte, NC 

Ozone 

Maintenance for CO and Ozone 

NC Division of Air Quality 

June 26, 1996 

l. Public Education 

2. Economic Benefits to the Area of Staying in 

Attainment 

Program required by law? 

Is the program enforceable? 

Funding and Administration 

3. Health Benefits 

No 

No 

1996 Budget: $17, 000 Funding Source(s): General funding, Duke Power, Chamber of 

Commerce, Piedmont Natural Gas 

# Full-time equivalent staff at the main agency 

# Full-time equivalent staff at other affiliated agencies 

Public Outreach 

Methods used to infonn the public about the. program 

• Internet web site (in deYelopmeot) 

• Creation and dissemination of public education materials 

• Media package 

• Media brunch 

Paid 

112 

112 

Volunteer 

0 

0 

Total 

112 

1/2 

Describe the most effective part of the public outreach program: While still in the fledgling 

stage, the program has generated a significant amount of media interest. Participation was high at 

an "ozone awareness brunch" from which several media stories were generated. Businesses such 

as Duke Power have been particularly receptive and have developed suggestions as to how to 

improve the program. 

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PROGRAM PROFILE -CHARLOITE . . VC 

Episode Day Actions Recommended by the Program 

• Use alternative modes oftransponation (car/vanpools, transit, etc.) instead of driving alone 

• Work from home (telecommute) 

• Keep travel speeds at the speed limit and steady 

• Change work schedules to avoid the commute 

• Tum off the car if idling for more than 30 seconds 

Discuss any unique control measures included in the program: The suggestions listed above are 

made for any day, not just episode days. The Charlotte program has not yet implemented 

episodic control measures but plans to in the future. The current program is based on educating 

the public about general measures which individuals can take to lower air pollution levels. 

Participation & Incentives 

• General Public 

!ncentiyes to Encourage Participation 

General Public: None 

Companies: None 

Employees: None 

Forecasting Pollution Episode Days 

Weather forecaster & Pollution: 

Parameters Examined: 

Criteria to setting forecast episode day: 

Meth<?d used to forecast episode day: 

Accuracy: 

Notification Mechanisms 

Forecasting is not yet being conducted 

n/a 

n/a 

n/a 

n/a 

Since the program is not yet an episodic program, no notification mechanisms have been 

developed. 

Program Evaluation 

Data Collected: 

Other Data Desired: 

Analysis of Data: 

Emission Estimated: 

Emission reduction per participant: 

Cost per participant: 

Emission Reduction Ratio: . 

n/a 

n/a 

n/a 

n/a 

n/a 

n/a 

n/a 

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PROGRAM PROFILE -CHAR :om .. vc 

Main problems or pitfalls encountered during the implementation of the pr9gram: Beca·1se of a 

late start, the program was limited in scope. In addition, they do not have the ability to gauge the 

increase in awareness among the general public. · 

Parts of the program that have been the most successful: Media attention h~ been significant and 

is largely attributed to an ozone awareness brunch and media packages which were given out. 

Duke Power and Piedmont Natural Gas assisted in financing the brunch and in the creation and 

dissemination of educational materials. Both companies have also provided valuable input 

concerning the development of the program. 

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PROGRAM PROF!LE-ClNClNNATl OH 

• Provide infonnation to participating employees through their employers 

• Workshops (for schools, industry, public) 

Describe the most effective part of public outreach program: They go to all area special events 

(wearing identifying T shirts to give credibility to the volunteers) and do a lot of advertising. 

They have tried to distinguish their public service announcements using techniques such as 

wrapped up the tapes in cloud paper and labeling "open up for clean air". A lot of their youth 

education information came from the state of Wisconsin where youth environmental education is 

mandatory. 

Episode Day Actions Recommended by the Program 

• A void driving at lunch time (take lunch to school or work) 

• Use alternative modes of transportation (c:ar/vanpools, transit, etc) instead of driving alone 

• Keep vehicle tuned-up 

• Combine multiple auto trips throughout the day 

• Work from home (telecommute) 

• Change work schedules to avoid the commute 

• Avoid using gasoline-powered garden equipment (lawnmowers. blowers. etc) 

• A void household maintenance activities that produce emissions 

• Postpone fleet refueling-until the evening (i.e. after 6 pm) 

• Avoid maintenance activities such as painting, degreasing, tank cleaning (Stationary Sources) 

• Postpone landscaping activities such as lawn mowing (Stationary Sources) 

• Switch to cleaner burning fuels (Stationary Sources) 

Discuss any unique control measures included in the program: Parallel programs operated in the 

area include: (l).METRO: A fare reduction program (funded through CMAQ for $700K/year) 

They noticed that ridership rates were much higher when they continued the fare reduction 

throughout the entire summer (+18%) (not just during episodic days) and that ridership kept up 

into the fall. Fare reduction program was down to 0.25 on smog days when the program was first 

operated. Now the reduced fare is 0.50 o~ all days of the season. (normal fares could be as much 

as $1.10 (2) CINERGY pays up to $60 per employee (per month) for commute costs associated 

with transit or vanpool fees and takes advantage of the IRS tax incentive. They have challenged 

other companies to do the same. In addition to stressing travel reductions for the employees, 

they've asked business participants to reschedule fleet refueling and outdoor lawn maintenance 

Participation & Incentives 

• 900 Employen 

• General public 

• Stationary Sources 

Incentives to Encourage Participation 

General Public : 

Companies: 

Employees: 

Reduced Transit 

No incentives 

Company products for ridesharing (county park passes) 

Free or discounted transit 

Free or discounted lunches 

Flexible work schedule 

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PROGRAM PROF!LE-CINCINNAT!. OH 

Preferential parking.for car/vanpools 

Guaranteed emergency ride home for employees who ~/vanpool/transit 

Health benefits is the most appealing "hook" for the public to participate 

Forecasting Pollution Episode Days 

Weather forecaster & Pollution: 

Parameters Examined: 

Local TV meteorologists I Hamilton Co. Dept. Env. Serv 

n/a 

Criteria to setting forecast day: n/a 

Method used to forecast day: n/a 

Accuracy: n/a 

Notification Mechanisms 

• Television stations Method of notification : fax. followed by phone 

• Radio stations Method of notification: fax. followed by phone 

• Newspapers Method of notification : fax. followed by phone 

• Stationary Sources Method of notification : fax 

• Employers Method of notif'1eation : fax 

• Local Governments Method of notification : fax 

They have 900 local businesses participating in the program. They use a fax tree service out of 

San Francisco who has the ability to simultaneously fax out to all 900 at the same time. 

Television stations mention the alert day in the news reports and in the weather reports. Radio 

hosts also mention the air quality status in news reports and make special announcements. 

Newspapers include alert status information with the PSI and mention the status in articles. The 

program believes that while the media relations aspect is intensive, it is clearly worthwhile. 

Progi:am Evaluation 

Data Collected: Surveys, Transit ridership levels, employee participation rates, 

stationary source participation data 

Other Data Desired: None 

Analysis of Data: Yes 

Emission Estimated: n/a 

Emiss reduction' per participant: Dia 

Cost per participant: n/a 

Emission Reduction Ratio: n/a 

They have completed surveys (last year) to estimate effectiveness of the program. Last year's 

spring survey indicated that -17% knew about the program, in the fall, that number had increased 

to 65%. 

Main problems or pitfalls encounlered during the implementation of the program: Spreading the 

workload evenly among coalition members. The most difficult task bas been identifying 

appropriate business.contacts and serving them. 

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PROGRAM PROF!LE-CINCINNATl OH 

Parts of the program that have been the most successful: No particular item has been more 

successful than anything else. Media coverage has been excellent and business participation has 

been high. The general public awareness and action have been impressive .. 

Noteworthy aspects of the program: The program is called 'Smog Alert' (Ozone proved to be 

confusing, so they left ozone out of the name). The program is run as a collaborative effort of 

several subcommittees on: 

• Education and outreach 

• Media Relations 

• Youth Education 

• Businesses 

• Technical 

The program is both an episodic and a seasonal program. INCOG is willing to share artwork and 

outreach materials since much was developed in-house for free. Cincinnati Gas and Electric 

spent money in April with NERA (National Economic Research Association) on the "Economic 

Impact of VOC emission reductions beyond the 15% plan in Cincinnati CMSA". The report 

quantifies _the economic impact of going to serious. 

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Cincinnati Area Ozone Action Day Information 

OZONE TERMINOLOGY 

SUMMER 1996 

Smog Alert A smog alert is issued between 3:00 and 3:30 p.m. the day before an anticipated high-ozone 

day by Hamilton County Department of Environmental Services if conditions are favorable for ozone to 

exceed an air quality index of 100. 

This is an emergency situation and businesses and individuals are asked to curtail all activities that 

contribute to ozone formation during the smog alert (driving, using oil-based paints and stains, refueling 

vehicles, using gas-powered lawn equipment, etc.). 

During a smog alert, the Greater Cincinnati Chamber of Commerce contact key businesses to ask for 

their immediate cooperation in reducing ozone-producing activities. 

Ozone Alert This is reserved for only the most extreme ozone emergencies and would be issued by the 

OhioEPA for an air quality index over 200. Cincinnati has not had an ozone ~ert since the mid-l 970's. 

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CLEAN AIR TIPS TO REDUCE SMOG 

Summer 1996 

There are simple, effective things that individuals and businesses can do on Smog Alert Days: 

Ride the bus (METRO 621-445SffANK 331-TANK.) 

Ride Share/van pool (241-RIDE) 

Walk or ride a bike 

Combine trips and limit unnecessary trips . 

Keep your vehicle tuned and maintained 

Refuel after 6:00 p.m. and don't top-off 

Use gas-powered lawn equipment after 6:00 p.m. 

Use oil-based points and stains after 6:00 p.m. 

Save electricity 

Spread the word 

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SMOG EXPERTS 

Summer 1996 

Ntoe: All numben are in the 513 area code 

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Hamilton Countt Department of Enyjronmeptal Seryjces 

Jeff Blunt, Public Affairs Coordinator 

Office 333-4741 

Home 871-8557 

Pager 343-4857. 

OKI Rujonal Council of Goyemmenq 

Judi Craig, Special Projects Coordinator 

621-6300 

Greater Cjncjnnati Chamber of Commerce 

John Williams, President 

Gene Langswager, Director of Environmental Affairs 

579-3116 

IheMEIRO 

Sallie Hilvers, Public Information Officer 

632-7681 

TANK 

Christy Fischer, Marketing Manager 

341-8267 

American Luge Au®iatiog 

Chuck Siko~ Director of Public Relations and Special Events 

985-3990 

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SMOG REDUCl'ION TIPS FOR 

BUSINESSES 

Summer 1996 

The Greater Cincinnati Chamber of Commerce has a comprehensive tipsheet Qf things that businesses 

can do to reduce ozone pollution especially on"~ ·~og Alert Days," including: 

Transportatiog 

Encourage or provide incentives for employees to take the bus, car-pool, bike or walk to work. 

Plan meetings· in the early morning, use conference calls, car-pool t9 meetings. Choose meeting 
Cincinnati Area Ozone Action Day Infonnation 

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locations that require .the least total amount of driving. 

Consider telecommuting, four-day work weeks and flex-time so employees avoid driving during 

3:00-6:00 p.m. rush-hour. 

Refuel fleet vehicles in the early morning or after 6:00 p.m. and don't top off or spill fuel. 

Facility issues 

Minimize bulk loading and unloading of fuel, solvents, and volatile chemicals; do this work in the early 

morning of• 6:00 p.m. . · 

Mow corporate lawns after 6:00 p.m. 

Use only water-based paints, cleaners, sealants, etc. 

Conserve electricity by turning the A/C wanner, deferring copying, turning out lights, turning off copiers 

and computers while not in use. 

Rajsjng awaregeu 

Make sure employees know the potential negative impact of the smog problem on their company and the 

region's economy. 

Encourage employers to car-pool and ride the bus to work. Provide incentives if possible. 

Allow employees to dress casually (maybe in shorts if the A/C will be warmer), cater lunch in or offer 

brown-bag lunch seminars to avoid car use on Smog Alert Days. 

Distribute Regional Ozone coalition materials to employees and encourage them to follow the tips for · Smo~ Alert Days. 

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TIPS ON SAVING ELECTRICITY 

FROMCG&E 

Summer 1996 

Tum tbemlostat warmer Set your thermostat at the highest comfortable setting for cooling. A setting 

of 76-78 degrees is recommended. For greatest comfort, make the adjustments gradually. Raise.the 

setting a degree or two per week so your body adjusts to the new temperature levels. 

Use a clock thermostat Operate your air conditioning at a warmer setting when you're normally away. 

Check with your dealer for the right model for your cooling system. . 

Use fags to cjrculate the ajr Use fans during moderate weather and to boost air movement when the air 

conditioner is running. This is much better than lowering the thermostat. 

Clean and jnspect A/C anggalty ~ve you_r cen~ air unit cleaned and inspected annually by a 

qualified heating/cooling contractor. 

. Keep filten clean Change or clean yoU:r furnace tilter monthly. 

Keep registen clear Make sure air supply regi;5ters are not blocked by furniture, draperies, or other 

items. 

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Darken the house duripg the day Keep shades down and draperies drawn on the side of the house that 

gets the most sun exposure. · 

Don't waste epergy in upused rooms Close air supply registers, keep the shades down and drapes 

drawn, close the windows and doors. · 

Use an attic fan An attic fan is effective in exhausting hot air out of the attic, benefiting the living area 

right below. 

Use a whole-house fan A whole house fan mounted in the ceiling going into the attic will hot air out of 

the house and draw in cooler air. 

Dress for the weather Wear loose-titting, open-weave clothing, open collars. 

Tum off lights Lights create heat, so use them only wr !re needed at the lowest setting that will do the 

job. 

Cook smart op bot days Use the appliances that heat your kitchen least. 

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CONSEQUENCES OF 

NONATIAINMENT 

Summer 1996 

What happens if Cjncjgnati becomes a "Serious" gogattajgment area? 

If the Cincinnati area become a "serious" nonattainment area under the Clean Air Act, additional 

requirements would be placed on us by the U.S. EPA. Requirements for serious nonattainment area 

include: 

Businesses with more than SO tons of emissions per year would be considered major sources and may be 

required to use pollution control equipment. Under "moderate" status, only busineSses with l 00 tons or 

more per year are major sources. 

Major sourcc:s would have to pay for every ton of pollutants they emit. 

For every ton of pollution emitted by the new industry, 1.2 tons would.have to be eliminated somewhere 

else, essentially restricting Cincinnati's ability to attract new businesses. 

A 3% reduction in VOCs would be required each year until compliance. 

Stage II vapor recovery technology would have to be in place at gas stations. This would already be done · . in Hamilton, Clermont, Warren and Butler counties. 

Clean Fleet programs would be implemented, affecting. businesses and governmental agencies that have 

fleet vehicles. These vehicles would have to nm on cleaner fuels (natural gas, blended fuels, 

reformulated gas, etc). 

Transportation control measures would be put in place to reduce vehicle miles traveled. These could 

include high-occupancy vehicle (HOV) lanes, mandatory employee commute programs or other mobile 

source reduction programs. 

What does that mean jn sjmple terms? 

Less freedom for individuals and more restrictions on economic development for the region. If 

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Cincinnati is designated a serious nonattaim,nent area, the cost to businesses and consumers would be in 

the millions annually 

What would the economic jmpact be on the region jfwe become a serious nopattajnment area? 

A study on the economic imp~t. of more stringent emis~ions controls t~ prevent ozone pollution shows a 

total impact of us to $112 million annually to area businesses and residents and a potential job loss of 

more than 14,000 positions. 

~e s~dy .was conducte~ by the Nati'?nal Econo~c R.esearch As~ociates and was commissioned by The 

Cincinnati Gas & Electnc Company m cooperation with the Regional Ozone Coalition. Its purpose was 

to qualify the economic impact of the Greater Cincinnati area being reclassified as a "serious" 

nonattainment area from its current "moderate" nonattainment status. 

The additional emission controls required under the "serious" classification would cost businesses at 

least $23 million more annually for increased operating and capital expenditures. Household would faceincreased costs of $63 to $89 million primarily for higher priced lower polluting gasolines and other 

auto-related measures. 

·The move to "serious" designation could also result in a strict limit on manufacturing expansion which, 

if imposed in November 1996, could mean the loss of more than 12, 700 jobs by the end of the century. 

Total job loss for the region could exceed 14,000. 

CLEAN AIR ACT REQUIREMENTS 

Summer 1996 

Wbat js the Qean Ajr Act? 

The Clean Air Act Amendment of 1990 is a federal law that established air quality standards and places 

requirements on metropolitan area not attaining those standards. It is administered by the United State 

Enviro,nmental Protection Agency (U.S. EPA). · 

The Clean Air Act sets standards for six different air pollutants: ozone, carbon monoxide, particulate . matter, lead, nitrogen dioxide and sulphm dioxide. 

The seven-county Greater Cincinnati metropolitan area has been designated a "moderate" nonattainment 

area for ozone only. We are in attainment for the other five pollutants. 

WHAT IS A "MQDERATE" NON-AlTAJNMENT ABEA? 

The Clean Air Act sets levels of air quality for each of the six pollutants monitored. From best to worst 

the levels are: attainment, marginal, moderate, serious, severe, and extreme. 

A moderate nonattainment area must do certain things to try to become an attainment area within s~ 

years (i.e. November 1996). This means that Cincinnati must be in attainment by the end of 1996 or 1t 

will be bumpered to the next level, which is "serious." 

Moderate nonattainment areas must: 

Develop a plan to reduce VOCs by 15% 

Identify major industrial sources that emit 1 ~ tons or more ~f emissions per year and require that they 

use pollution control eqwpment 

Institute pollution offsets, so that for every ton of pollution emitted by a new industry, 1.15 tons are · eliminated somewhere else 

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Implement Stage II vapor recovery systems at gas stations 

Having a contingency plan in case these actions don't achieve the necessary 15% voe reduction. This 

plan must reduce voes an additional 3% per year until attainment is reached. 

What js our area doin: to compb' wjth the Clean Air Act? 

Under the Clean Air Act, the Cincinnati area is required to reduce VOes 15% by the end of 1996, which 

equates to approximately 48 tons per day. Our area's plan to do this must be submitted to the OhioEP A 

as part of a state implementation plan (SIP) 

To achieve the necessary reductions, the following actions are being taken: 

Enhance inspection and maintenance procedures for vehicles. This test will take the most polluting cars · off the road, reducing VOC's by almost 10 percent when fully implemented. 

Stage II vapor recovery technology at gas pumps 

Better industrial pollution controls, such as those installed on coke oven batteries by the steel industry 

National rules are being developed to reduce VOCs in architectural coatings (paints or coating used for 

residential, public, commercial and industrial building, bridges and other structures) 

Several local industries are voluntarily niling emission by regular requirements. 

How can the Cjncjnnati am become IQ att&jnment area? 

In November 1994, Greater Cincinnati petitioned the USEP A for reclassification as an attainment area 

for ozone. 

With the most recent three-year period (i.e., 1993/199411995), there can be no more than three ozone 

exceedances a any one of the 10 ozone monitoring stations. Three at a station is okay, but it's critical not 

to go over three. More than three "exceedances" is considered a violation of the National Standard. 

The ozone monitor.at Lebanon, Ohio, recorded four exceedences in the last three year period. The Clean 

Air Act does allow U.S. EPA to grant our area a one year extension in which to meet the healthy air 

requirements. Io gyaliQ' for tbis. there must be no more than one exceedance at any sinale monitor, Ip 

otber word:s rrash monitor may record oply one exceedance tbis summer, 

How magy excced••m have then becg so fjr? 

In 1993, there was one exc.eedance at the Hamilton monitoring sation and one at the Middletown 

monitoring station in Ohio. Theie was also one exceedance at the Campbell County monitoring station 

in Kentucky. 

In 1994, there weie two exceedances at the Lebanon monitoring station ....nd one at the Batavia station. 

As you can see, we are already getting close to three at Lebanon. 

In 1995, there were two exceedance days a the Lebanon monitoring sation. 

If the Lebagoa moajtqr bad fogr exceeclagces. 

wbatnmy? 

Clean air standards have been violated since Lebanon has bad a total of four exceedances in the three 

year period. If we can not qualify for an extension by. the end of the summer, the region will "bumped 
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up" to serio~ :non-attainment status. 

OZONE BACKGROUND 

What js ozoge? 

Ozone is a gas and the main component of smog. Ozone is fonned by the reaction of sunlight and 

carbon-based chemicals called "hydrocarbons" acting in combination with nitrogen oxides (Nox). 

The "bad" ozone should not be confused with the protective layer of ozone in the upper atmosphere 

which protects the Earth from ultraviolet rays. 

What do hydrocarbons come from? 

Vehicle emissions create approximately 44% of all hydrocarbons. Industry sources like factories account 

for only about 20%. 

Surprisingly, gas powered lawn equipment, oil-based paints and stain,.dry cleaners, pleasure boating and 

other everyday sources account for about 36% of hydrocarbons. In general, the term hydrocarbon is 

interchangeable with volatile organic compounds (VOC). · · 

Why js ozoge bad? 

Ozone. can irritate mucous membranes and cause coughing, choking and impaired lung functions with 

prolonged exposure. Childre~ the elderly and people with bronchial conditions are apparently at risk. 

Ozone also injures vegetation and has adverse effects on materials (rubber and fabrics). 

What contributes to tbe Cjncjnnati area's ozone problem? 

Ozone is fonned when pollution from cars, trucks, industry and other sources combines in sunlight. The 

sun "bakes" these pollutants, turning them into ozone, or smog. 

When js ozogc mogjtorecl? 

In the Cincinnati area, ozone monitoring occurs April through October. However, high levels of ozone 

generally develop June through August. The· highest levels of ozone are generally recorded before 6:00 

p.m. . 

Wberc arc the monjtorinl statiogs? 

There are io monitoring stations in our metropolitan area, located in downtown Cine~ Colerain 

Township, Sycamore Township, Batavia, Lebanon, Mid~~wn and Hamilton in Ohio and in Boone, · Kenton and Campbell counues m Kentucky. 

In Ohio, monitoring is done by Hamilton C~unty Department '?fEn~~ental .Servi~. In Kentucky, it 

is done by the Kentucky EnVIronmental Protecnon Dtvtston of Air Quality. 

How mgcb ozogc js ok?· 

The maximum acceptable level for ozone is .120 part per million, which is equal to an air quality index 

of 100~ 

Here is the national air quality index criteria: 

0-50 Good 

S 1-100 Moderate 

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101-200 unhealthful 

What does tbjs mean jn p=eater Cjncjnnati? 

The Greater Cincinnati airshed is comprised of Hamilton, Clennont, Butler and Warren Counties in 

Ohio and Boone, Kenton and Campbell counties in Kentucky. 

The U.S. EPA has designated the seven-county Cincinnati metropolitan area as a "moderate" 

nonattainment area for ozone under the Clean Air Act To be considered an attainment area, the region 

must not exceed the air standard for ozone more than three times at any one of the 10 ozone monitoring 

sites in our area in any three year perio4 · 

### 
PROGRAM PROFILE - CLEVELAND. OH 

Episodic Control Program Profile- Cleveland, OH 

BASIC INFORMATION 

Program Name: Northeast Ohio Ozone Action Day Program 

Area of Coverage: Cleveland, Akron, Lorain. OH 

Main Pollutant(s) Targeted: Ozone 

Attainment Status (CO I PM10 I 03): PM· nonattainment; 03 - maintenance; CO -

· Cuyahoga County is maintenance 

Implementing Agency: Northeast Ohio Areawide Coordinating Agency 

(NOACA) 

Start Date: 1995 

Program Goals (Ranked) l. Public edueation 

2. Health Benefits 

Program required by law? 

Is the program enforceable? 

3. Economic benefits to the area of staying in attainment 

No 

Yes, program is included in the SIP 

Funding and Administration 

1996 Budget: $163,925 Funding Source(s): CMAQ 

# Full-time equivalent staff at the main agency 

# Full-time equivalent staff at other affiliated agencies 

Public Outreach 

Methods used to inform the public about the program 

• 

• 

• 

Radio advertisements 

Workshops (for school, industry, the public) 

Public education booths at community events 

eaid 

2 

l 

• 

• 

Creation and dissemination of public education materials 

Provide information to participating employees through their employers 

Describe most effective part of public outreach program: n/a 

Episode Day Actions Recommended by the Program 

volunteer Ia1al 

2 

l 

• 

A void driving at lunch time (take lunch to school or work) 

Use alternative modes oftranSpO~on (car/vanpools. transit, etc) instead of driving alone • 

• Combine multiple auto trips throughout the day 

I 
PROGRAM PROFILE - CLEVELAND. OH 

• Avoid refueling until the evening (i.e., after 6 p.m.) 

• Keep travel speeds at the speed limit and steady 

• Change work schedules to avoid the commute 

• A void the used of wood stoves and fireplaces · 

• A void using gasoline-powered garden equipment (lawnmowers, blowers, etc) 

• A void using charcoal lighter fluid 

• A void household maintenance activities that produce emissions {painting. degreasing. etc) 

• Postpone fleet refueling until evening (companies) 

• Reduce high-emitting production activities (Stationary Sources) 

• Avoid maintenance activities (Stationary Sources) 

• Postpone landscaping activities (Stationary Sources) 

• Switch to cleaner burning fuels (Stationary Sources) 

Discuss any unique control measures included in the program: nla 

• Don't top off the tank 

• Make certain gasoline caps are tightly sealed 

Participation & Incentives 

• Employen (140 employers+ stationary sources) 

• · Genera! public 

• Stationary Sources 

Incentives to Encourage Participalion 

General Public : None 

Companies: Economic benefits to the area of staying in attainment 

Employees: None 

·Forecasting Pollution Episode Days 

Weather forecaster & Pollution: 

Parameters Examined: · 

Criteria to setting forecast day: 

Method used to forecast day: 

Accuracy: 

National Weather Service, Technical subcommittee of Task 

Force 

max & min temperature, wind speed, wind direction, cloud 

cover, previous day max ozone concentration 

n/a 

Collaborative effort by the technical work group of the 

Northeast Ohio Ozone Action Task Force which utilizes a 

combination of the following methods: persistence, 

empirical, algorithm-base, and meteorological intuition. 

n/a 

2 
PROG.°RAM PROFILE - CLEVEUND. OH 

Notification Mechanisms 

• Television stations Method of notification : fax 

• Radio stations Method of notification : fax 

• Newspapers Method of notification : fax 

• Participating Stationary Sources Method of notification : fax 

• Employers Method of notification : .fax 

• Stationary Sources Method of notification : fax 

Television stations mention the alert day in the news reports and the weather report while 

newspapers include special announcements and articles. Radio stations mention the pollution 

episode day during the morning and afternoon traffic reports. 

Program Evaluation 

Data Collected: Employee participation rates provided by participating employers, 

infonnation provided by participating stationary sources. 

Other Data Desired: Yes, ozone monitoring data from other cities 

Analysis of Data: No 

Emission Estimated: n/a 

Emiss reduction per participant: n/a 

Cost per participant: n/a 

Emission RP.duction Ratio: n/a 

Main problems or pitfalls encountered durir~ the implementation of the program: n/a 

Parts of the program that have been the most successful: 

• The 1996 prograln resulted in more than 80 media placements, an increase of more than 30 

over 1995. 

• There were only S Ozone Action Days in 1996, compared to 16 in 1995. 

• Participa~on rates have increased significantly from 1995 to 1996. 

J 

13 i 

PROGRAM PROF/LE- CORi'CSCHRiSTI. rx 

Episodic Control Program Profile - Corpus Christi, TX 

BASIC INFORMATION 

Program Name: Ozone Public Education 

Area of Coverage: Corpus Christi, TX 

Main Pollutant(s) Targeted: Ozone 

Attainment Status (CO I PM10 I 03): CO & PM· attainment; 03 - near nonattainment 

Implementing Agency: City of Corpus Christi 

Start Date: 1995 

Program Goals (Ranked) 1. To ·maintain the attainment status of the area 

2. Public education 

Program required by law? 

Is the program enforceable? 

3. Economic benefits of staying in attainment 

No 

Yes; the program is included in the SIP 

Funding and Adminiitration 

1996 Budget: No funding received Funding Source(s): n/a 

# Full-time equivalent staff at the main agency 

# Full-time equivalent staff at other affiliated agencies 

Public Outreach 

Methods used to inform the public about the program 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

Television advertisements 

Radio advertisements 

Newspaper advertisements 

Billboard advertisements 

Workshops (for school, industry, the public) 

Public education booths at community events 

Creation and dissemination of public education materials 

14 

• 

• Provide informalion to participating employees through their employers 

Describe most effective part of public outreach program: n/a 

I 

Volunteer 

3 

0 

Imai 

3 

14 

133 
PROGRAM PROFILE - CORPUS CHRISTI. rx 

Episode Day Actions Recommended by the Program 

• Avoid driving at lunch time (take lunch to school or work) 

• Use alternative modes oftranSportation (car/vanpools, transit, etc.) instead of driving alone 

• Keep vehicle tuned-up 

• Combine multiple auto trips throughout the day 

• Work from home (telecommute) 

• A void refueling until the evening (i.e., after 6 p.m.) 

• Change work schedules to avoid the commute 

• Avoid the used of wood stoves and fireplaces 

• Avoid using gasoline-powered garden equipment (lawnmowers, blowers, etc.) 

• A void using charcoal lighter fluid 

• Avoid household maintetiance activities that produce emissions (painting, degreasing, etc.) 

• Postpone fleet refueling until evening (companies) 

• Use conferencing technologies instead of face to face meetings 

• Reduce high-emitting production activities (Stationary Sources) 

• Avoid maintenance activities (Stationary Sources) 

• Postpone landscaping activities (Stationary Sources) 

Discuss any unique control mellSUl'es inclwkd in the program: nla 

Participation & Incentives 

• Employers 

• General public 

• 7 Stationary Sources 

Incentives to Encourage Panicipolion. 

General Public : Transit discounts, Auto repair/tune-up discounts 

Companies: Public recognition 

Employees: Free or discounted transit fares 

Free or discounted lunches 

Forecasting Pollution Episode Days 

Weather forecaster & Pollution: 

Parameters Examined: 

Criteria to setting forecast day: 

Method used to forecast day: 

Accuracy: 

NWS. TNRCC I TNRCC 

Temp, WS, WD, omne (all forecast parameters) 

7:00 am temp> 90F, WS < 7kno-..;, 10am-4pm ave, 

WS<7 knots, 60<WD<200 deg, clear skies, omne>SO ppm 

WSIWD critical parameters, use met. intuition, empirical 

relationships and a statistical model based on nested grid 

model 

State meteorologists > 80 years experience, data is 

maintained. on accuracy, some years are better than others. 

2 
Notification Mechanisms 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

Television stations 

Radio stations 

Newspapers 

Participating Stationary Sources 

Employers 

Stationary Sources 

PROGRAM PROFILE - CORP C'S CHPJST!. TX 

Method of notification : fax 

Method of notification : fax 

Method of notification : fax 

Method of notification : fax 

Method of notification : fax 

Method of notification:· fax 

Television stations mention the alert day in the weather report and broadcast public service 

announcements while newspapers allocate space for an announcement and occasionally include 

articles on the topic. . Radio stations mention the pollution episode day in new reports and radio 

hosts make announcements. 

Program Evaluation 

Data Collected: None 

Other Data Desired: n/a 

Analysis of Data: n/a 

Emission Estimated: n/a 

Emiss reduction per participant: n/a 

Cost per pz.rticipant: n/a 

Emission Reduction Ratio: n/a 

Main problems or pitfalls encountered dw-ing the implementation of the program: 

• Making people realize the real serious potential consequences of not cleaning the air. 

• Developing specific targets and goals without a survey. 

• The program currently has no budget. 

Parts of the program that have been the most successful: 

• Getting the media to buy in a consistently remind the public of Action Days and 

responsibilities 

• Mascot recognition 

3 

PROGRAM PROFILE - DALL4S-FORT WORTH. TX 

Episodic Control Program Profile - DaJlas-Fort Worth, TX 

BASIC INFORMATION 

Program Name: Ozone Action or Ozone Alert 

Area of Coverage: Dallas-Fort Wo~ TX 

Main Pollutant(s) Targeted: Ozone 

Attainment Status (CO I PM10 I 0 3): Moderate Nonattainment- ozone 

Implementing Agency: North Central Texas Council of Government & North 

Texas Clean Air Coalition 

Start Date: Summer 1993 

Program Goals (Ranked) I. Attain AQ standards 

2. Public Education/Health Benefits 

Program required by law? 

Is the program enforceable? 

3. Congestion Management/Economic Benefits 

No 

No 

Funding and Administration 

1996 Budget: $250,000 Funding Source(s): ISTEA/CMAQ 

# Full-time equivalent staff at the main agency 

# Full-time equivalent staff at oth4r affiliated agencies 

Public Outreach 

Methods used to inform the public about the program 

• Television advertisements 

• Radio advertisements 

• Newspaper advertisements 

• Billboard advertisements 

.faid 

4 

4 

• Internet web site (http://www.nc:tcog.dst.tx.us/envir/aq/aqhome.html) 

• Public education booths at community events 

• Creation and dissemination of public education materials 

• Provide information to participating employees through their employers 

volunteer I.ata1 

4 

4 

Describe most effective part of public outreach program: While TV commercials have probably 

reached out to the largest segment of the population, the Dallas program has also made focused 

efforts at educating the both the media and science teachers so that both groups can effectively 

and accurately pass on the message. They have been giving 1 day workshops for science 

teachers and the heads of each school district and have occasionally sent speakers out to classes. 

In addition to giving teachers packets of informatio~ the NCTCOG also operates an extensive 

internet web site which contains information of the status of the 8.lert day, basic information 

1 
PROGRAM PROFILE - DALLAS-FORT WORTH. TX 

. about the program and the health impacts of ozone, and annual exceedance and alert day 

statistics to show the effectiveness of the program. Example of some of these pages are attached, 

the main page can be accessed at http://www.nctcog.dsttx.us/envir/aq/aqhome.html. 

Since the media has been fairly active at promoting the program. they are now hiring an 

advertising firm to develop and post simple messages with the NCTCOG's phone number on 

billboards around Dallas. They have set up a phone number with a recorded message with the 

status of the alert day and directions for further information. 

Episode Day Actions Recommended by the Program 

• Avoid driving at lunch time (take lunch to school or work) 

• Use alternative modes of transportation (car/vanpools. transit, etc) instead of driving alone 

• Keep vehicle tuned-up . 

• Work from home (telecommute) 

• Avoid refueling until the evening (i.e., after 6 p.m.) 

• Change work schedules to avoid the commute 

• Postpone fleet refueling until evening (companies) 

• Use Fleet vehicles to attend lunch/meetings (companies) 

• Use conferencing technologies instead offace to face meetings 

• Avoid maintenance activities (Stationary Sources) 

• Postpone landscaping activities (Stationary Sources) 

• Switch to cleaner burning fuels (Stationary Sources) 

Discuss al'I)' unique control measwes included in the program: Many of the large employers in 

the area have committed to reducing lawn maintenance and other activities which can be put off 

on a short term basis. Many employers have also pledged to educate their employees and offer 

incentives. Texas-Instruments, for example, at their McKinney site, offers gift certificates 

amounting to $1.00 a day for each person in a carpool and prefeiential parking for carpools. TI' s 

main site has three vanpools and shuttle buses to move employees between buildings on the 

campus. The Lewisville site bas a telecommuting pilot program and other sites have built-in 

storage lockers and shower facilities to encourage biking. The TI goal is to find out what works 

best and get 20% of the employees involved in voluntary trip reduction programs. 

Participation & Incentives 

• 1500 Employers 

• General public 

• Stationary Sources 

Incentives to Encourage Participation 

General Public: 

Companies: 

Employees: 

Transit Discounts. 

Public Recognition 

Free or discounted transit fares 

Free or discounted lunches 

Flexible work schedules 

Preferential parking & economic incentives for car/vanpools 

Guaranteed emergency ride home for employees who car/vanpooVtransit 

2 
PROGP.AM PRC'F!LE - DALLAS-FORT WORTH. TX 

Forecasting Pollution Episode Days 

Weather forecaster & Pollution: NWS. TNRCC I TNRCC 

Parameters Examined: 

Criteria to setting forecast day: 

Temp, WS, WD, ozone (all forecast parameters) 

7:00 am temp> 90F, WS < 7knots, 10am-4pm ave, 

Method used to forecast day: 

Accuracy: 

Notification Mechanisms 

• Television stations 

• Radio stations 

• Newspapers 

• Employers 

• Stationary Sources 

• Gas stations 

WS<7 knots, 60<WD<200 deg, clear skies, ozone>SO ppm 

WS/WD critical parameters, use met. intuition, empirical 

relationships and a statistical model based on nested grid 

model 

State meteorologists> 80 years experience, data is 

maintained on accuracy, some years are better than others. 

Method of notification : fax 

Method of notification : fax 

Method of notification : fax 

Method of notification : fax 

Method of notification : fax 

Method of notification : fax 

Television stations mention the alert day in the news reports and the weather report while 

newspapers include special announcements and articles. Radio public service announcements 

are broadcast and included in news stories and by DJ's. Employers and other companies are 

exploring alternative methods of notifying t'i.e public. Methods such as flying ozone alert flags 

and placing window stickers and placards are being tried. Dallas has developed a ozone alert 

symbol for the media to use. Employers can also use the symbol when informing their 

employees about the program via company newsletters. 

Program Evaluation 

Data Collected: Surv~ transit ridership, traffic counts, stationary source & employee 

participation rates. 

Other Data Desired: Still trying to identify - TNRCC responsible for analysis of program 

Analysis of Data: No 

Emission Estimated: n/a 

Emiss reduction per participant: n/a 

Cost per participant: n/a 

Emission Reduction Ratio: n/a 

Main problems or pitfalls encountered during the implementation of the program: Coordination 

between different cities has been a problem. 

Parts of the program that have been the most successful: Implementation of reduced transit fares, 

the ozone alert fax network and material distribution have worked well. 

3 

139 

Air Quality . \ 1+ l 

http://wwYv nctcog.d ... nvir/aq/aqhome.htr 

1of2 

AIR QUALITY 

In North Central Texas 

Air Quality planning in North Central Texas is the responsibility of the Texas Natural Resourc~ 

Conservation Commission. The North Central Texas Council of Governments <NCTCOQ). through its 

Air Quality Advisory Committee. provides policy and technical assistance on a range of air quality issues., 

supports the Ozone Alert program, and is a co-founder of the North Texas Clean Air Coalition. Since a 

four-county area including Dallas and Fort Worth is non-attainment for ozone. much attention is being 

placed on reaching attainment by 1996. The Transportation Department of the NCTCOG is also the 

designated Metropolitan Planning Organization for transportation and mobile source.lair quality planning 

in the Dallas-Fon Worth Metropolitan Area. 

~ Adobe Agobat is required to view documents displaying this icon. Please download the software if 

you do not already have it available. 

09/17 /96 10:23: 
\~a. Air Quality http://www.nctcog.d ••• nvir/aQ/aQhome.1 .. 

! • Ozone Information ~ 

• • 

~ 

• • 

> Ozone Alert Status 

> Ozone Scorecard: 1993 to 1995 

> Ozone Scorecard: 1996 

> Ozone Alert & Exceedance Data 

> 1990 Emissions Inventory 

> Historic Air Quality 

~Map of Monitoring Sites 3 S5K 

> Educ;ationa1 Materials 

• Air Quality Status Reports 

~Summer 1996 (8 pages 1.021\fB) 

~Winter 1995-1996 (6 pages 289K) 

~Fall 1995 (4 pages 360IQ 

~ Spring/Summer 1995 (5 pages 946K) 

'1Winter 1994-1995C7pages1.3MB) 

~ • Air Quality Advisory Committee 

> Membership Roster 

• Related Information 

> ~ AERCO (Air Emissions Reduction 

> Monthly Agenda and Meeting Summazy Credit Organization) 

> Regional Weather Information 

~ • SIP (State Implementation Plan) 

~Information 

• TNRCC Smoking Vehicle Program 

• 

~ 

• 

> INRCC Air Quality 

~ INRCC Current Status of SIP Programs 

> :W&.;kl~Qil.tw:ID.JUQJLtm~YmltwlE 

> Smoking vehicle Program 

~~.mrnmrnrrmrrmrrmm-r.rrrnnnrnTnr.nnr.nnr.'n'Tlnn~~:;-m~:;-mr.rr.m-r.rTmrrrnm-r.~nnr.nr.nn-n-r.mr.rr.~C 

Examples Across the Nation and the World 

• Air Quality 

• Environmental Information 

• Governmental Infoonation 

Back to Top of This Page 

,_C'f('Oc; 

•) e-ftrall"""u..-""!'·'!""~ ec,.,,,..-- ... -._-, latommioa---1-~-.-.,_-, HQ..11! 

Lu& updated: July 26. 199' Web Pap bap:/lwww.acrmg.dlUx.'llllcavirlacr•qhome htrpl 

Copyrigb& 0 199S North Ccmral Tem CouDcil af<mawww 

616 Siz F1.ag1 Dr. P.O. Ba% 5888 Arlill(tOll. Tmu 760Qj.J888 . 
Ozone Alert Action Day Status 1'f) http:J/www.nctcog.d ... c 1i-bin/envir/ozona 

1 of 1 

Ozone Alert Action Day Status 

Dallas-Fort Worth Metropolitan Area 

Access Time: 12:20: 11 Tue Sep 17 1996 

NO OZONE ALERT ACTION DAY IN EFFECT 

The Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission 

Will NOT Declare An Ozone Alert Action Day For: 

Today 

Tue Sep 17 1996 

Weather conditions in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metropolitan Area are not expected to 

be favorable for the accumulation and production of high levels of ozone. 

List Previous Alerts Declared in 1996 

~~·············································;;;··i;;;···········································T 

!I Sun II Mon I T•• 11 Wed I Thu I Fri I Sat I 

: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 

lIJ 9 lo u 12 I 13 I 14 I ~~ 16 1 / 18 19 [iiDiJ 

lfill 23 I 24 11 2s I 26 11 21 I 2s I ~iJ!JW 

This page is maintained and updated daily by the 

North Central Texas Council of Governments. 

It has been accessed 1567 Tunes Since April 30,1996 

Insidef'.R II Air Quality II Alert and Exceedance Data II NCTCOG 

09/17196 10:23:3 

PROGRAM PROF7LE-D£.\vER. CO 

Episodic Control Program Profile-Denver, CO 

BASIC INFORMATION 

Program Name: 

Area of Coverage: 

Main Pollutant(s) Targeted: 

Attainment Status (CO/PMI0/03): 

Implementing Agency: 

Start Date: 

Program Goals (Ranked) 

Program required by law? 

Is the program enforceable? 

High Pollution Advisory Program 

Denver Metro Area, CO 

PMIO 

Nonattainment for CO, PMI 0, and 03 

Air Pollution Control District 

1987 

1. Attain air quality standards (NAAQS) 

2. Public education 

3. Health benefits 

yes (Regulation No. 4) 

yes 

Funding and Administration 

1996 Budget: $51,222 Funding·Source(s): Federal funds and 

collected fees 

# Full-time equivalent staff at the main agency 

# Full-time equivalent staif at other affiliated agencies 

Public Outreach 

Methods used to inform the public about the program 

• Free media exposure (TV, radio. newspaper) 

Paid 

l 

• Internet web site (http:/lwww . .state.eo.us/gov_dir/cdpbe_dir/aq.htm.l) 

• Public education booths at community events 

• Creation and dissemination of public education mareria1s 

• Provide information to participating employees through their employers 

• Pollution advisory hotline 

Volunteer Total 

l 

0 

Describe the most effective part of public outreach program: It is difficult to tell which methods 

are most effective since there is little data on how people hear about the program. The pollution 

advisory Hotline, however, appears to be very etfectiv~ receiving over 1,000,000 calls over the S 

month high pollution season. The web sit~ which contains a counter, has also received a lot of 

use. 

In 1991 a study was ·conducted examining the public perceptions of different notification systems. 

The results suggested that notification sy~ems using two announcements (3 pm day before and 

l 

I I rl 'l) 
PROGRAM PROFILE-DENVER. CO 

9 am day of) and three clear designations (clear, warning, and alert) would work better than the 

existing system. The study also showed that the use of colors (blue, yellow, and red) and symbols 

(circle, triangle, and octagon) also help to communicate the alert status to a wider audience 

(including commuters, noncommuters, children. etc.). The results of this study helped to form the 

existing program which calls a Red Advisory for mandatory woodbuming and voluntary driving 

restrictions and Blue Advisories for no restrictions. 

Episode Day Actions Recommended by the Program · 

• Use alternative modes of ttansportation (car/vanpools, transit. etc.) instead of driving alone 

• Combine multiple auto trips throughout the day 

• Work from home (telecommute) 

• Change work schedules to avoid the commute 

• Avoid the used of wood stoves and fireplaces (mandatory) 

• No open burning . . 

• Use conferencing technologies instead of face to face meetings (Companies) 

Participation & Incentives 

• General public 

• Employers 

Incentives to Encourage Participation 

General Public: None 

Companies: None 

Employees: None 

Forecasting Pollution Episode Days 

Weather & Pollution forecaster: 

Parameters Examined: 

Criteria used to set episode day: 

Method used to forecast day: 

Accuracy: 

CDPHE-APCD 

surface inversion cycl~ wind speed, synoptic patterns, 

mesoscale circulations, snow cover, relative humidity, press. 

PSI > I 00 and VSI (Visual Standard Index) > I 00, PM10 > 

85ug/m3 (24 hr). 

3 forecast models used: inversion bum-off forecast, 

synoptic/mesoscale pattern analysis using Nested Grid 

Model (NGM) outputs, ETA, A VN, MMS and NMS model 

output 

70-75% accurate 

It should be noted that the models used to forecast PM10 exceedances in Aspen and Steamboat 

Springs include information on both meteorological conditions and high emissions. The most 

significant emissions in both of these areas result from road sanding material which has 

accumulated on area roads and road surfaces. Reentrained dust occurs from these surfaces :when 

the road surfaces have dried. Since both of these towns have initiated programs to reduce the 

amount of sand and gravel applied to roadways, the current versions of the forecast models may 

have to be recalibrated to remain accurate. Since Denver's air quality is less dependent on this 

2· 
PROGRA.~ PROFlLE-DE.VVER. CO 

single source of emissions, the model will be less significantly impacted by reductions of these 

emissions, but should also be recalibrated. 

Notification Mechanisms 

• 

• 

• 

• 

Television stations 

Radio stations 

Newspapers 

Employers 

Method of notification : fax 

Method of notification .: fax 

Method of notification: fax 

Method of notification : fax 

!elevisi~n sta~ons mention the alert day in the weather report while newspapers include alert day 

mfonnat1on with the Pollutant Standard Index (PSI) report. Also space is allocated in the paper 

for a special announcement. Radio stations report this information to the public by mentioning it 

in the news, weather and traffic reports. 

Prognm Evaluation 

Data Collected: 

Other Data Desired: 

Analysis of Data: 

Emission Estimated: 

Emiss reduction per participant: 

Cost per participant: 

Emission Reduction Ratio: 

Some public awareness data has been collected through the 

use of public focus groups and enforcement data has been 

collected ( 66% compliance rate). 

No 

No 

n/a 

n/a 

n/a 

n/a 

A study of public perceptions of air quality in Colorado was conducted in May of 1995 which 

included two focus groups. Both groups stated that they were aware of the high pollution day 

advisories, but neither group believed the driving restriction requests were followed or seen as 

important as woodburning. Both groups mentioned that options for alternative transponation 

were limited and did not perceive high enforcement of the woodburning bans. Both groups knew 

about the program by radio and TV, but mentioned that the announcements did little to motivate 

or describe the seriousness of the air quality problem. Recommendations to improve the 

advisories included: 

• Make the advisories more visible and motivational (stress personal impacts. i.e. health effects) 

• Develop a chart to inform the public (like the pollen count chart) 

• Provide incentives to participate 

• . Iriclude industry, close drive-up windows and try driVing tolls 

• Expand public education (esp. on health effects of pollution and kids education) 

The Colorado Department of Health estimates that emissions from wood burning fireplaces are 

expected to be reduced by 60% due to burning bans during the winter and spring seasons. In 

addition, emissions from uncertified wood stoves are ~pected to be reduced by 4 7. 5% on high 

pollution days. Further emission reductions can be attributed to a legislative ban on installation of 

new fireplaces and conversion of fireplaces and wood stove to cleaner burning technology. An 

3 
PROGRAM PROFlLE-DEllfVER. CO 

annual reduction of 146. 7 tons of PM10 has been attributed to control strategies related to the 

High Pollution Advisory Program. 

Main problems or pitfalls encountered during the implementation of the program: Enforcement 

is left to the municipalities. Some aggressively enforce~ some don't. 

Parts of the program that have been the most successful: Public infonnation aspect of the 

program is the most successful. The public outreach efforts have made the program highly visible 

and accepted in the community. 

Noteworthy aspects of the program: 

• Participation in the woodbuming provisions of the t'rogram by the general public is 

mandatory, required by Colorado regulation No. 4. 

• They receive SIP credit for this program so periodic evaluations of the program are 

perfonned. 

• A field study ofwoodburning compliance levels established a 67% compliance rate in 1993. 

This compliance rate was established using infrared photography of smoke stacks on pollution 

episode days. Administrators say the actual compliance rate is probably between 70-800/o. 

4 
Colorado APCO t·n http://www.state.co .. .r/cdphe _ dir /aQ.ntr 

1of2 

=Colorado Department of Publii:Hea/th and Environment (CDP HE) 

m Air Pollution Control Division (APCD) 

Clean Air Colorado Air Quality Advisory 

The 1995-1996 High Pollution Advisory Program has concluded. Thank you for your 

interest and support in improving air quality in the Denver-metro area. 

For current air quality information year round, please call 782-0211. 

For information on the High Pollution Advisory Program, please call 692-3281. 

Air quality advisories are issued daily from Oct. 31 through March 31 at 4 p.m. 

RED advisories indicate that either current air quality is poor or conditions are expected to worsen later 

in the day or the next day. Red advisories trigger mandatory woodbuming restrictions and voluntary 

driving reductions in the six-county Denver-metro area <see Woodbuming below). 

BLUE advisories indicate that air quality is good or fair and no restrictions are in place while the 

advisory is in effect. 

The VISmILITY STANDARD INDEX reports the air's visual quality in the Denver-metro area. The 

visibility standard is 0.076 per kilometer of atmospheric extinction, which means that 7.6 percent of the 

light in a kilometer of air is blocked. The level must exceed the standard based on a four-hour average for 

a violation to occur. On the Visibility Standard Index Scale, a value of 101 equates to the 0.076/km 

standard. Values between 0-50 are good, 51-100 fair, 101-200 poor and 201-plus extremely poor. 

The POLLUTION STANDARD INDEX reports the daily level of air pollution on an hourly basis. The 

index reports the highest level of either carbon monoxide, fine particulates or ozone depending on which 

pollutant has the greatest hourly concentration. Values greater than 108 for.carbon monoxide, 103 for 

fine particulates and 106 for ozone indicate exceedances of the pollutant's state and federal standards 

Pollutant Standard Index values between 0-50 are good, 51-100 fair, 101-200 poor and 201-plus 

extremely poor. 

WOODBURNING: During red advisories, mandatory woodbuming restrictions generally apply to 

everyone in the entire six-county Denver metropolitan area below 7, 000 feet. The restrictions will be 

enforced through local ordinances or a state regulation. . 

The state regulation applies to any community in the six-county Denver-metro area that did not have its 

own mandatory woodbuming ordinance in effect on Jan. 1, 1990. Under this regulation, the only 

exceptions to the woodburning restrictions are for people living above 7,000 feet; those who use 

Colorado Phase ill (Phase II EPA) certified woodbuming stoves, Colorado approved pellet stoves, 

approved masonry heaters or those whose stoves or fireplaces are their primary source of heat. For more 

information on woodbuming restrictions, call the Air Pollution Control Division at (303) 692-3100. 

09/17196 09:34: 

PROGRAM PROFILE - DETROIT. Jfl 

Episodic Control Program Profile - Detroit, MI 

Basic Information 

Program Name: 

Area of Coverage: 

Main Pollutant(s) Targeted: 

Attainment Status (CO I PM10 I 03): 

Implementing Agency: 

Start Date: 

Program Goals (Ranked) 

Program required by law? 

Is the program enforceable? 

Funding and Administration 

1996 Budget: -$150,000 

Ozone Action Program 

Detroit Metropolitan Area: Wayne, Oakland, Macolm, 

Livingston, Washtenaw, Monroe, St Clair Counties 

Ozone 

Ozone· parts of Wayne, Macolm, Oakland counties 

Particulates • part of Wayne County 

Clean Air Coalition of Southeast Michigan 

Staffed by the South East Michigan Council of Governments 

(SEMCOO) 

June 1994 

1. Attain Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) 

2. Public Education · 

3. Health Benefits 

. No 

No 

Funding Source(s): CMAQ/Private Contributors 

Volunteer Tum1 

# Full-time equivalent staff at the main agency 

faid 

1 1 

# Full-time equivalent staff at othe1' affiliated agencies >2 >2 

Public Outreach 

Methods used to infonn the public about the program (Not ranked) 

• Provide information to participating employees through their employers 

• Television advertisements 

• Public education booths at community events (2 available displays) 

• Creation and dissemination of public education materials . 

• Radio advertisements 

• Workshops (for schools. industry, public) 

• Newspaper advertisements 

• Internet Website (http://www.semcog.org/ozoneaction/) 

• Cable 1V shows/interviews 

• Writing articles/oped pieces (e.g., Chamber of Commerce, AAA, Detroiter magazine) 

Desc1'ibe the most ejfectiVe part of the public outreach program:. Detroit's program is firmly 

based in its partnership and educating the public that there is something that they can do to be 

part of the solution. The coalition partners act as ambassadors for the program; Detroit Edison 

ls l 
PROGRAM PROFILE -- DETROIT. Jf/ 

asks its contractors to follow the suggested actions and adds program infonnation to its billing 

statements (as do the other utilities). Their program is preventative; the message is proactive - if 

you do these things, the air will be cleaner. They believe that they are successful; one poll 

showed that over 1 million people are doing something. The forecasting is consensus based and 

uses scientists from Detroit Edison. Consumers Power, Michigan DEQ, and General Motors. 

Episode Day Actions Recommended by the Program 

• A void driving at lunch time (take lunch to school or work) 

• Use alternative modes of transpartation ( car/vanpools, transit. etc) instead of driving alone - There is a special 

rideshare program for ozone action days) 

• Keep vehicle tuned-up 

• Combine multiple auto trips throughout the day 

• Work from home (telecommute) 

• Re.fuel the night before or day after an ozone alert day; wait at least until after 6 pm for re-fueling 

! Change work schedules to avoid the commute · 

• Avoid using gasoline-powered garden equipment (lawnmowers, blowers. etc) 

• Avoid household maintenance activities that produce emissions (painting, degreasing, etc) 

• Postpone fleet refueling until the evening (i.e., after 6 p.m.). 

• Use conferencing technologies instead of face to face meetings 

• A void engine idle and jackrabbit starts · 

• Keep the gas cap tight or, if lost, replace it 

• For multi-car families, drive newer car on ozone alert days 

These suggestions are highlighted as being applicable to boats also. 

In the first year of the program, Marathon produced low RVP gas. Mobil provides program brochures at 

300 stations in the area. Brochures are aJso available at the Secretary of State offices. Kelsey Hayes has 

a l 0 point list of actions that it suggests to its plants. Several companies have worked with suppliers and 

contractors (especially groundskeeping crew and transportation fleet contractors) to reduce 

environmental impacts on ozone alert days by postponing lawn care and truck re-fueling.. 

Participation & lnc~ntives 

• 400 participating employers 

• General public 

Incentives to Encowage Participation 

General Public : Free transit is available in Ann Arbor from the transit company 

Companies: Public Recognition 

Employees: Free or discounted transit fares 

Forecasting Pollution Episode Days 

Weather forecaster & Pollution: At least two from a pool of meteorologists from General Motors, 

Michigan Department of Environmental Quality, Detroit Edison, 

Consumers Power 

Criteria to setting forecast episode day: NI A 

Method used to forecast episode day: They use a checklist (e.g., temperature, cloud cover, humidity, 

weather the day before, etc.) but aJso rely on best judgement 

practices. 

2 
PROGRAM PROFILE - DETROIT. Jfl 

The Co.uncil expects approximately 10-12 ozone action days each year (in 1995, it had 16 days due to unusually hot 

weather). 

Notification Mechanisms 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

Television stations 

Radio stations 

Newspapers 

Participating Employers 

General Public 

Method of notification : 

Method of notification : 

Method of notification : 

Method of notification : 

Method of notification : 

phone, fax. AP wire service, contract wire service 

phone: fax. AP wire service, contract wire service 

phone, fax, AP wire service, contract wire service 

fax if on list 

hotline, e-mail. website 

One media company has donated air time for public service announcements. Many companies broadcast the press 

release to their employees via phone-mail and E-mail. 

Program Evaluation 

Data Collected: Survey data 

Other Data Desired: n/a 

Analysis of Data: Yes. 

Emission Estimated: n/a 

Emiss reduction per participant n/a I 

Cost per participant: n/a 

Emission Reduction Ratio: n/a 

Some survey mechanisms have been used and will continue this year. The Council has done some "backof-the-envelope" calculations to determine the benefits of the program. Overall, the program is short on 

funds to perform many of the desired analyses and the Council believes that publicity generated by ozone 

action days helped the Detroit area to avoid non-attainment days "several" times last year. Its biggest 

successes have been awareness and broad participation (by companies and citizens). Its biggest problem 

is a lack of dedicated funds for continued implementation. Qualitatively, they increasingly receive 

requests for educational materials and the list of participating employers increased from 200-400 in three 

months. 

Evaluation Opportunities: A retrospective look could be taken during the first summer when Marathon 

sold low RVP gas in the area for any air quality trends. 

Main problems or pitjblls encovntered during the implementation of the program: SEMCOG would like 

to see a better overall description of the benefits of the activities proposed in an episodic control 

pro~. For example, compare lawn mower emissions to vehicles and not have the information conflict 

with what another group is saying. 

Parts of the program that have been the most successful: Educating the public that the air could be 

cleaner and there are many small things that can be done to be part of the solution. 

Noteworthy aspects of the program The Clean Air Coalition consists of20 - 25 organiz.ations, including 

auto companies, utilities, environmental groups, and governments. Coalition members and their · 

employees are expected to follow the recommendations of the Ozone Action Information Line, and 

member organizations play a key role in creating awareness. The Coalition's current goal is to broaden 

participation rates of current coalition members, rather than broaden the coalition in terms of number of 

organizations. A Council-commissioned study found that 80 percent of area residents had heard of the 

3 

\ 5 3 
l 5~. 

PROGRAM PROFILE·- DETROIT. .'.fl 

Ozone Action program, and one million households claimed that they followed at least one 

recommendation of the program on high ozone pollution days. 

Clean Air Coalition members have made the following significant contributions: 

• A utility regularly includes information in bills regarding ozone pollution and actions that residents can take. 

• One media company has donated air time for public service announcements. 

• An oil company developed and marketed a low vapor-pressure gasoline that helps reduce ozone pollution. 

• Severa! companies have worked with suppliers and contractors (especiaJly groundskeeping crew and 

transportation fleet contractors) to reduce environmentaJ impacts on ozone alert days by postponing lawn care 

and truck re-fueling. 

4 
SEMCOG's Ozone Action Day We > Page! . I~~ http:11www.semcog.org1ozoneacnoa. 

I of 3 

OZONE 

ACTICJN! 

LET'S CLEAR THE AIR~ 

1996 Ozone Season Ends: Region's Air Quality in 

Good Shape . . 

Southeast Michigan experienced onJy six Ozone Action! days this year, 

well below last year's record-breaking season of 16 declared Action! days. 

The region's air quality fared well due to a combination of mild weather, 

low vapor pressure gasoline and an educated population reducing 

emissions on Ozone Action! days. 

No violations of the federal ozone standard were recorded this summer. 

Two exceedances, however, were recorded this season at the Warren and 

Port Huron moniton. This information is subject to validation by the 

Michigan Department of Environmental Quality. 

Southeast Michigan will enter the: lm ozone season with no air 

monitoring stations in violation sta~ 

The Coalition is working with schools daring the "ofl'' season. The 

Coalition provides classroom materials free of charge in the Southeast 

Michigan region. Items include: Ozone Action! teacher resource packets 

for grades K-5, 6-8 or 9-12; a Windows-based computer software program 

and study guide; and a classroom video on ground-level ozone. For 

additional information about these educational materiaJs, or if you have 

any questions about this notice, please call 313-961-4266, or e-mail us at 

ozoaeaction@semcq.or:-

For more information call toll-free: 1-800-66-33-AIR 

The Ozone Action! program is sponsored by the Clean Air Coalition of 

Southeast Michigan. Ozone Action! is a program aimed at improving air quality 

in Southeast Michigan through voluntary actions by citizens, businesses and 

other organizations. 

Please direct inquiries to: 

Clean Air Coalition of Southeast Michigan 

c/oSEMCOG 

660 Plu.a Drive, Suite 1900 

Detroit, Michigan 48226 

(313) 961-4266 

03/31197 14:44:2' 
\SID 

SEMCOG's Ozone Action Day Web Page! http://www.semcog.org/ozoneacti 

E-mail: ozoneactjon@semcoi.or" 

More infonnation about ozone monitoring {including hourly measurements on 

Ozone Action! days) and meteorological forecasting is available by visiting the 

Michigan Department of Environmental Quality, Air Qμalifl' Division's Ozane 

A ctian! ·web nau. . Additional infonnation on air quality issues is available by accessing the 

Michigan Department of Environmental Quality, Air Quali!JI Divisjon's 

homeoau. 

OZONE ACTIONS! At home! On the road! 

There are a number of actions people can take on Ozone Action! days to reduce 

hydrocarbon emissions and help prevent excessive ozone and related health 

problems. Of course, ta.king these actions on a regular basis will mean cleaner 

air all the time. '"' 

Taking Ozone Actions on the Road 

• Refuel carefully. Avoid spilling gasoline. Don't top off the tank. Make· 

certain your gas cap seals tightly. If it is missing, buy a new one. If you 

must refuel, do so in cooler evening hours. Plan ahead so you don't need 

• to refuel on Ozone Action! days. . Don't idle the engine unnecessarily. Idling for more than 30 seconds 

produces more hydrocarbon emissions than turning off and re-starting the 

engine. 

• Minimize "cold starts" by combining trips so your catalytic converter 

remains warm; most emissions occur when the converter is cold and 

• inefficient. 

Limit your driving .. On Ozone Action! days, consider telecommuting, 

carpooling or riding the bus. For short trips, consider walking or-riding 

your bicycle. Drive your lowest emission vehicle, usually your newest 

• model. · · Use public transportation. Call the following numbers for route and 

scheduling information: - AA TA (Ann Arbor) - 313-996-0400 (Free rides on Omne Action! days 

during summer 1996) 

DDOT (Detroit)- 313-933-1300 . 

SMART (Wayne, Oakland and Macomb Counties) - 313-962-5515 

• Maintain your vehicle according to the manufacturer's engine tune-up and 

emission control standards. 

Taking <hon• Actions at How. 

• Don't mow your lawn with a gasoline-powered mower, nor use other 

gasoline-powered maintenance equipment. If you must, wait until the 

cooler evening hours. 

• Avoid using oil-based paint and other solvents on Ozone Action! days. 

Apply paint with rollers and brushes instead of sprays, to cut down on 

fumes. 

: A void using charcoal lighter fluid when barbecuing. 

Work at home, if possible. If you must commute, use the bus or a 

carpool. SEMCOG's RideShare promm 
SEMCOG's Ozone Action Day Web Page! 

3 ofJ 

For further infonnation about Ozone Action!, 

contact ozoneaction@semco~.ori. 

For further infonnation about SEMCOG, 

contact thomas@semco~.ori. 

For further information about this Web site, 

contact webmaster@semcoK.OCi 

I~ I 

http:1iwww.semcog.org1ozoneacuon. 

03/31/97 14:44:2 

PROGRAM PROFILE- HOUSTON-GALVESTON. rx 

Episodic Control Program Profile -Houston-Galveston, TX 

BASIC INFORMATION 

Program Name: Clean Air Action 

Area of Coverage: Houston • Galveston, TX 

Main Pollutant(s) Targeted: Ozone 

Attainment Status (CO I PM10 I 0 3):Attainment- ozone 

Implementing Agency: City of Houston, TNRCC 

Start Date: 6/27/96 

Program Goals (Ranked) I. Public Education I Health Benefits 

Program required by law? 

Is the program enforceable? 

Funding tnd Administration 

1996 Budget: $368,000 

2. Attain AQ, Emiss. reductions, congestion 

management, economic benefits 

No 

No 

Funding Source(s): IS~ CMAQ 

# Full-time equivalent staff at the main agencjl 

Ea.id 

3 

Volunteer L2ta1 

3 

# Full-time equivalent staff at other affiliated agencie.s 1 1 

Public .Outreach 

Methods used to inform the public about the program 

• Television advertisements 

• Television call-in show. 

• Radio advertisements 

• Newspaper advertisements 

• Internet site 

• Workshops (for schools, industry, public) 

• Public education booths at community events 

• Creation and dissemination of public education materials 

• Provide information to participating employees through their employers 

Describe the most effective part of public outreach program: Initial efforts were focused on 

establishing the program logo with the media and educating the media (esp. local weather 

personaiities) on the various aspects of the program. The program was developed using Dallas as 

an example. Since these actions have been fairly successful, the program is now focusing on 

developing workshops and education packets for local school districts and sensitive populations. 

They are also currently establishing a call in phone line for status and program information. 

I 

159 
PROGRAM PROFILE -- HOUSTON-GALVFST'ON. TX 

Important education questions include "what is ozone", "what are the health impacts" and "what 

can individuals do'~. 

Episode Day Actiom Recommended by the Program 

• Use alternative modes of transportation (car/vanpools, transit, etc) instead of driving alone 

• Keep vehicle tuned·up 

• Combine multiple auto trips throughout the day 

• Work from home (telecommute) 

• Avoid refueling until the evening (i.e., after 6 p.m.) 

• Avoid using gasoline powered garden equipmenruntil the evening (i.e. after 6 pm) 

• A void using charcoal lighter fluid 

• A void household maintenance activities (painting) 

Discuss any unique control measures included in the program: nla 

Participation & Incentives 

• Employers 

• General public 

Incentives to Encourage Participalion 

General Public : Transit discounts 

Companies: Public recognition 

Employees: Will occur in next year's program, intangibles, savings. health 

The program will be targeting transit riders in August of next year with discounted fares, and 

increased media coverage on the impacts of transit ridershipr 

Forecasting Pollution Episode Days 

Weather forecaster & Pollution: TNRCC,NWS 

Parameters Examined: n/a 

Criteria to setting forecast day: nla 

Method used to forecast day: n/a 

Accuracy: 800~ (1995) 

Notification Mechanisms 

• Television stations Method of notification : fax 

• Radio stations Method of notiflcation : fax 

• Newspapers Method of notification: fax 

• Employers Method of notification: fax 

• Stationary Sources Method of notifo:ation : fax 

• Schools Method of notifo:ation : . fax 

• HealthCare Method of notification: fax 

• Other Counties Method of notification-. fax 

2 
PROGRAM PROFILE - HOUSTON-GALVESTON. TX 

Television stations mention the alert day in the news reports, in the weather report and in public 

service announcements while newspapers include the iiifonnation in articles and make space for 

announcements. Radio hosts make special announcements and mention the air quality status in 

news reports. Radio hosts also make public service announcements. 

Program Evaluation 

Data Collected: Base survey on education, attitudes and transit ridership 

Other Data Desired: None 

Analysis of Data: TNRCC maintains developing SIP modeling analysis. 

Emission Estimated: n/a 

Emiss reduction per participant: n/a 

Cost per participant: n/a 

Emission Reduction Ratio: n/a 

Main problems or pitfalls encountered dwing the implementation of the program: Program 

initiation delayed due to lack of consensus of goals, and need and design of program 

Parts of the program that have been the most successful: Too early to designate successful 

portion of program; however, high accuracy of practice predicted advisories of program was 

. critical to strength and weight of program in planning stages. 

3 

Ozone Action Days Program (~d 

http://www.truce.st ... ps/ozoneaction.htrr. 

1 of 1 

~ ca Office of Air Quality 

iii w Monitoring Operations 

Ozone Action Days 

The Program 

Address/Phone/Fax. 

mon·ops@smtpgate~tnrcc.state.tx..us 

Help 

June 6, 1996 

The TNRCC has developed an ozone education/awareness campaign called the Ozone Action Days 

Program. This voluntary campaign outlines reasonable actions each participating community can take, 

from local industries to individuals, to reduce ozone pollution. Education and empowerment, not 

regulation, are the key components of the Ozone Action Days Program. The program is designed to be in 

effect during the ozone season, which is April through October. TNRCC staff have coordinated their 

efforts to provide support to local area air care coalitions so that this program may be implemented in the 

metropolitan areas of Texas. 

Forecasting for Ozone Action Days 

Since ozone is not directly emitted, but rather forms as a result of other pollutants "cooking" in hot. 

weather, weatller conditions play a crucial role in ozone formation. An Ozone Action Day is called for a 

metropolitan area participating in the program when TNRCC meteorologists predict that weather 

conditions the following day will be favorable for the formation of high levels of ozone. TNRCC 

meteorologists use a set of criteria developed through the urban airshed model and based on historic 

meteorological data and pollutant background ~~vels to make predictions. 

Proper weather conditions (light winds, heat and sunshine) together with an adequate combination of 

pollutants (nitrogen oxides and vo~e organic compounds), fuel the chemical reaction that produces 

ozone. If conditions are such that the formation of ozone is likely, TNRCC meteorologists contact the 

National Weather Service (NWS) with the information. The NWS broadcasts this across its weather wire. 

When the local coalitions that are participating in the prcgram declare an Ozone Action Day, they notify 

the news media and local government, business and industry. The goal is to notify the public a day in 

advance when conditions are expected to be favorable for high levels of ozone so that individuals, 

businesses and industry can make plans to take action. 

For the 1995 ozone season, high ozone levels were measured on 73 percent ofthe·TNRCC's forecast 

high ozone days. The TNRCC forecasts correctly identified 72 percent of the days where ozone was 

measured above the target levels set for each area in the program. 

TNRCC disclaimer 

Commei>ts regarding Monitoring Operations: monops@smtogate.tnrcc·state.tx.us 

Technical questions regarding the TNRCC Web server: webmaper@smtpgate.tnrcc.swe.tx.us 

http://www.tnrcc.state.tx.us/air/monopslozoneaction.html 

09/17196 10:05:' 

Ozone Information I 1ci; http ://ww, 1. tnrcc .st .•. nops/ozoneinfo.htm 

1of3 

~ :::; Office of Air Quality 

M Monitoring Operations 

Ground-Level Ozone 

Good Ozone and Bad Ozone 

Address/Phone/Fax 

monops@smtpgate. tnrcc.state. tx. us 

Help 

June 6, 1996 

The word "ozone" has prompted a lot of confusion over the past few years. The confusion persists 

because there is in fact good and bad ozone. The ozone layer in the upper atmosphere is essential because 

it filters hannfW ultraviolet radiation from the sun, reducing the amount reaching the earth's surface. On 

the other hand, high accumulations of ozone in the lower atmosphere near ground leVel can be hannful to 

people, animals, crops and other materials. The ozone gas in both the upper and lower atmosphere is the 

same; the difference is that one benefits and one hanns. Ground-level ozone is the most pervasive 

problem in Texas and the nation. 

What is Ozone? 

Ozone is a form of oxygen with three atoms, instead of the usual two atoms. It is a photochemical 

oxidant and, at ground level, is the main component of smog. Ozone is not emitted directly into the air 

but is formed through chemical reactions between natural and man-made emissions of volatile organic 

compounds (VOCs) and nitrogen oxides in the presence of sunlight. These gaseous compounds mix like a 

thin soup in the ambient, or outdoor, air, and when they interact with sunlight, ozone is formed. Sources 

of these pollutants include automobiles, gas-powered motors, refineries, chemical manufacturing plants, 

solvents used in dry cleaners and paint shops, and wherever natural gas, gasoline, diesel fuel, kerosene 

and oil are combusted. 

Ozone pollution is the periodic increase in the concentration of ozone in the ambient air, the natural air 

that surrounds us. It is mainly a daytime problem during summer months because warm temperatures play 

a role in its formation. When temperatures ire high, sunshine is strong, and winds are weak, ozone can 

accumulate to unhealthful levels. · 

Ozone Is a Health Hazard 

The biggest c::oncem with high ozone concentration is the damage it causes to human health, vegetation 

and to many ·common materials we use. 

High concentrations of ozone can cause shortness of breath, coughing, wheezing, headaches, nausea, eye 

and throat μrltation, and lung damage. People who suffer from lung diseases like bronchitis, pneumonia, 

emphysema, asthma and colds have even more trouble bre~g when the air is polluted. These effects 

can be worse in anyone who spends significant periods of time exercising or working outdoors. 

Children often play outside for long periods during the summer. Their lungs are still developing, and they 

breathe more rapidly and inhale more air pollution per pound of body weight than adults. On days when 

ozone levels are high, these factors put children at increased risk for respiratory problems. 

09/17196 , 0:04:4 
\~b 

Ozone lnformatjon http://www.tnrcc.st ... nops/ozoneinfo.h 

Adults breathe more than 10,000 times each day. During exercise or strenuous work, we breathe more 

often and draw air more deeply into the lungs. When we exercise heavily, we may increase our intake of 

air by as much as 10 times our level at rest. The interaction between air pollution and exercise is so strong 

that health scientists typically use exercising volunteers in their research. 

Materials damaged by ozone include rubber, nylon, plastics, dyes and paints. Also, many food crops are 

damaged by low-lying ozone each year. 

Ozone levels are considered by the U. S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to be "unhealthful" 

when they exceed the National Ambient Air Quality Standard of 120 parts per billion (ppb}. When a 

single monitoring site has exceeded this standard on more than three days in three years, the EPA 

classifies the surrounding county or metropolitan area as not attaining the ozone standard, or 

"nonattainment" for ozone. 

Status of Tens Metropolitan Areas 

o Houston/Galveston/Brazoria - Nonattainment 

o Dallas/Ft. Worth - Nonattainment 

a El Paso - Nonattainment 

O Beaumont/Port Arthur - Nonattainment 

a Austin - Attainment 

a San Antonio - Attainment 

o Corpus Christi - Attainment 

O Tyler/Longview/Marshall- Attainment (status pending due to recent exceedances) 

What Can We Do About It! 

TNRCC has developed the Ozone Action Day Pmgram to help the citizens of Texas understand the 

ozone problem and do their part in preventii\g ozone formation. The agency forecasts days when 

conditions are likely to be favorable for ozone formation. The program asks people to take voluntary 

action on those dajs to prevent exceedances of the National Ambient Air Qyality Standard for ozone. 

Since automobiles are the main culprit in ozone formation in Texas, we should try to limit our driving on 

Ozone Action Days. Actions like car pooling, riding the bus, consolidating emnds, riding a bicycle and 

avoiding rush hour add up to less pollution. 

There are a number of Voluntmy steJIS that individuals, businesses and industry can take to limit their 

pollutant emissions on Ozone Action Days. 

Ozone Readings in Tens 

TNRCC collects daily ozone measurements at several monitors across the state. Peak ozone 

concentrations found yesterday in the state's major metropolitan areas are available as well as daily peaks 

since Jan. 1, 1996. 1"bese concentrations are used in determining if the National Ambient Air Quality 

Standarcl has been exceeded. 

The Pollution Standard Index (PSI) is derived from air pollutant measurements and is used to determine a 

PSI rating of"Good," "Moderate" or "Unhealthful." Because ozone measurements are usually higher in 

Texas than tho~ of other air pollutants, the PSI is noniially based on ozone levels. 
Ozone Information 

I <o 1 

http:J/www.tnrcc.st ... 1 ops/ozoneinfo.htn 

3 of 3 

Historical Trend 

Major metropolitan areas of Texas have experienced a steady decline in ozone levels over the past 20 

years due to factors such as the production of reformulated gasoline and better automobile emission 

controls. Levels in 1987 contradicted the overall downward trend as a result of a heat wave present 

during that season. A similar heat wave in 1995 caused ozone levels to be higher than the trend would 

suggest. This is evident from the number of exceedances of the standard in the Tyler/Longview/Marshall 

last year. · 

TNRCC disclaimer 

Comments regarding Monitoring Operations: monops@smtpgate.tnrcc.state.tx.us 

Technical questions regarding the TNRCC Wd:J server. webmaster@smmgate.tnrcc.state.ps.us 

http://www.tnrcc.state.tx.us/air/monops/ozoncinio.html 

09/17196 10:04:4' 

Ozone Query Form 

Office of Air Quality 

Monitoring Operations 

Peak Ozone Levels/Ozone Action Days 

i '·1. 

http:l/www .tnrcc.st ..• ops/query-forr .htrr. 

Address/Phone/Fax 

monops<@.smtpgate.tnrcc.state.tx.us 

Help 

September 17, 1996 

The TNRCC measures ozone in metropolitan areas throughout Texas. The table below lists yesterday's 

(September 16, 1996) peak one-hour ozone concentration and the Pollution Standard Index (PSI) rating 

for each of these areas. These ozone measurements are in parts per billion (ppb). Concentrations of 125 

ppb or higher exceed the National Ambient Air Quality Standard for ozone. Please note that this data has 

not been verified by the TNRCC and may change. This is our most current data, but it is not official until 

it has been certified by our technical staff. This table is updated by noon each weekday. 

The table also provides information about whether an Ozone Action Day has been forecast for those 

areas involved in the 1996 Ozone Action Days Program. Brownsville, Laredo, El Paso and Victoria are 

not involved in the program. 

Metropolitan 

Area -

----------------- Houston-Galveston-Brazoria 

Dallas-Fo~t Worth 

Beaumcnt-Port Arthur 

El Paso-Juarez-Las Cruces 

Austin 

Corpus Christi 

Tyler 

Lonqview-Marshall · 

Victoria 

San Antonio 

Brownsville 

Laredo 

NA• Not Available 

Ozone Query Form 

· Ozone Level 

(9/16/96) (ppb) 

Sl 

73 

48 

29 

59 

42 

59 

60 

42 

70 

17 

46 

PSI 

Ratinq 

Good 

Moderate 

Good 

Good 

Good 

Good 

Good 

Good 

Good 

Moderate 

Good 

Good 

Ozone Action Day 

( 9/18/96) 

No 

No 

No 

Not Applicable 

No 

No 

No 

No 

Not Applicable 

No 

Not Applicable 

Not Applicable 

·You can use the fomi below to retrieve daily peak one-hour ozone concentrations, from yesterday back 

to the beginning of the current year. Please note that this data has not been verified by the TNRCC and 

may change. This is our most current data, but it is not official until it has been certified by our technical 

staff. This information is updated by noon each weekday. 

1 of 2 

Which metropolitan area do you want data for? 

City 

What is the first day you want data for? 

Month 

Day 

09/17/96 10:06:1 
110 

Ozone Query Form http:J/www tnrcc.st ••• ops/Query-form.htr 

What is the last day you want data for? 

Month 

Day 

Would you like the output in a text or tabular format? 

TNRCC disclaimer 

Gomments regarding Monitoring Operations: monops@smmgate.tMiC.stafe.pc.us 

Technical questions regarding the TNRCC Web Server: webmaster@smmgate.tnrcc.state.tx.us 

http://www.um:c.state.tx.us/updated/airlmonopslquezy·form.html 
PROGRAM PROFILE - IND/ANA PROGRAMS 

Episodic Control Program Profile - Indiana Programs 

BASIC INFORMATION 

Program Name: 

Area of Coverage: 

Counties: 

Partners for Clean Air (Four areas; separated by"/") 

Cities: Gary, Hammond, Valparaiso I SouthBend I 

Indianapolis !Louisville 

Lake, Porter, LaPorte/St. Joseph, Elkhart/Marion/ Clark, 

Floyd 

Main Pollutant(s) Targeted: Ozone 

Attainment Status (CO I PM10 I 03):Severe Ozone/Maintenance Ozone/Maintenance 

Ozone /Moderate Ozone 

Implementing Agency: 

Start Date: 

Program Goals (Ranked) 

Program required by law? 

Is the program enforceable? 

Funding and Administration 

1996 Budget: 

IDEM and Illinois EP A/MPO lead with IDEM providing 

forecast/MPO, Chamber of Commerce, local air agency 

with IDEM assistance with forecasting/MPO lead with 

IDEM providing forecasting . 

May 1995 I May 1994 / May 1996 I June 1996 

1. Public Education 

2. Health Benefits 

3. Maintain attainment status of the area 

No 

No 

Funding Source(s): 

IDEM @10,000 State S's/CAAA §105 S's 

SouthBend MPO 

Indianapolis MPO 

Louisville MPO 

350,000/yr for 2 yrs CMAQ 

. 100,000 CMAQ 

100,000/yr for 2 years CMAQ 

# Full-time equivalent staff at the main agency (IDEM only) 

# Full-time equivalent staff at other affiliated agencies 

Public Outreach 

Methods used to inform the public about the program 

.elid Volunteer Imai 

1 full time 

3 full time (May - Sept) 

• 

• 

Provide information to palrlcipating employees through their employers 

Television advertisements 

• Public education booths at community events (2 available displays) 

I 

I li 
\ 1 ~ 

PROGRAM PROFILE·- IND/ANA PROGRA.l,fS 

• Creation and dissemination of public education materials 

• Radio advertisements 

• Workshops (for schools, industry, public) 

• Newspaper advertisements 

• Internet Website (http://www.epa.gov/ARD-RS/ozoneday/ozoneday.htm) 

• Cable TV shows/interviews 

• Writing articles/oped pieces (e.g., Chamber of Commerce, AAA, Detroiter magazine). 

Describe most effective part of public outreach program: n/a 

Episode Day Actions Recommended by the Program 

• A void driving at lunch time (take lunch to school or work) 

• Use alternative modes of transportation (car/van pools, transit, etc) instead of driving alone - There is a special 

rideshare program for ozone action days) 

• Keep vehicle tuned-up 

• Combine multiple auto trips throughout the day 

• Work from home (telecommute) 

• Re-fuel the night before or day after an ozone alert day; wait at least until after 6 pm for re-fueling 

! Change work schedules to avoid the commute 

• Avoid using gasoline-powered garden equipment (lawnmowers, blowers.; etc) 

• Avoid household maintenance activities that produce emissions (painting, degreasing, etc) 

• Postpone fleet refueling until the evening (i.e;, after 6 p.m.). · 

• Use conferencing technologies instead of face to face meetings 

• A void engine idle and jackrabbit stans 

• Keep the gas cap tight or, if lost, replace it. 

• · For multi-car families, drive newer car on ozone alert days 

Participation & Incentives 

• Employers 

• General public 

Incentives to Encourage Participation 

General Public : Free transit is available in Ann Arbor from the transit company 

Companies: Public Recognition 

Employees: Free or discounted transit fares 

Forecasting Pollution Episode Days 

Weather forecaster & Pollution: n/a 

Parameters Examined: n/a 

Criteria to setting forecast day: n/a 

Method used to forecast day: n/a 

Accuracy: n/a 

Notification Mechanisms 

• Television stations 

Radio stations 

· Method of notification : 

• Method of notification : 

2 
l 7 3 

PROGRAM PROF!LE - IND/ANA PROGRAMS 

• Newspapers Method of notification : 

• Participating Employers Method of notification : 

• General Public Method of notification : 

Program Evaluation 

Data Collected: Employers collecting survey data 

Other Data Desired: Monitoring data, participation & awareness data would be nice, but 

considered not cost-effective 

AnaJysis of Data: None 

Emission Estimated: n/a 

Emiss reduction per participant: n/a 

Cost per participant: n/a 

Emission Reduction Ratio: n/a 

Main problems or pitfalls encountered during the implementation of the program: NI A 

Parts of the program that have been the most successful: NI A 

3 
PROGRAM PROF!LE - LONGVIEW. J!ARSHAL. ITLER. TX 

EpisodiC Control Program Profile - Longview, Marshal, Tyler, TX 

BASIC INFORMATION 

Program Name: Northeast Texas Air Care (NETAC) 

Area of Coverage: Longview, Marshal, Tyler, TX 

Main Pollutant(s) Targeted: Ozone 

Attainment Status (CO I PM10 I 03):Attainment- ozone (4 exceed. in '95 ... FAR) 

Implementing Agency: Volunteer effort by local gov., 1NRCC 

Start Date: 1994 

Program Goals (Ranked) I. Best & most effective practice for area (not accepted) 

Program required by law? 

Is the program enforceable? 

2. Economic Benefits 

3. Public Education 

Not yet . 

Stationary Sources may opt. in. 

Funding and Administration 

1996 Budget: $55,000 (NETAC) 

$83,000 (ETCOG) 

Funding Source(s): Legislative Grant,Contributions 

The legislative grant is part of a 2 million dollar study funded by the Texas Legislature to study technical 

issues for the four near nonattainment areas in Texas. 

# Full-time equivalent staff at the mai/t agency 

# Full~time equivalent staff at other affi/iaJed agencies 

Public Outreach 

Methods used to infonn the public about the program 

• Television advertisements 

• Television call-in show 

• Radio advertisements 

• Newspaper advertisements 

• Internet site 

• Workshops (for schools, industry, public:) 

• Public education booths at community events 

• Creation and dissemination of public education marerials 

Elid 

0 

r 

• Provide information to participating employees through their employers 

volunteer ;Imai 

2S 25 

1 

Describe the most effective part of public outreach program: The program has been largely run 

by NET AC which is a coalition of local stationary source and employers,·consequendy a large 

portion of the effort has been focused at employer/employee education which has worked very 

well. A considerable amount of support for the program has developed via word of mouth. 

J 

I t-5 
11~ 

PROGRAM PROFILE - LONGVIEW. MARSHAL. TYLER. rx 

LEDCO, which is a group oflocal governments has worked with TNRCC to develop public 

education material to distribute. 

Episode Day Actions Recommended by the Program 

• Avoid driving at lunch time (take lunch to school or work) 

• Use alternative modes of transportation (car/vanpools, transit, etc) instead of driving alone 

• Keep vehicle tuned-up 

• Combine multiple auto trips throughout the day 

• Avoid refueling until the evening (i.e., after 6 p.m.) 

• Keep travel speeds at speed limit an steady 

• Avoid using gasoline powered garden equipment until the evening (i.e. after 6 pm) 

• Postpone fleet refueling until evening 

• Use conferencing technologies instead of face to face meetings 

• Avoid maintenance activities (Stationary So~) 

• Postpone landscaping activities (Stationary Sources) 

Discuss any unique control meanires included in the program: The program was modeled after 

Dallas and Tulsa, but differs from both programs because of the local distribution of emission 

sources. VOC emissions in are area are heavily biogenic and a significant amount ofNox is 

emitted from local stationary sources. The area is just over NAAQS levels, therefore the focus is 

on getting addition voluntary participation to reduce emissions. 

Participation & Incentives 

• Employers 

• General public 

• Stationary Sources 

Incentives to Encoll1'age Participation 

General Public: None 

Companies: Public recognition· 

Employees: Free or Discounted lunches 

Flexible work schedule 

Preferential parking for car/vanpools 

Forecasting Pollution Episode Days 

Weather forecaster & Pollution: TNRCC 

Parameters Examined: Max temp., pressure, WS, current ozone, precipitation 

Criteria to setting forecast day: n/a . 

Method used to forecast day: n/a 

Accuracy: -50% (>100 ppb) 

2 
Notification Mechanisms 

• Television stations 

• Radio sWions 

• Newspapers --

• Employers 

• Stationary Sources 

• Gas Stations 

PROGRAM PROFILE,- LONGVIEW. MARSHAL. TYLER. TX 

Method of notification : fax 

Method of notification : fax 

Method of notificaJion : fax 

Method of notificaJion : fax 

Method of notificaJion : fax 

Method of notification: fax 

Television stations mention the alert day in the news reports and in the weather report while 

newspapers include the infonnation in articles. Radio hosts make special announcements and 

mention the air quality status in news reports. 

Program Evaluation 

Data Collected: 

Other Data Desired: 

Employers collecting survey data 

Monitoring data, participation & awareness data would be nice, but 

considered not cost-effective 

Analysis of Data: None 

Emission Estimated: n/a 

_ Emiss reduction per participant: n/a 

Cost per participant: n/a 

Emission Reduction Ratio: n/a 

The area is now developing/negotiating a Flexible Attainment Region agreement with EPA. The 

control measures included in the plan are currently classified into one of three areas: ( 1) tangible 

and enforceable (impacts are calculated and included in the AQ plan), (2) tangible and voluntary 

fugitive monitoring, alternative fuel vehicles), and (3) voluntary but positive (TCM, reduction of 

maintenance activities). 

Main problems or pitfalls encountered during the implementation of the program: Surveys are 

not considered important since they do not lower emission. They only make officials feel good. 

Ensuring that the media does not state that the 'sky is falling" is difficult. Educating the public, 

to be prepared for the media blowing it out of proportion, consequently, is also difficult. 

Parts of the program that have been the most successful: Volunteerism and home grown 

attitudes prevail throughout the program implementation and have helped the public perception 

of the program (as truthful rather than the 'party line from Washington'). The program has 

man8ged to convince local industry and officials to open up resources with uncertain funding for 

the program due to a lot of volunteer support. 

117 

Ozone Action Days Program 17~ http://www.tnrcc.st ... ps/ozoneaction.htmi 

1of1 

gl q; Office of Air Quality 

• w Monitoring Operations 

Ozone Action Days 

The Program 

Address/Phone/Fax 

monops@smtpgate.tnrcc.state.tx.us 

Help 

June 6, 1996 

The TNRCC has developed an ozone education/awareness campaign called the Ozone Action Days 

Program. This voluntary campaign outlines reasonable actions each participating community can take, 

from local industries to individuals, to reduce ozone pollution. Education and empowerment, not 

regulation, are the key components of the Ozone Action Days Program. The program is designed to be in 

effect during the ozone season, which is April through October. TNRCC staff have coordinated their 

efforts to provide support to local area air care coalitions so that this program may be implemented in the 

metropolitan areas of Texas. 

Forecasting for Ozone Action Days 

Since ozone is not directly emitted, but rather forms as a result of other pollutants "cooking" in hot 

weather, weather conditions play a crucial role in ozone formation. An Ozone Action Day is called for a 

metropolitan area participating in the program when TNRCC meteorologists predict that weather 

conditions the following day will be favorable for the formation of high levels of ozone. 'INRCC 

meteorologists use a set of criteria developed through the urban airshed model and based on historic 

meteorological data and pollutant background levels to make predictions. 

Proper weather conditions (light winds, heat and sunshine) together with an adequate combination of 

pollutants (nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compounds), fuel the chemical reaction that produces 

ozone. If conditions are such that the fonnation of ozone is likely, 'INRCC meteorologists contact the 

National Weather Service (NWS) with the information. The NWS broadcasts this across its weather wire. 

When the local coalitions that are participating in the program declare an Ozone Action Day, they notify 

the news media and local government, business and industry. The goal is to notify the public a day in 

advance when conditions are expected to be favorable for high levels of ozone so that individuals, · 

businesses and industry can make plans to take action. 

For the 1995 ozone season, high ozone levels were measured on 73 percent of the TNRCC's forecast 

high ozone days. The TNRCC forecasts correctly identified 72 percent of the days where ozone was 

measured above the target levels set for each area in the program. 

TNRCC disclaimer 

Comments regarding Monitoring Operations: monops@smtpQte.tnrcc.state.tx.us 

Technical questions regarding the TNRCC Web server: webmMW@smtpgate.tM:C.state.tx.us 

http://www.tmcc.stue.tx.us/air/monopslozoneaction.html 

09/17 /96 10:05:3! 

Ozone Query Form 

'j' i Office of Air Oualitr 

II Monitoring Operations 

Peak Ozone Levels/Ozone Action Days 

I ~I http://www.tnrcc.st ... opsiQuery·form.htJT 

Address/Phone/Fax 

monops<@smtpgate.tnrcc.state.tx.us 

Help 

September 17, 1996 

The TNRCC measures ozone in metropolitan areas throughout Texas. The table below lists yesterday's 

(September 16, 1996) peak one-hour ozone concentration and the Pollution Standard Index (PSI) rating 

for each of these areas. These ozone measurements are in parts per billion (ppb). Concentrations of 125 

ppb or higher exceed the National Ambient Air Duality Standard for ozone. Please note that this data has 

not been verified by the TNRCC and may change. This is our most current data, but it is not official until 

it has been cenified by our technical staff. This table is updated by noon each weekday. 

The· table also provides information about whether an Ozone Action Day has been forecast for those 

areas involved in the 1996 Ozone Action Days Program. Brownsville, Laredo, El Paso and Victoria are 

not inyolved in the program. 

Metropolitan 

Area 

----------------- Houston-Galveston-Brazoria 

Dallas-Fort Worth 

Beaumont-Port Arthur 

El Paso-Juarez-Las Cruces 

Austin 

Corpus Christi 

Tyler 

Longview-Marshall 

Victoria 

San Antonio 

Brownsville. 

Laredo 

NA• Not Available 

Ozone Query Form 

.Ozone Level 

(9/16/96) (ppb) 

51 

73 

48 

29 

59 

42 

59 

60 

42 

70 

17 

46 

PSI 

Ratinq 

Good 

Moderate 

Good 

Good 

Good 

Good 

Good 

Good 

Good 

Moderate 

Good 

Good 

Ozone Action Day 

(9/18/96) 

No 

No 

No 

Not Applicable 

No 

No 

No 

No 

Not Applicable 

No 

Not Applicable 

Not Applicable 

You can use the form below to retrieve daily peak one-hour ozone concentrations, from yesterday back 

to the beginning of the current year. Please note that this data has not been verified by the TNRCC and 

may change. This is our most current data, but it is not official until it has been certified by our technical 

staff. This information is updated by noon each weekday. 

1of2 

Which metropolitan area do you want data for? 

City 

What is the first day you want data for? 

Month 

Day 

09/17/96 10:06: 
\ '6J. 

Ozone Query Form http://www.tnrcc.st ••• opsJquery-form.n· 

What is the last day you want data for? 

Month 

Day 

Would you like the output in a text or tabular fonnat? 

TNRCC disclaimer 

Comments regarding Monitoring Operations: monops@snupgate.tnn:c.state.tx.us 

Technical questions regarding the TNRCC Web Seiver: webmastcr@sinmgat;.tnrcc,state.tx.us 

http://www.tmcc.state.tx.us/updated/air/monopslquery-form.html 
PROGRAM PROFfLE -MILWAUKEE. WT 

Episodic Control Program Profile - Milwaukee, WI 

BASIC INFORMATION 

Program Name: 

Area of Coverage: 

Lake Michigan Ozone Action! Program 

Milwaykee, Racine, Kenosha, Waukesha, Ozaukee, 

and Washington Counties 

Main Pollutant(s) Targeted: Ozone 

Attainment Status (CO I PM10 I 03): Severe nonattainment (03) 

Implementing Agency: Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources 

Start Date: 1995 

Program Goals (Ranked) 1. To maintain the attainment status of the area 

Program required by law? 

Is the program enforceable? 

Funding and Administration 

2. To attain air quality standards 

3. Public education 

No 

Yes 

1996 Budget: $35,000 (for 1995 & 1996) Funding Source(s): !STEA (CMAQ) 

# Full-time equivalent staff at the main agency 

# Full-time equivalent staff at other affiliated agencies 

Public Outreach 

Methods used to. inform the public about the program 

• Public education booths at community evems 

• Creation and dissemination of public education materials 

faid 

s 

2 

• Provide information to participating employees through their employers 

• TV and radio weather announcements 

• Department of Transportation electronic highway signs 

Describe most effective part of public outreach program: n/a 

Episode Day Actions Recommended by the Program 

volunteer ilta1 

s 

2 

A void driving at lunch time (take lunch to schoC>l or work) 

Use alternative modes of transpOttation ( car/vanpools. transit, etc) instead of driving alone • 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

Keep vehicle tuned-up 

Combine multiple auto trips throughout the day 

Work from home (telecommute) 

Avoid refueling until the evening (i.e., after 6 p.m.) 

1 

133 
.PROGRAM PROF!LE -MILWAUKEE. WT 

• Keep boats and lawn equipment maintained 

• Avoid using gasoline-powered garden equipment (lawnmowers, blowers, etc) 

• A void using charcoal lighter fluid 

• Avoid household maintenance activities that produce emissions (painting, degreasing, etc) 

• Postpone fleet refueling until evening (companies) 

• Reduce high-emitting production activities (Stationary Sources) 

• Postpone landscaping activities (Stationary Sources) 

Discuss any unique control measures included in the program: nla 

Participation & Incentives 

• 330 Employers (including stationary SOurteS) 

• 80 Stationary SourteS 

• General public 

Incentives to Encourage Participation 

General Public : Transit discounts. Free transit 

Companies: Public recognition 

Employees: Free or discounted transit fares 

Free or discounted lunches 

Flexible work schedules 

Preferential parking for car/vanpools 

Guaranteed emergency ride home for employees who car/vanpool/transit 

'Dress casual days' for those who carpool or use transit 

Forecasting Pollution Episode Days 

Weather forecaster & Pollution: 

Parameters Exmnined: 

Criteria to setting forecast day: 

Method used to forecast day: 

Accuracy: 

• Television stations 

• Radio stations .. Newspapers 

• Participating Stationary Sources 

• Employers 

• Stationary Sources 

• State Agencies 

• Governor's Office 

Lake Michigan Air Directors Consortium (LADCO) 

Temperatures, surface frontal positions. previous day's 

ozone values 

n/a 

Meteorological intuition is used 

No formal data on accuracy is kept 

Method of notification : fax 

Method of notification : fax 

Method of notification : fax 

Method of notification : fax 

Method of notification: fax 

Method of notification: fax 

Method of notification : phone 

Method of notification : phone 

2 
PROGRAM PROFILE -MILWAUKEE. WT 

Television stations occasionally mention ili'e alert day. in the news reports and the weather report 

while newspapers sometimes mention them in articles. Radio station DJ's sometimes mention 

them during the weather forecasts or in regular discussion. 

Program Evaluation 

Data Collected: Employers, stationary sourc~ & companies which use non-road engines 

provided participation information. 

Other Data Desired: Yes, data we can quantify • recording and reporting participation data 

may be seen as too burdensome. 

Analysis of Data: · No 

Emission Estimated: n/a 

Emiss reduction per participant n/a 

Cost per participant: n/a 

Emission Reduction Ratio: n/a 

Main problems or pitfalls encountered during the implementation of the program: 

• There was some initial bad press when the media .. caught" local governments and school 

districts mowing the lawn, for example on an Ozone Action Day. We needed to do more 

education that these actions are voluntary, not required. It seems to have worked. 

• We woula like guidance from EPA on how to quantify. The surveys can give us 

participation - it would help if EPA had numbers that could be used nationally to make some 

valid reduction measures (i.e., lawn mowers, boat engines, cars/hr VOC emissions). 

Parts of the program that have been the most successful: 

• Voluntary - companies and citizens have responded favorably to having choices. 

• Public education- Its the first time we had tremendous recognition that individual actions 

affect air quality. 

• Employer response and communication has improved. 

• More recognition of ozone as an air quality I economic I health issue for Southeast Wisconsin 

• Excellent support from National Weather Service and TV meteorologists- confirmation of 

our science-based information. 

3 

105 

.\lfilwaukee Area Ozone Action Day lnformacion I 3 7 

t tp://www .epa.gov1ARD-R5/ozoneday:wioad.hor. 

l of2 

Milwaukee Area Ozone Action Day Information 

LAKE MICWGAN OZONE ACTION! DAYS 

The Problem. 

Ozone high in the stratosphere protects us from dangerous sunlight. But ozone neal' the groun~ where 

we breathe, is a hannful pollutant which causes hwnan health problems, especially for childre~ the 

elderly and those who suffer from respiratory ailments. Ground-level ozone forms when pollutants 

released from cars, factories, boats, lawn equipment and other products used at home "bake" in the hot, 

summer sun. 

Cooperating with our neighbors. 

Currently, ozone pollution exceeds public health standards in the southern Lake Michigan region. Many 

programs called for by the federal Clean Air Act are in place to improve the region's air quality. To 

continue reducing ozone and to minimize the need for additional clean-air regulations, Wisconsin, 

Illinois, Indiana and Michigan are joining together in a voluntary effort called Lake Michigan Ozone 

Action! Days. 

How it works. 

When ozone is predicted to reach unhealthy levels, a Lake Michigan Ozone Action! Day will be declared 

in the 4-state Lake Michigan area. On those days, businesses, motorists, homeowners and others are 

being asked to cut back on the activities that cause ozone. Listen and watch for ozone announcements on 

radio and tele"ision weather broadcasts throughout the summer. 

What can you do? 

Together we can make a difference if everyone +akes action on Lake Michigan Ozone Action! Days. Just 

by delaying certain activities until evening, we can reduce the number of ozone-forming p<?llutants that 

bake in the hot, daytime sun. Here are some steps you can take that will help. 

• Postpone mowing your lawn. 

• Fill your car's gas tank in the evening. 

• Delay using your motor boat until late afternoon or evening. 

• A void using charcoal lighter fluid to start your grill 

• Carpool, bus, walk or bike to work. 

• Wisconsin Department of Transportation's RIDES HARE Program matches people interested in 

joining a car or vanpool. 

Call 1-800-4SS-POOL. 

Everyday Actions 

Here are some things you can do everyday to help keep ozone levels down. 

• Don't top off your gas tank. 

• Keep vehicles, boats, and lawn equipment well ~tained. 

03/31/97 14:41:2<: 
\l~ 

~ilwaukee Area Ozone Action Day fnfonnation http://www.epa.gov/ ARD-RSiozoneday/wioad.l.. 

• Combine trips for business, errands and recreation whenever possible. 

For Daily Air Quality Report: 

1-800-242-4 727 

For More Information: 

1-800-326-94 72 

Publication # PUBL-AM-160 95 

"" l"t 1 ln""f t A. A 1 .-
PROGRAM PROF!LE - ,VORTHWEST WA 

Episodic Control Program Profile - Northwest WA 

BASIC INFORMATION 

Program Name: Wood Smoke Curtailment Program 

i\rea of Coverage: Islan~ Skagit and Whatcom Counties, WA 

Main Pollutant(s) Targeted: PM10 

Attainment Status (CO I PM10 I 0 3): Attainment for all 

Implementing Agency: Northwest Air Pollution Control Authority 

(NWAPA) 

Start Date: 1992 

Program Goals (Ranked) 1. Health benefits 

2. Public education 

Program required by law? 

Is the program enforceable? 

3. Economic benefits to the area of staying in attainment 

Yes (RCW 70.94.450, RCW 70.94.483) 

Yes 

Funding and Administration 

1996 Budget: $22,560 Funding Source(s): Washington State Dept of 

Ecology 

# Fuli-time equivalent staff at the main agency 

# Full-time equivalent staff at other affiliated agencies 

Public Outreach 

Methods used to inform the public about the program 

• Television advertisemenis. 

• Radio advertisements 

• Newspaper advertisements 

• Billboard advertisements 

• (ntemet web site 

• Workshops (for schools, industry, public) 

• Public education booths at community events 

• Creation and dissemination of public education materials 

• Violators are given written marerial and sent a video 

Episode Day Actions Recommended by the Prolra.m 

faid. 

o.s 

Yolumeer Imai 

o.s 

0 

• A void the use of wood stoves and fireplaces 

• Minimize smoke when burning wood (by burning dry clean wood, burning small hot fires, 

and by giving the fire lots of air) - if wood beat is the sole source of heat. 

. 1. 
PROGRAM PROFILE -- NORTHWEST WA 

Participation & Incentives 

• General public 

Incentives to Encourage Participation 

General Public: Cleaner air 

Forecasting Pollution Episode Days 

Weather forecaster & Pollution: 

Parameters Examined: 

Criteria to setting forecast day: 

Method used to forecast day: 

Accuracy: 

Notification Mechanisms 

NOAA & WA Dept of Ecology; NW AP A 

PM10 levels and weather forecast 

PM10 threshold values established by law 

Weather forecasts from WA Dept. Ecology I NOAA 

Not Available. 

• Television stations Method of notification: fax. phone 

• Radio stations Method of notification : fax. phone 

• Newspapers · Method of notification : fax. phone 

• Voicemail messages on bum ban hotJines 

Television stations mention the alert day in the news reports and the weather report in addition to 

broadcasting a public service announcement. Newspapers print special announcements and 

articles to notify the public of an episode day. Radio stations all air bum ban information at 

regular times during wood heat season. Radio hosts make announcement on pollution episode 

days and mention it in the news report. 

Program Evaluation 

Data Collected: 

Other Data Desired: 

Analysis of Data: 

Emission Estimated: 

Emiss reduction per participant: 

Cost per participant: 

Emission Reduction Ratio:. 

Wood stove smoke complaint data and inspector 

surveiJJance data. 

How wOod smoke impacts visibility y~ . 

No 

No 

No 

No 

Main problems or pitfalls encountered during the implementation of the program: It iS difficult 

to interpret the meaning of the wood stove smoke complaint data that has been collected. 

Parts of the program that have been the most silccessfal: The program is successfully educating 

the public about cleaner bmning practices and about where they call if they are having problems. 

Also, the number of woodsmoke complaints have decreased. · 

2 
Episodic Control Program Profile-Olympia, WA 

BASIC INFORMATION 

Program Name: 

Area of Coverage: 

Main Pollutant(s) Targeted: 

Attainment Status (COIPM1o/03): 

Implementing Agency: 

Stan Date: 

Program Goals (Ranked) 

Program required by law? 

Is the program enforceable? 

Funding and Administration 

1996 Budget: $30,000 

# Full-time equivalent staff at the main agency 

Impaired Air Quality Curtailment 

Olympia, Lacey, Tumwater, WA 

PM10 

Moderate- PM10 

Olympia Air Pollution Control Authority 

November. 1988 

1. Attain AQ standards 

2. Maintain AQ standards 

3. Health Benefits 

Yes (WAC 173-433) 

Yes (in SIP for Thurston County) 

Funding Source(s): WDOE, fee on sale of wood 

stoves 

fm 

1 

Volunteer Total 

0 1 

# Full-time equivalent staff at other affiliated agencies 

Public Outreach 

Methods used to inform the public about the program 

• Radio advertisements 

• Newspaper advertisements 

• Internet web site (http:J.lwww.wln.com/~) 

• Workshops (for school. iodusUy, the public) 

• Creation and dissenrimrion of public education materials 

• Supplemental education program 

• Stove remowl projects 

Describe most effective part of public outreach program: The outreach program is constantly 

evolving, but tends to be focused more at specific groups than at the general public. They have 

gotten a lot of response from specific programs like the stove changeout program and seem to get 

a bit more response/requests for information with newspaper articles and advertisements. 

I 

! 91 
PROGRAM PROF!LE--Ol'/UP!A. WA 

Episode Day Actions Recommended by the Program 

• Refrain from burning until ban is lifted 

Disctiss any unique control measures included in the program: The bum bans are implemented in 

two stages with a Stage I Alert allowing burning of certified and pellet stoves and exemptions 

given for residences without an adequate heat source. During a Stage II, only residences with the 

written inadequate heat source exemption can bum. A fine of $50 is given for a first time 

violation with $25 of that fine in suspense until another ticket is given. The fine for a second 

violation is $100-$1 SO; however, no second violations have ever been given. 

Participation & Incentives 

• General public 

Incentives to Encourage Participation 

General Public : Interest free loans & cash incentives for replacement of non-EPA certified stoves 

Companies: NI A 

Employees: NIA 

They did reeeive a lot of interest for the cash incentive program and replaced 143 stoves at s 100 

per stove. They received a special grant of$30,000 to implement this program and the interest 

free loan program; however, the second program, which required much more significant funds per 

~ousehold, had a much more limited impact. 

' 

Forecasting Pollution Episode Days 

Weather forecaster & Pollution: 

Parameters Examined: I 

Criteria .to setting forecast day: 

Method used to forecast day: 

Accuracy: · 

Notification Mechanisms 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

Television stations 

Radio stations 

Newspapers 

Local tire districts 

PSAPCA 

NWS&WDOE 

PM10 concentration (TEOM or Hi-Vol) & air stagnation 

conditions 

State.I (75 uglm3), State II (105 ug/m3) 

Based on meteorological intuition 

PM10 monitoring data is accurate~ however, 

meteorological predictions can be somewhat poor due to 

. sudden changes in weather 

Method of notification: fax/phone 

Method of notification: fax/phone 

Method o/notiflcation: fax/phone 

Method of notification : fax/phone 

Method of notification: fax/phone 
PROGRAAf PROFlLE-OlP.vfP!A. W:-l 

Television stations mention the alert day in the weather report; however, coverage is intermittent. 

Newspapers have written anicles about the program and radio public hosts have made 

announcements and mentioned the alert status in the news report. 

Program Evaluation 

Data Collected: Woodstove compliance studyf92-93). 

Other Data Desired: 

Analysis of Data: No 

Emission Estimated: n/a 

Emiss reduction per participant: ilia 

Cost per participant: n/a 

Emission Reduction Ratio: n/a . 

Originally estimated 70% reduction in emissions of PM10 during impaired air episodes. A 

compliance study was conducted in 1993 which used infrared viewing devices to:detennine 

whether people were burning wood and swveys on sixteen separate evenings during both . 

curtailment and noncurtailment periods. Subareas were chosen to participate in the survey.based 

on ( l) the variety of socioeconomic settings and ages of the homes. (2) high ratio of · 

stack/chimneys to homes. (3) proximity to predicted high PMto concentrations and (4) 

accessibility for surveying. The surveys indicated ~ the compliance rate was 78% with a 34% 

reduction in the number of hot stacks during ban periods. The results of this study have been 

examined for use in estimating woodbuming PMto emissions for the area. 

OAPCA would now like to conduct additional surveys to determine (1) public knowledge about the·' 

program, (2) the types of devices being used and the percentage of each. and (3) the economics of burning. \ . 

' ' 

Main problems or pitfalls encountered during the implementation of the program: 

• Coordination with newspapers has been difficult since their publishing deadlines do not alJow 

for timely notification. · ' 

• The agencies' low profile and public confusion/ignorance of the r~ons have been 

problems and have made it difficult to track/evaluate the public's compliance with the 

regulations. 

c 

I 

• Sudden changes in weather conditions have contributed to over or under prediction of ban 

days. 

Parts of the program that have been ~ most successful: Aggressive enforcement and good 

coverage/cooperation by local media have resulted in a high level of public awareness of the 

program. 

Noteworthy aspects of the program: Emissions from woodsmoke are the single largest 

contributor to the PM10 emissions in Thurston County, so the OAPCA has made a significant 

effort to quantify. emissions and the impact of the program. The program is a mandatory 

program; however, exceptions for homes with wood as the sole source of heating and low income 

homes exist and monetary incentives to remove older stoves are available. 

3 

http://www.wln.comJ·oapca/john.h .. :nJ 

11 ::> 

http://www. wln.comJ· oapcaijohn.htm 

1of1 

~IFr IF"C>LL~"TIC>.,..., 

, CONTROL. AUTHORITY 

OAPCA Woodstove Education and Enforcemen't Program 

Approximately half the homes in the greater Olympic Peninsula arid Coastal area ofWashington have 

some type of wood burning heating device, ranging from wood stoves·to fireplaces. There is an 

increasing body of scientific evidence that associates part icufate matter pollution from wood stoves with 

a variety of health impacts. The very young, the elderly and people who suffer from circulatory and 

respiratory illnesses are among those most severely impacted. 

In 1987 the Olympia, Lacey and Tumwater urban area was detennined to be in violation of federal air 

quality standards for particulate matter (PMlO). Since that time a variety of State and Local Woodstove 

Regulations have be en adopted to help minimize the impact of wood stove emissions on public health. 

When Monitoring data indicate that pollution levels are rising, OAPCA may declare a Bum Ban which 

restricts certain burning a ctivities in specific areas. 

Those among us who rely on our wood stoves for heat, or otherwise enjoy the use of wood burning · 

appliances or fireplaces, can do several things to minimize the impact of our burning activities on our 

neighbors. 

EASY STEPS TO SMART WOOD HEATING 

o Bum only clean, untreated wood. 

o Use only dry, properly seasoned wood. 

o For complete combustion, give your fire plenty of air. 

o Check out your chimney - lots of smoke means your fire needs air. . 

o Be aware of current burning conditions. During stagnant periods, a Bum Ban may be in effect. 

\ 

FOR MORE INFORMATION 

o Contact John Kelly at 360-438-8768 ext 109 (in WaShington State 1-800422-5623 ext 109). You can 

also leave an E-Mail message at OAfCA@wtn.com . · o Washington State Department of Ecology Wood Smoke Information Line (in Washington State) 

1-800-523-4636 

o Washington State Energy Office Hotline 1-800-962-9731 

Return to OAPCA' s homm>age 

09/17/96 09:02:, 

http://www.wln.com/·oapca/ban.html I l I 

http://www.win.com/• oapc:aiban.htm 

1 of 2 

f .AllR! F><>L.L.llJ-rlC> ...... 

! CONTROL AUTHORITY 

Current Burn Ban Information 

INDOOR BURNING 

During periods of sta~ant air, when the measured level of pollution builds up, it may be necessary for 

OAPCA o~ the Washington Sta~e ;Department of Ecology to declare burn bans in certain geographic 

areas. Dunng a bum ban, certa m indoor and outdoor burning activities are temporarily restricted 

Historically, OAPCA bum bans have been restricted to Thurston County. · 

OUTDOOR BURNING 

There is a permanent outdoor bum ban in the cities of Olympia, Lacey and Tumwater. For Outdoor 

burning information in other areas in OAPCA's jurisdiction contact your local Fire department. 

For up to date bum ban information call OAPCA at: 

(360)438-8768 

1-800-422-5623 in Washington State 

Or listen to one of the following radio stations in the Olympia-Shelton area: 

D WPBXAM530 

D KAOSFM89.3 

o KXXO FM 96.1 

o KMASAM830 

D KGY AM 1240 

FIRST STAGE ~URN BAN 

DURING A STAGE 1 BURN BAN YOU MAY NOT BURN WOOD IN YOUR W00DSTO~ 

INSERT OR. FIREPLACE UNLESS ONE OF THE FOLLOWING STATEMENTS IS TRUE: 

O You have a certified stove. 

o You have a pellet stove. 

o Wood is your only adequate source of heat. 

o You have an economic or medical exempti~n from OAPCA 

If the ban is going to be lifted, this decision will be made at either 10:00 AM or 2:30 PM, depending o_n 

conditio~ and announced on our phone system's recorded messages and conveyed to the radio stations 

listed above. To find out if your woodstove is certified, or to apply for an exemption to operate your 

stove during a bum ban, call OAPCA at (360)438-8768, ext. 109. 

SECOND STAGE BURN BAN 

DURING A STAGE 2 BURN BAN, YOU MAY NOT BURN WOOD IN YOUR WOODSTO~ 

INSERT OR. FIREPLACE, INCLUDING CERTIFIED STOVES AND PELLET STOVES, UNLESS 

ONE OF THE FOLLOWING STATEMENTS IS TRUE: 

09/17 /96 09:02:4 
(~~ 

http://www.wln.com/·.,1apca/ban.html http://www.wln.comr oapca/ban.; .. 

o Wood is your only adequate source of heat. 

D You have an economic or medical exemption from OAPCA 

Return to OAPCA' s home page 
http://www.wln.comroapc:a/jpw.htm.I I '1 '1 

http://www. wln.coml • oapcaJjpw .htm 

1of1 

~IF'I! F"c::>LLLJ-rl<:>r... 

qONTROL AUTHORITY 

OAPCA AIR MONITORING PROGRAM 

OAPCA works cooperatively with the Washington State Department OfEcology (Ecology) and the 

United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to measure criteria ambient air pollutants, 

meteorological parameters, and other air related parameters. OAPCA is a member of the Washington 

State Air Monitoring Network Advisory Committee which includes representatives of Ecology, EPA, and 

Washington State Local Air Pollution Control Agencies. The committee makes recommendations to 

Ecology management regar ding air monitoring programs including ambient air monitoring site locations. 

OAPCA currently operates and maintains air monitoring equipment for measurement of the following US 

EPA criteria pollutants: PMIO Particulates (PMIO); Sulfur Dioxide (S02), and Carbon Monoxide (CO). 

OAPCA and Ecology operate and maintain meteorologic al sensors (wind speed, wind direction, and 

temperature) and nephelometers (a device that continuously measures fine particulates an~ visibility). 

Past and present ambient air monitoring equipment operated in OAPCA region: 

o Clallam County: Total Suspended Particulates (TSP) samplers, PMIO samplers, S02 monitors, 

Ozone monitor, Nephelometers, and meteorological sensors. 

o Grays Harbor County: TSP samplers, PMlO samplers, S02 monitors, CO bag samplers and 

meteorological sensors. 

o Jefferson County: TSP samplers, PMIO samplers, and a Nephelometer. 

o Mason County: TSP sampler, PMIO samplers, and a Nephelometer. 

o Pacific County: TSP samplers, ~d a PMlO sampler. 

o Thurston County: TSP samplers, PMIO samplers (including a Tapered Element Oscillating 

Microbalance (TEOM) which measures PMlO directly and in real time), CO monitors, 

Nephelometers, and meteorological sensors. 

Most of the data generated from these monitors has been published by Ecology in their Air Quality 

Program Annual Repon which contains data for Washington State. 

You can also leave an E-Mail message for run Werner, OAPCA's Monitoring Technician, at 

OAPCA@wln.com 

Return to OAfCA' s homcmage 

09/17 /96 09:03:: 
a._cu~----
PROGR/M PROFTLE-PHILADELPHL4. PA/NJIDE,MD 

Episodic Control Program Profile-Philadelphia, PA/NJ/DE/MD 

BASIC INFORMATION 

Program Name: 

Area of Coverage: 

Main Pollutant(s) Targeted: 

Attainment Status (CO/PMI0/03): 

Ozone Action 

Philadelphia Nonattainment Area 

Ozone 

Severe Nonattainment -Ozone 

Implementing Agency: 

Start Date: 

Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission (DVRPC) 

May 20, 1996 

Program Goals (Ranked) 

Program required by law? 

ls the program enforceable? 

I. Public Education 

2. Health Benefits 

3. To Attain Air Quality Standards 

No 

No 

Funding and Administration 

1996 Budget: $136,500 Funding Source(s): ISTENCMAQ/Private 

Donation 

# Full-time equivalent staff at the main agency 

# Full-time equivalent staff at other affiliated agencies 

Public Outreach 

Methods.used to infonn the public about the program 

• Internet web site (www.h"bertym:t.org:80/-dvrpc:/ozone.html) 

• Creation and dissemination of public educatio1l materials 

fm 

2.5 

0 

• Provide information to puticipating employees through their employers 

Describe the most effective part of the public outreach program: n/a 

Episode Day Actions Recommended by tbe Program 

Volunteer 

0 

0 

Total 

2.5 

0 

• 

• 

Use alternative modes of transpOnation ( carlvanpools. transit, etc.) instead of driving alone 

Keep vehicle tunedup 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

Combine multiple auto trips throughout the day 

Avoid refueling until the evening (i.e., after 6 p.m.) 

Avoid using gasoline powered garden equipmmt (JaWIUDOWCl'S, blowers. etc:.) (Area Sources) 

Avoid using charcoal lighter fluid (Area Sources) 

Avoid household maintenance activities that produce emissions.(painting, degreasing, etc.) (Area Sources) 

Postpone fleet refueling until the evening (Companies) 
PROGRAM PROF1LE-PHILlDEUHL4. P AINJ1VEiMD 

Discuss any unique control measures included in the program: An additional element of the 

Philadelphia program is TransitChek, a commuter voucher program whereby employers can give 

employees money toward commuting via transit or vanpools. The subsidy is in the form of a 

check, which employers can give monthly or quarterly, as a reward or an incentive. The program 

is tax-deductible for the employer and exempt from most payroll taxes. Federal tax laws allow 

employers to give up to $60 a month per employee tax-free. Checks may be purchased by 

employer in amounts of $1 S, $30 and $60. Companies can call the TransitChek team via a 1-800 

number and ask questions concerning the program. 

Participation & Incentives 

• Employers 

• General Public 

Incentives to Encourage Participation 

General Public:None 

Companies: Public Recognition . 

Employees: Flexible work schedules 

Free or Diseounted Transit Fares (TransitChek) 

Forecasting Pollution Episode Days · 

Weather forecaster & Pollution: University of MD Department of Meteorology 

Parameters Examined: Forec,ast algorithms based on historical climatology and 

ozone' monitoring site data. The algorithms are augmented 

by real time.data and forecaster expertise. 

Criteria to setting forecast day: A coding' system is used to forecast ozone levels: Code 

Green (gOod air quality) 0-62 ppb, Code Yellow (moderate 

air quality) 63-109 ppb, Code Orange (approaching 

unhealthful air quality) 110-124 ppb, and Code Red 

(unhealthful air quality) 125 ppb or greater. 

Method used to forecast day: 

Accuracy: 

Notification Mechanisms 

• 

• 

• 

• 

Television stations 

Radio stations 

Newspapers 

Employers 

If the Univbty of Maryland forecast is Code Orange or 

Red, PA and· N~ DEP forecasters are consulted and a 

consensus foredist is made. 

Forecasters predicted the correct range every day but 

once in the first ~onth of forecasting. 

Method ofnotificalion: fax 

Method of notijicalion : fax 

Method of notijicalion : fax 

Method of notificalion : faX 

Typically, television stations discuss the predicted episode during the weather forecast. 

Newspapers repon the information with the Pollutant Standard Index (PSI) repon and mention it 

2 
•

0

ROGRAM PROF!LE-·.0HILAD£LPHlA. PA./NJ1D£/UD 

in an article .. Radio stations mention the alert in a news report. The firs~ episode prediction was 

the headline story on the all-news radio station. 

Program Evaluation 

Data Collected: No 

Other Data Desired: Baseline public knowledge 

Analysis of Oat.a: No 

Emission Estimated: n/a 

Emiss reduction per panicipant: n/a 

Cost per participant: n/a 

Emission Reduction Ratio: n/a 

A survey was conducted in 1995 by the Gallup organization to determine public views regarding 

air quality in the Philadelphia area This survey, while interesting and relevant, is unrelated to the 

Ozone Action Program. 

Main problems or pitfalls encountered during the implementation of the program: They have 

had a great deal of difficulty getting the media interested and involved in the program. Two of the 

local TV stations carry a daily ozone forecast but the other three networks only mention the 

forecast briefly on ozone action days. They have also had problems getting the two major daily 

newspapers to alter their weather page to include the .ozone forecast. Lack of financial support, 

particularly from business partners, has been somewhat of a disappointment. The lack of ozone 

action days, while good for the region's air quality, has not done much for the program's profile. 

Parts of the program that have been the most successful: Forecasting has been very successful 

and participation from the business community has been a positive factor. Local TMA.s have also 

been cooperative and have assisted in dispersing information regarding the program to their 

members. 

Survey Summary 

3 SO individuals were surveyed. 

· Q. On a scale from zero to ten. where a "10" means you feel it is a very big problem and "O" 

means that you feel it is not at all a problem, how much of a problem do you feel air pollution is in 

your city or area? 

There is a problem (7-10 rating) 

In the middle ( 4-6 rating) 

Not a problem (0-3 rating) 

43% 

36% 

21% 

Q. Who do you feel is responsible for reducing air pollution and cleaning. up Philadelphia's air? 

Everyone/each of us 

State government 

Federal government 

Factories or industrial sites 

Automobile manufacturers 

3 

49°/o 

23% 

7% 

3% 

3% 
Cities/communities 

Businesses 

Other 

162 businesses were asked the following queStions: 

PROGRAM PROF7LE-PHILADEU'HIA. PA/NJ1 DE:~{J) 

5% 

3% 

7% 

Q. Who do you feel is responsible for reducing air pollution and cleaning up Philadelphia's air? 

Everyone/each of us 

State government 

Federal government 

Factories or industrial sites 

Automobile manufacturers 

Cities/communitie8 

Businesses 

Other 

42% 

20% 

5% 

13% 

2% 

0% 

18% 

% Who Strongly Agree 

Air pollution c~ have a impact on people's 74% 

health 

Your business is concerned about the quality 47% 

of air in your area 

4 
~u~ 

type_ Document_ Title..: here · http://www.lib ,nyn, .. Ot• dvrpc/ozone.htr 

1'nf1 

The Ozone Action Program 

Greater Philadelphia area residents and businesses are. being asked to help effons to reduce 

ground-level ozone on announced "Ozone Action" days -when ozone is forecasted to be 

high. Listed below are some "fast facts" about ozone and the effon to reduce emissions. 

OZONE 

ACTION 

D Ozone is a noxious fonn of oxygen. Unlike ozone in the stratosphere which protects 

us from ultraviolet radiation. ground-level ozone can cause lung damage. Remember: 

0 

Ozone is good up high, but bad nearby! Elderly individuals. people with existing 

respiratory ailments such as asthma and emphysema. and young children should avoid 

strenuous activity on Ozone Action Days. Even healthy adults exercising or working 

outddors may experience lung problems on high ozone days. 

A Ground-level Ozone Forecast is available every day. The forecast is updated 

Monday through Friday at 1500 EDT and Saturday$, Sundays and Holidays at l 000 

EDT. News media can receive a daily fax of the forecast by requesting one from 

DVRPC. Click on the underlined words for a current forecast until September 10. 

1996. 

D The objective of the Ozone Action program is to decrease the formation of 

ground-level ozone during the sununer. Ground-level ozone fonns when pollutants 

from vehicles. paints and solvents. unburned fuel and industrial sources "bake" in hot. 

sunny weather. 

o The program warns the public about forecasted high ozone days. and asks for 

voluntary actions to reduce emissions of ozone-forming pollutants. (OZONE ACTION 

DAYS). The Ozone Action program is entirely voluntary and depends on everyone to 

share the responsibility. Ozone Action programs are cost-effective and do not require 

new regulations or mandatory actions. 

o founeen counties in Pennsylvania. New Jersey, Delaware and Maryland fonn the 

Philadelphia ozone "nonattainment area" because they do not meet federal air quality 

standards. In the past four years. high ozone days (when concentrations exceed the 

standard) have ranged ftom 7 to a high of 21 in this region. 

o There are a variety of easy ways people can panicipate. such these: 

• Limit daytime driving and combine • When you must drive. try to avoid congested 

errands · periods 

• Ride public transportation or 

carpool to work 

• W allc or ride a bicycle for shon 

trips 

• Refuel your car in the evening 

- and don't top off your tank 

• Avoid prolonged idling and 

jackrabbit starts 

• Maintain your vehicle's emission control 

equipment 

• Postpone the u5e of gasoline-powered 

mowers until evening 

• Avoid lighting your barbeque with staner 

fluid 

• Use latex rather than oil-based paints 

08/13/96 08:47: 
l"\Ql.O 

~ fVl)e _Document_ Title_ here tmg:J/www .liben,,n ... 01· dvrpciozone 

? ,..f ., 

a The program is sponsored by a variety of business, environmental and government 

panners and is managed by the Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission. 

D VRPC also provides assistance to companies and individuals through its Mobility 

Alternatives Program (MAP). Call DVRPC at 215.592.1800 for more information. 

o Questions regardirig the health effects of ozone and actions which can lead to fewer 

emissions and less e*posure can be answered by calling the program's HOTLINE: 

1-800-290-9732. " ' 
PHILADB.PtilA OZONE FORECAST 

J.,._O 

http://www.meto .umd ... vanlph _ozones .htn 

Ozone Action· Partnership 

·Ground-Level 

GREEN 

Ozone Forecast· 

Philadelphia Ozone Nonattainment Area 

=----------August 13. 1996 

Forecast for period: 

=----------August 12.1996. 1400 

Forecast issued: EDT 

Forecast range: CODE GREEN 

08/13196 08:36 
io~ILAOEL.PHIA OZONE FORECAST. tmi>:; :www .meto.umd ... yanJpht _ ozone5. 

., ,., '2 

Forecast Discussion: 

The ozone forecast for Tuesday is unchanged from the 

previous day. In addition to the cool temperatures and 

maritime flow over the region. precipation is forecasted for 

most of the day Tuesday. Ozone will remain in the good range 

(Code Green) for the next 24 hours. 

\ 

Activity to the south~and to the west are the focus areas for 

the next few days. A Surface low, which is supported aloft. 

developed along the st.tionary front to our south. This low is 

moving north torward.the at!antic states bringing with it 

precipatation. The preclpatation will l-- ! during most the day 

tommorow as the low .Moves over Southeastern PA.. The 

persistant rain is the reSult of copious amounts. of moisture 

availible from the pre.(ailing east to southeast winds. There 

will be little if any bre&ks in the clouds Tuesday. and the winds 

will to be from the northeast - east. Therefore. there does not 

appear to be any reason t~ raise ozone levels out of the good 

range for the next 2~ hour$. · 

Long Range Outlook: 

The next round of weather for the Philadelphia area will come 

from the west in the form a surface front (trough) currently in 

· the midwest. As the surfaee low from the south moves away 

from the forecast region. the area will dry considerable. This 

means the surtace front appr,oching from the west will not 

have as much avalible moistute as today, hence. there will not 

be much precipatation in advattce of it. However. we can 

expect the winds to become mo~ southwesterly by Thursday 

as the front gets closer. This moist southwest flow should I 

allow for considerable precipatation associated with the arrival 

of the from on Friday .. With the bQ~ period of drier conditions 

in between the two above mentioned weather systems. may 

see ozone concentrations back up die moderate range (Code 

Yellow). By the end of the week ozoh~ concentrations.will be 

in the good range (Code Green) once ,&gain. 

Piety 

• CODE RED - UNREAL TBFUL 

_J CODE ORANGE - APPROACHING 

UNHEALTHFUL 

:J CODE YELLOW - MOD ERA TE 

=:J CODE GREEN· GOOD 

\ 

12S·ppb or more 

110 to 124 ppb 

63 to 109 ppb 

62 ppb or less 
J,O 9 

PHILADELPHIA OZONE FORECAST httJ>:/ Jw:ww .meto.umd •.. yen/phi_ ozones .htl 

: nf ~ 

Click on the logo at right to link to the home page of the 

Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission and for 

more information on the Ozone Action program. 

Other Helpful WWW Sites: 

Maryland EarthCast:~ 

Weather Forecast and Observation Links:fu'.m 

,fl This forecast was prepared by the Department of Meteorology at the 

University of Maryland College Park, William Ryan. Chief 

Forecaster. Comments to ryan<@niam.umdedu 

08/13196 08:36: 

PHllA.OELPHIA OZONE FORECAST ~ll http://www. wam.umd .... yanlphl - ozones.I 

Ozone Action Partnership 

Ground-Level 

YELLOW Ozone Forecast 

Philadelphia Ozone Nonattainment Area 

----------July 1, 1996 

Forecast for period: ------- ----------JuneJ0.1996.1330 

Forecast issued: EDT 

Forecast range: CODE YELLOW 

1 nf ~ 08/05/96 18:( 
}, \ ~ PHILADEJ..PtilA OZONE FORECAST tmi>:J/www.wam.umd .•.. yeni,.>hl_ozone 

Forecast Discussion: 

The lastest weather sequence has cenainly not worked out as 

expected by either the numerical models or us human 

forecasters. The marine layer that was expected to drift east 

and allow strong heat to build Sunday (forecasted low 90's F) 

stuck around and was joined by precipitation riding down the · 

thickness contours along the warm front associated with the 

next frontal system. The net results was clou~ rain and low 

temperarures. 

The frontal zone will begin sliding · ... 'toss the region Monday 

but will not bring cooler temperatures like you might expect. 

Inst~ temperatures will (finally) rise to 90 F. We have gone 

with slightly lower maximum temperature than the NWS and 

more in line with MOS guidance as the warm upper air temps 

should moderate slightly during the day. 

For ozon~ the main question is the strength of the low level 

inversion. The NGM and (especially) Eta bring in a very 

strong temperature band at 950 mb which will result in a 

strong inversion. The frontal zone as it passes will be weak 

and thus not Icicle off much in the way of convection. Wrth 

these factors in min~ have moved the ozone forecast to the 

upper limit of the yellow range but would not. be surprised if 

the far downwind sites to the SE saw concentrations at 110 

ppbv and above. 

tong Range Outlook: 

Cooler temperatures will lag .the cool front but will be felt by 

Tuesday and it looks like sea5onal (mid-upper 80's F) 

temperatures and moderate ozone levels through the 4th. 

Ryan 

• CODE RED - UNREAL THFUL 

_j CODE ORANGE - APPROACHING 

UNHEALTHFUL 

LJ CODE YELLOW - MODERATE CJ CODE GREEN-GOOD 

Click on the logo at right to link to the home page of the 

Delaware Valley Regional Planning Com111ission and for 

more information on the Ozone Action program. 

Other Helpful WWW Sites: 

Maryland EanhCast:~ 

125 ppb or more 

110 to 124 ppb 

63 to 109 ppb 

62 ppb or less 
PHILAoa..PHIA OZONE FORECAST . ~13 http://www.wam.umd .... yanJi>ht_ozoneSJt 

Weather Forecast and Observation Links:Ryan 

6 This forecast was prepared by the Department of Meteorology at the 

University of Maryland College Park. William Ryan, Chief 

Forecaster. Comments to ryanr@niam.umd.edu . 

08/05/96 18:0 

PHILAC. :LPHIA OZONE FORECAST °' l .) 

htti>:J/www.wam.umd •••• yanlphl_ozone5.hi 

Ozone Action Partnership 

Ground-Level 

YELLOW Ozone F oreca.st 

Philadelphia Ozone Nonattainment Area 

----------July 1, 1996 

Forecast for period: ------- ----------June 30, 1996, 1330 

Forecast issued: EDT 

Forecast range: CODE YELLOW 

1of3 08/05/96 17:45 
~ \Q PHlLADE!.PHlA OZONE FORECAST httl):J/www.wem.umd •••• yanipht_ozone: 

2 of 3 

Forecast Discussion: 

The lastest weather sequence has certainly not worked out as 

expected by either the numerical models or us human 

forecasters. The marine layer that was expected to drift east 

and allow strong heat to build Sunday (forecasted low 90's F) 

stuck around and was joined by precipitation riding down the 

thickness contours along the warm front associated with the 

next frontal system. The net results was cloud, rain and low 

temperatures. 

The frontal zone will begin sliding aC1"0SS the region Monday 

but will not bring cooler temperatur~s like you might expect. 

Instead, temperatures will (finally) rise to 90 F. We have gone 

with slightly lower maximum temperature than the NWS and 

more in line with MOS guidance as the warm upper air temps 

should moderate slightly during the day. 

For ozone, the main question is the strength of the low level 

inversion. The NGM and (especially) Eta bring in a very 

strong temperature band at 950 mb which will result in a 

strong inversion. The frontal zone as it passes will be weak 

and thus not kick ctr much in the way of convection. With 

these factors in mind, have moved the ozone forecast to the 

upper limit of the yeilow range but would not be surprised if 

the far downwind sites to the SE saw concentrations at 110 

ppbv and above. 

Long Range Outloolc: 

Cooler temperatures will lag the cool front but will be felt by 

Tuesday and it looks like seasonal (mid-upper SO's F) . 

temperatures and moderate ozone levels through the 4th. 

Ryan 

• CODE RED - UNHEALTHFUL 

UcoDEORANGE-APPROACBING 

UNHEALTHFUL 

LJ CODE YELLOW - MODERATE 

tJcoDEGREEN-GOOD 

Click on the logo at right to link to the home page of the 

Delaware Valley Regional Plsnning Commission and for 

more information on the Ozone Action program. 

Other Helpful WWW Sites: 

Maryland EarthCast:~ 

l 2S ppb or more 

110 to 124 ppb 

63 to 109 ppb 

62 ppb or less 

081os1gf; ,.,.4~. I 
::..:=== - 1 ·-~-- ·-

PHH.ADELPHIA OZOf E FORECAST 

'Jo.. I 

http:Jlwww.wam.umd .••• yanlphl ozone5.ht 

3 of 3 

. . -

Weather FoNcast and Observation Links:Ryan • _1, 

6 This forecast was prepared by the Depanment of Meteorology at the 

University of Maryland College Park, William Ryan, Chief 

Forecaster. Comments to ryan@niam. umd edu · 

08/05196 17:45: 

PROGRAM PROFlLE-PHQE,VIX AZ (CO) 

Episodic Control Program Profile-Phoenix, AZ (CO) 

BASIC INFORMATION 

Program Name: 

Area of Coverage: 

Main Pollutant(s) Targeted: 

Attainment Status (CO I PMIO I 03): 

Implementing Agency: 

Stan Date: 

Program Goals (Ranked) 

Program required by law? 

Is the program enforceable? 

Funding and Administration 

1996 Budget: $3,500 

#Full-time equivalent staff at the main agency 

Residential Woodbuming Restriction Ordinance 

Program 

Maricopa County, Arizona 

co 

Nonattainment for CO (serious), PMlO (serious), 

and 03 (moderate) 

Maricopa County Environmental Services 

. Department 

1994 

I . Public education 

2. To meet specific emission reduction targets 

3. Health benefits 

Yes (House Bill 2001) 

Yes 

Funding Source(s): Federal funds (Clean Air Act 

Section 1 OS) 

fut 

s 

# Full-time equivalent staff at other affiliated agencies 3 

Volunteer Total 

s 

3 

Public Outreach 

Methods used to inform the public about the program 

• 

• 

• 

.. 

• 

Television advertisementS 

Radio adYe:rtisemeDtl 

Newspaper advertisementS 

Public education booths at community events 

Creation and dis$eminarion of public education materials 

Describe most ejfectille part of public outreach program: n/a 

. I 
PROGRA'vf PROFTLE-PHOE.VLl:: AZ !CO! 

Episode Day Actions Recommended by the Program 

• Use alternative modes of tr3DSP0rtation (car/vanpools. transit. etc.) instead of driving alone 

• Combine multiple auto trips throughout the day 

• Work from home (telecommute) 

• Change work schedules to avoid the commute 

• Avoid the used of wood stoves and fireplaces 

Discuss any unique control measures inc/ut:kd in the program: n/a 

Participation & Incentives 

• General public 

Incentives to Encourage Participation 

General Public : No incentives are being offered. 

Forecasting Pollution Episode Days 

Weather forecaster & Pollution: 

Parameters Examined: 

Criteria to setting forecast day: 

Method used to forecast day: 

Accuracy: 

Notification Mechanisms 

• 

• 

• 

Television stations 

Radio stations 

Newspapers 

NWS, AZ Dept. of Environmental Quality 

history, day of the week, predicted traffic activities 

> 80 PSI + stagnant meteorological conditions 

empirical, algorithm based, meteorological intuition· 

· Data on accuracy are not available. 

Method of notification: fax 

Method of notification: fax 

Method of notification : fax 

Television stations mention the alert day in the weather report while newspapers include it with 

the Pollutant Standard Index (PSI) report. Radio stations make special announcements, included 

it in news stories, and broadcast prerecorded public service announcements: 

Program Evaluation 

Data Collected: 

Other Data Desired: 

Analysis of Data: 

Emission Estimated: 

Emiss reduction per participant: · 

Cost per participant: 

Emission Reduction Ratio: 

Wood and fireplace usage data 

Location of complaints received during a CO high air pollution 

advisory. ' 

No 

o/a 

oJa 

o/a 

Dia 

2 
PROGRAM PROF1LE-PHOE,VIX AZ (COJ 

Main problems or pitfalls encoun~~red during the implementation of the program: 

• Correctly timing the declarati~n of a CO High Air Pollution Advisory has been challenging. 

• Coordinating conversations with the National Weather Service and AZ Dept. of 

Environmental Quality regarding the weather forecasts. 

• Making sure the message is consistent among all the media. 

Parts of the program that have been the most successful: 

• The Clean Air Hotline announces advisories and gives the public air pollution information. 

The Hotline has won two local environmental awards. 

• The Maricopa County phone line that is 1.lSed to announce the advisories is also very effective. 

• Local newspapers have reformatted their weather page to include pollution advisory 

information. 

J 

PROGR4Af PROFIU-PHOENL'(. AZ 101

1 

Episodic Control Program Profile-Phoenix, AZ (03) 

BASIC INFORMATION 

Program Name: 

Area of Coverage: 

Main Pollutant(s) Targeted: 

Attainment Status (CO/PMI0/03): 

Implementing Agency: 

Start Date: 

Program Goals (Ranked) 

Program required by law? 

Is the program enforceable? 

Funding and Administration 

1996 Budget: No special budget 

Ozone High Air Pollution Advisory Program 

Maricopa County, Arizona 

03 

Nonattainment for CO (serious}, PMlO (serious), 

and 03 (moderate) 

Maricopa County Environmental Services 

Department 

1995 

1. Public education 

2. To meet specific emission reduction targets 

3. Health benefits 

No 

No 

Funding Source(s): n/a 

The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) is undertaking a.summertime public 

education effon called the "Ozone Lifestyles Campaign" on a budget ofS250,000 (for fiscal year 

1996). The Maricopa County program has no special budget but it does benefit from the DEQ 

program by using the same educational materials. · 

# Full-time equivalent staff at the main agency · 

# Full-time equivalent staff at other affiliated agenciu 

Public Outreach 

Methods used to infonn the public about the program 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

Television advenisemenls 

Radio advertisements 

N ewspaper advertisements . Billboard advertisements 

Public educ:a!ion booths at community events 

Creation and dissemination of public education materials 

Paid 

s 

3 

• Provide information to participating employees through their employers 

l 

Volunteer Tota1 

s 

3 
PROGRAM PROFTLE-PHOENTX. AZ rOi) 

Describe most effective part of public outreach program: All methods have been effective. The 

most important aspect of the public outreach program has been to maintain a consistent message 

to the general public. 

Episode Day Actions Recommended by the Program 

• Use alternative modes of transportation ( car/vanpools. transit. etc.) instead of driving alone 

• Combine multiple auto trips throughout the day 

• Work from home (telecommute) 

• Avoid refueling until the evening (i.e .• after 6 p.m.) 

• Change work schedules to avoid the commute 

• Avoid using gasoline-powered garden equipment (lawnmowers. blowers. etc.) 

• A void using charcoal lighter fluid 

• Avoid hou5ehold maintenance activities that produce emissions (painting, etc.) 

• Reduce high-emitting production activities (Stationary Sources) 

• Avoid maintenance activities that produce emissions (painting., degreasing etc.) (Stationary Sources) 

Discuss any unique control metJSUl'es inclut.kd in the program: n/a 

Participation & Incentives 

• General public 

• Over 1,000 Companies 

Incentives to Encourage Participation 

General Public: Transit discounts 

Companies: No incentives are being offered 

Forecasting Pollution Episode Days 

Weather forecaster & Pollution: 

Parameters Examined: 

Criteria to setting forecast day: 

Method used to forecast day: 

Accuracy: 

Notification Mechanisms 

• Television stations 

• Radio stations 

• Newspapers 

• Participating Stationary Sources 

• Participating Employers 

NWS, AZ Dept. of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) 

wind s~ humidity, temperature, expected change in 

temperature 

n/a 

empirical, algorithm based, meteorological intuition · 

Ozone is difficult to predict so the accuracy has been 

variable. 

Method of notification : fax 

Method of notification: fax 

Method of notification.: fax 

Method of notification: fax 

Method of notification: fax 

2 
PROGRA.U PROF7LE-PHOENL'(. AZ (01; 

Television stations mention the alert day in the weather report while newspapers include it with 

the Pollutant Standard Index (PSI) report. Radio stations make special announcements included 

it in news stories, and broadcast pre-recorded public service announcements. ' 

Program Evaluation 

Data Collected: 

Other Data Desired: 

Analysis of Data: 

Emission Estimated: 

Emiss reduction per participant: 

Cost per participant: 

Emission Reduction Ratio: 

Employee participation rat ·s (collected through communication 

with participating compames) 

No 

No 

n/a 

n/a 

n/a 

n/a 

Main problems or pitfa/Js'encountered during the implementation of the program: 

• Making sure the message is understandable, accurate, and consistent. 

• Coordinating activities among and with other agencies. 

• Forecasting ozone has been difficult. 

Parts of the program that have been the most successful: 

• A stronger relationship has been established with ADEQ and the National Weather Service 

• Air pollution advisories have been announced over the Maricopa County phone system all 

year long. 

• A "complaint phone line" has been established to make it easier for residents to file an air 

pollution complaint. 

• The agency has experienced a lot more exposure to the public; we are no longer a nebulous 

government agency. The agency has shown itself to be a group of people who care about 

improving the air quality. 

3 

PROGRAM PROFILE - Pf7TSBCRGH. PA 

Episodic Control Program Profile - Pittsburgh, PA 

Basic Information 

Program Name:· Ozone Action Program 

Area of Coverage: Greater Pittsburgh Area 

Main Pollutant(s) Targeted: Ozone 

Attainment Status (CO I PM10 I 03):Moderate nonattainment-ozone 

Implementing Agency: PA Department of Environmental Protection, Petroleum 

Retailers, Auto Repair Association 

Start Date: Spring 1995 

Program Goals (Ranked) 1. Public Education 

2. To Attain Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) 

3. Economic Benefits to the Area of Staying in Attainment 

Health Benefits 

To Maintain the Attainment Status of the Area 

Program required by law? 

Is the program enforceable? 

Funding and Administration 

No 

No 

1996 Budget: $15,000 (+in-kind contributions) Funding Source(s): PA-DEP, 

Partnership contributions 

# Full-time equivalent staff at the main agency 

# Full-time equivalent staff at other affiliated agencies 

Public Outreach 

Methods used to inform the public about the program 

• 

fllil 

2 

0 

volunteer 

0 

0 

• 

• 

Provide information to participating employees through their employers 

Internet web site ( www .dep.stare.pa.us/depldeputate/tieldops/sw/omne/ozoneinfo.han.l) 

Public education booths at community events 

• 

• 

• 

Creation and dissemination of public education materials 

Workshops (for schools, industry, public) 

Education packets to schools 

Describe the most effective part of the public outreach program: n/a 

I 

. Ia1al 

2 

0 
PROGRAM PROFILE -- PIITSBURGH. PA 

Episode Day Actions Recommended by the Program 

• Use alternative modes of transportation ( car/van~ools, transit, etc) instead of driving alone 

• Keep vehicle tuned-up 

• Combine multiple auto trips throughout the day 

• A void refueling until the evening (i.e., after 6 p.m.) 

• Avoid using gasoline-powered garden equipment (lawnmowers, blowers, etc) (Area Source) 

• Avoid using charcoal lighter fluid (Area Source) 

• Avoid household maintenance activities that produce emissions (painting, etc.) (Area Source) 

• Postpone fleet refueling until the evening (Companies) 

• Reduce high-emitting production activities (Stationary Sources) 

• Avoid maintenance activities· painting, degreasing, tank cleaning, etc. (Stationary Sources) 

• Postpone landscaping activities - lawn mowing, tractor & backhoe use, etc. (Stationary Sources) 

• Switch to cleaner burning fuels (Stationary Sources) 

Discuss any unique conl1'ol measured included in the program: 

• Reduce electricaJ consumption through reduced air-conditioning and fuliy backed appliances (General public 

and participating companies) · · 

Participation & Incentives 

• Employers (21 participants in the Ozone Action Partnership) 

• General Public 

• Stationary Sources 

Incentives to Encourage Participation 

General Public: None 

Companies: Public Rec<>gnition 

Employees: Allow flexible work schedules 

Free or discounted transit fares 

Preferential parking for car/vanpools 

Guaranteed emergency rides home for employees who car/vanpool or take 

transit 

Forecasting Pollution Episode Days 

Weather forecaster & pollution: 

Parameters examined: 

PADEP 

Temperature, wind speed, wind direction, cloud cover, percent 

sunshine. wind speed change with respect to height. Also look 

at readings from 4 oz.one monitoring stations in Pittsburgh. 

Criteria to set episode day: An episode day is forecast if oz.one levels are above 100 ppb. 

Method used to forecast episode day: The P ADEP makes a detennination based on the above 

parameters. If ozone levels for the next day are predicted to be 

above 100 ppb, an episode day is called and notification is send 

out via fax to the media and panicipants. No coding system is 

used. 

Notification Mechanisms 

• 

• 

Television stations 

Radio stations 

Method of notification : fax 

Method of notification : fax 

2 
• 

• 

• 

Newspapers 

Participating stationary sources 

Participating Employers 

Method of notificarion : fax 

Method of notificarion: fax 

Method of notijicarion : fax 

PROGRAM.PROFILE - t'ITTSBLRGH. PA 

Forecasted episodes are mentioned in the news report. discussed in the weather forecast, mentioned in a 

news article, and mentioned in radio news reports. Space is also allocated for announcements in 

newspapers. 

Program Evaluation 

Data Collected: n/a 

Analysis of Data: n/a 

Emissions Estimated: n/a 

Emission Reductions per Participant: n/a 

Cost per Participant: n/a 

Emission Reduction Ratio: n/a 

Main problems or pitfalls eneountered during the implementation of the program: Negative 

perception and resistance from the general public on issues concerning air quality. This was 

exacerbated by some negative media about air quality issues. 

Parts of the program that have been the most successful: There has been outstanding 

participation by print and radio media. The program is slowly gaining new partners and is 

growing in tenns of recognition and acceptance. 

3 

Ozone lnfonnation Page 

"'.J • 

t:ttii :J lwww .dep .stat .. .zone. lZoneinfo .htn 

1 of 1 

Ozone Information Page 

O 1996 Ozone Action Day Ozone Summary 

o 1996 Ozone Action Pmgram Launched 

O What is Ground-level Ozone? 

O Background on the Southwest PA Ozone Action Program 

O Facts about the Ozone Action Program 

o Questions and Answers about the Ozone Action Program 

o Ozone Action Tips for Individuals 

o Ozone Action Tips for Loca1 Govemroents 

o Simple Stm;>s to take to prevent ozone pollution 

o Currem Partnership Members 

o A Public Forum on Ground-Level Ozpne April S 1996 

0 Ozone Education 

o 1995 Ozone Excee<iances 

PENNSYLVANIA DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENT AL PROTECTION 

DEP Home I Search I Update I Ask DEP I What's New I Hot Topics 

Last Modified July 11, 1996 

08/05/96 , 6:27: 
Ozone Action Tip1 for lndiv;duals ,;... 0 

http://www.dep.at at •• J ozoneJindvtip1. 

1of1 

PENNSYLVANIA DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION 

-----

Ozone Action Tips for Individuals 

As individuals, we actually have as much direct impact on ozone 1evels as does industry and business. 

This is our chance to make a difference right here at home. These steps are easy - they're inexpensive -

and if we all do our share, they add up. Here are some things that can help on Ozone Action Days: 

a Limit your daytime driving. Consider a car pool or ride the bus to work. For short trips and errands, 

think about riding your bike or wallcing. 

CJ When you drive, try to minimize "cold starts11 by combining trips and errands so the catalytic 

convener on your vehicle remains warm. Most vehicle emissions occur in the first few minutes of 

engine operation, when the converter is cold and inefficient. 

a Avoid jack rabbit starts. They use more fuel than your engine can efficiently bum. . 

a Reduce unnecessacy engine idling by parking your automobile and walking into a building rather 

than using the drive-through lane. · · 

a Refuel carefully. Avoid spilling gasoline, and stop when the pump shuts off automatically. Don't top 

off the tank. 

a Maintain your vehicle according to the manufacturer's engine tune-up and emission control 

standards. The emissions from one poorly maintained car equal that from 25 properly-functioning 

carsl · o Keep tires properly inflated and change the oil on a regular basis. This can improve your vehicle's 

mileage by as much as 1. S percent. 

a Keep your gasoline-powered lawn equipment in top running condition. Since lawn mowers and 

trimmers don't· have catalytic conveners, they put out a lot more pollution than you might think. And 

please postpone mo~ng your lawn on OZONE ACTION DAYS until evening .. Or better yet, relax 

and mow another day! 

o Conserve electricity. Don't overcool your home, and tum off lights and appliances that aren't in use. 

Wash clothes and dishes with full loads. Energy conservation not only helps the environment, but 

saves you money too. 

a Use latex rather than oil-base paints and solvents, and avoid using sprayers. 

a If you don't have an electric or natural gas grill, avoid using charcoal lighter fluids. Use a 11 charcoal 

chimney" instead. 

PENNSYLVANIA DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION 

DEf Home I Search I Ujldate I Ask DEP I What's New I Hot Topics 

Last Modified July 3, 1996 

08/13/96 09:0: 

The 1996 Southwest ... Program Fast Facts 1-vJ 

http://www.dep .stat ... /s"V/ozone/fac~ .i 

1 of 1 

The 1996 Southwest PA Ozone Action Program 

Fast Facts 

D Ozone Action is a program to help prevent the fonnation of ground-level ozone during the summer. 

D The program forecasts potential "high-ozone" days, and asks for voluntary actions to red~ce ozone 

fanning pollutants on those days. 

D Ground-level ozone is a highly concentrated fonn of oxygen. Unlike stratospheric ozone which 

protects us from ultraviolet radiation, ground-level ozone can cause lung damage. 

D Ground-level ozone forms when pollutants from vehicles. paints and solvents, unburned fuel, and 

industrial sources "bake" in hot sunny weather. 

D Elderly individuals, people with existing respiratory ailments such as asthma and emphysema, and 

young children should avoid strenuous exercise on Ozone Action Days. 

D Ozone Action is totally voluntary - the program's success depends on everyone doing their share for 

cleaner air. 

o The program affects seven counties in Southwestern PA, including Allegheny, Annstrong. Beaver, 

Butler. Fayette. Westmoreland and Washington - these counties do not currently meet federal air 

quality standards. 

D Four to 16 high-ozone days are estimated for.the sununer in the region. . 

o This is the first voluntary ozone control program to be implemented in Pennsylvania. 

o Ozone Action is used in 20 other states and metropolitan areas to help achieve and maintain healthv 

air. 

o Ozone Action doesn't. cost much and is an easy way to help reduce pollution. It doesn't require new 

. regulations or mandatory programs. 

o Ozone Action offers a variety of ways for residents and business to participate. 

o Call the Ozone Action Hotline at 1.800.333.7688 for more information. 

DEf Home 1 Search I Update/ AskDEP I What's New I Hot Topics 

Last Modified July 3. 1996 

08/02/96 14:1· 

QUESTIONS AND ANSWE. • .zone Action Program 

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS 

The Southwest PA Ozone Action Program 

PURPOSE OF THE PROGRAM: 

q-.. v I 

httP :J /www.dep.atat .. J1w/ozone/QandA.ht 

1. To help keep Southwest PA in compliance with the EPA's air quality standards 

2. To reduce the need for mandated programs to improve air quality 

3. To educate the public about ground level ozone 

PROGRAM SPONSORS: 

Petroleum Retailers and Auto Repair Association 

Greater Pittsburgh Chamber of Commerce 

Sun Company, Inc. 

Duquesne Light 

Allegheny Power 

Pennsylvania Environmental Council 

Southwestern Pennsylvania Regional Planning Commission 

Oakland Transportation Management Association 

1of4 

Allegheny County Health Department 

Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection 

Pennsylvania Department of Transportation 

Air and Waste Management Association 

ARCO Chemical Company 

Consolidated Natural Gas Company 

Peoples Gas Company 

Butler Co. Chamber of Commerce 

North Suburban Chamber of Commerce 

ALCOA 

08/13/96 09:01 
~3~ 

QUESTIONS AND ANSWE •• .zone Action Program httl):J /www .dep ~at •• Jaw/ozone/Oandr.. 

Lukens - Washington 

BOW IT WORKS: 

The program works by forecasting days when ground level oz~ne conc~trations will ~otentially exceed 

. the health standard set by the EPA - and then asking the pubbc and businesses to do sunple, voluntary 

things that will help reduce ozone pollution. 

WHY JS OZONE BAD l'OR US? MOST PEOPLE THINK 01' OZONE AS GOOD. 

Ozone is good for us - when it's high in the stratosphere. There it fonns a protective layer above the 

earth that tilters sun's harmful ultra-violet rays. 

When ozone forms near the ground - where we breathe the air- it's unhealthy. Called "ground level 

ozone, 11 it's a pollutant that causes respiratory distress in humans, and at high concentrations can lead to 

lung damage. 

One easy way to remember the difference between the two types of ozone is the saying: GOOD UP 

HIGH. BAD NEARBY. 

HOW IS GROUND-LEVEL OZONE FORMED? 

Ground level ozone is formed when hydrocarbons and nitrogen oxides bake in the sun on hot days. These 

gases come from unburned fuel, solvents, tailpipes and smokestacks. 

PREDICTING OZONE: 

Because the ground level ozone fonns under certain weather conditions, if we can predict the weather, 

we can predict days when the ground level ozone concentrations may be high. These are generally hot 

(90 degrees and above), sunny days with little or no wind. 

Meteorologists track the weather patterns this and predict days when the ozone may exceed health 

standards. The Southwest PA Ozone Action Partnership calls for an Ozone Action Day. This 

announcement is made by 4 p.m. the day before the predicted high ozone day. The media is asked to 

broadcast this prediction, calling for an OZONE ACTION DAY - a day when everyone can help reduce 

ozone pollution. 

DO WE HA VE A GROUND-LEVEL OZONE PROBLEM IN PITISBURGH! 

Even though our air is cleaner than it was 30 years ago, Pittsburgh still occasionally exceeds the health 

standards for ground level ozone. This type of pollution isn't readily appamit to people - ozone is a colorless 

and odorless gas, so we can't always tell when ozone levels arc high. 

HOW BAD IS OUR OZONE PROBLEM! 

The air quality standard for ground level ozone is 120 parts per billion. When ozone levels rise above that' 

standard, an area is said to have 11an uceedance 11 ":".'·meaning we exceeded. the ozone standard. When an 

area has more than three exceedances at one air quality ~onitoring station in a three-year period, they are 

said to have a "violation 11 of the standard. If an area has violations of the standard, the EPA classifies· it 
QUE.$". IONS AND ANSWE. • .zone Action Program . ~J 1 

http:J/www;dep.ltat •• Jaw/ozone/OandA.h 

3 of 4 

as a "nonattainment area" meaning the air doesnt meet the health standard. These classincations range 

from Extreme (Los Angeles) to Severe (Philadelphia) to Marginal (Somerset County, PA). 

Seven counties in Southwest PA are classified by the EPA as a moderate nonattainment area for ground 

level ozone. Because we didn't have had any violations of the air quality standard from 1990 to 1994, the 

region applied to the EPA to beredesignated as in "attainment" of the standard. But last summer, we had 

17 exceedances of the ozone standard. That means conce11trations of ground-level ozone in our area 

jumped above the health standard. Multiple exceedances occurred at several air quality monitoring 

stations. This has prompted a move by the EPA to deny the region's redesignation request. 

WHAT HAPPENS IFWE STAY A NONATTAINMENT AREA? 

First and foremost, that means our air is not always healthy - and no one wants to breathe unhealthy air. 

It also means our residents and businesses will face more mandatory programs to clean the air and hurts 

our ability to attract new businesses - and expand existing businesses. Result: less new jobs for the area 

and more expense to residents and business. 

WHAT COUNTIES ARE AFFECTED? 

Although the Ozone Action Program offers benefits to most any areas, seven counties in Southwestern 

PA are asked to participate in the program. These are: Allegheny, Armstrong, Beaver, Butler, Fayett~ 

Westmoreland, and Washington. 

HAS THIS PROGRAM WORKED IN OTHER CITIES? 

A dozen cities across the U.S. have implemented Ozone Action Programs as a way to voluntarily - with 

little or no cost to business and Citizens - clean up the air. The most successful programs are in Tulsa and 

Detroit, where Ozone Action Programs have helped these cities achieve attainment with the national air 

quality standards. Philadelphia is beginning an ozone action program the summer of 1996. 

IS IT SAFE TO GO·OUTSIDE ON AN OZONE ACTION DAY? 

It's perfectly safe to go outside on an Ozone Action Day. Certain people may wish to resttict strenuous 

outdoor activities, however. Elderly people, and those individuals with existing respiratory ailments, 

should avoi~ exercising outdoors for prolonged periods of time on high' ozone days. Young children, 

especially those with asthma, should also avoid strenuous outdoor activity. Healthy people can experience 

reduced lung function on high ozone days, and should pace themselves when exercising on very hot, 

sUMy days. 

HOW CAN PEOPLE HELP REDUCE OZONE? 

Most everyt>ne causes pollution - so if we all take small steps to reduce pollutiori, we can achieve our 

goal: cleaner, healthy air - and a healthy economy. · 

We have a list of 12 simple things that people can do on Ozone Action Days to help reduce pollution. 

These include car pooling or riding the bus, mowing lawns in the evening instead of during the day; 

conserving energy by not overcooling our homes; combining trips and errands - or driving less during 

the day and running errands in the evening. These steps are simple, they're inexpensive, and they help! 

Less noxious gases put into the atmosphere during 'the day, means less ground level ozone. 

08/13/96 09:0i 
~ l(-0 

QUESTIONS AND AHSWE •• .zone Action Program http:J/www .dep.atat •• Jaw/ozone/ClandA~ 

We're looking for groups, organizations, and businesses to join our partnership. They can help by 

distributing information to employees, and finding ways to voluntarily reduce emissions. For more 

information about the program or ways to panicipate, call l-800-333-7688. 

PENNSYLVANIA DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENT AL PROTECTION 

DEP Home I Search I C/pdate I Ask 

-

DEf I What's New I Hot Topics 

Last Modified July 3, 1996 
PROGRAM PROFILE - PORTUND. OR 

Episodic Control Program Profile - Portland, OR 

BASIC INFORMATION 

Program Name: Clean Air Action Days 

Area of Coverage: Portland Metro area, ORI Vancouver, WA 

Main Pollutant(s) Targeted: Ozone 

Attainment Status (CO I PM10 I 03): C0/03 - nonattainment (awaiting redesignation to 

Implementing Agency: 

Start Date: 

Program Goals (Ranked) 

Program required by law? 

ls the program enforceable? 

Funding and Administration 

1996 Budget: $100,00o+ 

attainment); PM10 - attainment 

Oregon Department of Environmental Quality 

(DEQ); Southwest Washington APCA (SW APCA) 

Mayl991 

1. To attain air quality standards (NAAQS) 

2. Health Benefits 

3. Public'education 

No (While the Clean Air Action Day prograni itself is not 

mandated by law, Division 27-012 does require the 

Department to issue an "Ozone advisory".) . 

Yes (program is included in the SIP) 

Funding Source(s): EPA grants, private sector 

contributions, vehicle inspection funding, CMAQ 

Volunteer Igtl1 

# Full-time equivalent staff at the main agency 

eaid 

4 4 

unknown # Full-time equivalent staff at other affiliated agencies 

Public Outreach 

Methods used to inform the public about the program 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

Radio advertisements 

Newspaper advertisements 

Internet web site 

Workshops (for school, industry, the public) 

Public education booths at community events 

Creation and dissemination of public education materials 

Provide information to puticipating employees through their employers 

Presentations to groups 

Theater slides (planned for 1997) 

Signs in certain retail stores 

Chevron gas stations 

I 

)._ i l 
PROGRAM PROFllE - PORTUND. OR 

Describe most effective part of public outreach program: n/a 

Episode Day Actions Recommended by the Program 

• Avoid driving at lunch time (take lunch to school or work) 

• Use alternative modes of transportation (car/vanpools. transit, etc.) instead of driving alone 

• Keep vehicle tuned-up 

• Combine multiple auto trips throughout the day 

• Work from home (telecommute) 

• Change work schedules to avoid the commute 

• Avoid using gasoline-powered garden equipment (lawnmowers. blowers, etc.) 

• A void using charcoal lighter fluid 

• Avoid household maintenance activities that produce emissions (painting, degreasing, etc.) 

• Use fleet vehicles to attend lunch/meetings (Companies) 

• Use conferencing technologies instead of face to face meetings 

• Reduce high-emitting production activities (Stationary Sources) 

• Avoid maintenance activities (Stationary Sources) 

• Postpone landscaping activities (Stationary Sources) 

• Switch to cleaner burning fuels (Stationary Sources) · 

Discuss any unique control measures included in the program:· 

• Use low-solvent paints 

• Use non-aerosol products 

• Limit motorboat activity 

• Keep tires properly inflated 

• A void driving during the day for business purposes 

• Postpone or limit gasoline barge loading activities during the day 

Participation & Incentives 

• 130 Employers 

• General public 

• Stationary Sources 

lncentivu to Encowage Participation 

General Public: Free transit, In-store demonstration of low-VOC products (planned for 1997) 

Companies: Public recognition. Advertisements in the Business Jo~ Certificates from the 

Governor's office, Letter from agency Director 

Employees: Free or discounted transit fares 

Free or discounted lunches 

Flexible work schedules 

Preferential parking for car/vanpools Preferential parking for car/Vanpools 

Guaranteed emergency ride home for employees who car/vanpooVtransit 

Allow casual attire to encourage walking and cycling to work 

Forecasting Pollution Episode Days 
Weather forecaster & Pollution: 

Parameters Examined: 

DEQ 

Service 

mixing height, 

speed. wind direction. 

Criteria to setting forecast day: 

Method used to forecast day: 

experience 

method 

variables yields a 

Accuracy: 

Notification Mechanisms 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

Television stations 

Radio stations 

Newspapers· 

Participating Stationary Sources 

Employers 

Stationary Sources 

Retailers· 

PROGRAM PROFILE - PORTUND. OR 

National Weather Service POX (weather forecasts), Oregon 

DEQ (pollution forecasts) 

' previous day pollution levels, current day levels, 

agency met.site data. intuition, NWS and Forest 

meteorologist conversations concerning 

inversion strength, high temp, wind 

No specific criteria are used. 

A continually evolving technique is utilizing past 

and meteorological intuition is used. No formal 

exists. The number and interaction of 

complex decision tree. 

Has not been quantified. 

Method of notification : . fax 

Method of notification : '(ax 

Method of notifl&tltion : fax 

Method of notification : fax 

Method of notification : fax 

Method of notification : fax 

Method of notification : fax 

Television stations mention the alert day through news reports, weather forecasts, and making 

public service announcements. In the Oregonian newspaper, a Smog Watch Box - the symbol 

used to alert the public about a pollution episode - is shown on either on the front page or on the 

front of the Metro section. On occasion the program 1s also mentioned in articles. Radio 

stations broadcast public service announcements, and included the pollution episode day in news 

stories. Chevron gas stations have agreed to place signs throughout the ozone season suggesting 

simple "clean air" actions to area teSidents - but they do not make any special outreach efforts on 

Clean Air Action Days. · 

Program Evaluation 

Data Collected: 

Other Data Desired: 

the 

currently in their 

Surveys of the general public, participating stationary sources and 

companies; ttansit ridership data 

Yes, they are awaiting quantification from paint companies regarding 

amount of VOCs saved in refonnulating certain products 

inventory. 

Analysis of Data: No 

Emission Estimated: n/a 

Emiss reduction per participant n/a 

Cost per participant: n/a 

Emission Reduction Ratio: n/a 

J 
PROGRAM PROFILE-RICHMOND. VA 

Episode Day Actions Recommended by the Program 

• Use alternative modes of transportation (car/vanpools. transit, etc) instead of driving alone 

• Keep vehicle tuned up 

• Combine multiple auto trips throughout the day 

• Avoid refueling until the evening (i.e., after 6 p.m.) 

• Avoid excessive idling 

• Keep tires properly inflated 

• Avoid using gasoline-powered garden equipment (lawnmowers, blowers, etc) (Area Source) 

• Avoid using charcoal tighter fluid (Area Source) 

• Avoid household maintenance activities that produce emissions (painting, etc) (Area Source) 

• Avoid using aerosol sprays (Area Source) 

• Postpone fleet refueling until the evening (i.e., after 6 p.m.) (Companies) 

• Postpene building and grounds maintenance activities which utiliz.e small engines, paints. etc. 

(Companies) 

• Consider using a higher cetane diesel fuel (Companies) 

• Reduce high-emitting production activities (Stationary Sources) 

• Avoid maintenance activities (painting, degreasing, tank cleaning, etc) (Stationary Sources) 

• Postpone landscaping activities (lawn mowing, tractor & backhoe use, etc.) (Stationary Sources) 

• Switch to cleaner burning fuels (for diesel vehicles) (Stationary Sources) 

Discuss any unique control measures included in the program: An important aspect of the 

Richmond episodic control program is the significant role which Ridefinders piays in the program. 

Ridefinders is a rideshare agency that provides travel demand management services to the 

Richmond region. 

Participation & Incentives 

• 150 Employers 

• 7 4, 000 Drivers 

• Stationary Sources 

Incentives to Encourage Participation 

General Public: None 

Companies: Public recognition, prize for employee transportation coordinator 

Employees: One company awards SS lunch coupons and points toward the company 

incentives program to employees who carpool. 

Forecasting Pollution Episode Days. 

Weather forecaster & Pollution: 

Parameters: 

Criteria to setting forecast day: 

V A-DEQ .and Ridefinders 

Temperature, wind speed, cloud cover, synoptic weather 

patterns, current ozone readings 

DEQ issues an official Ozone Health Advisory when 

ozone levels are forecast to exceed .12 parts per million, 

and.fcμc119tification to Ridefinders; major media, and other 

interest~ •partieS by 2:00 p.m. the afternoon before the 

'2 
Method used to forecast day: 

Accuracy: 

Notification Mechanisms 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

Television stations 

Radio stations 

Newspapers 

Participating Stationary Sources 

Participating Employers 

Gas stations (planned) 

PROGP.AM PROFTLE-RJCffifO.'vD. ~:-1 

exceedance is forecast. Ridefinders then faxes aii 

advisory with guidelines for reducing ozone precursors to 

the media and to employers participating in the program. 

Based on an empirical equation developed by the 

Washington DC Council of Governments. The forecast is 

then modified using intuition. 

Qualified forecasts. are estimated to be 75 - 80% accurate. 

Method of notification : .. fax 

Method of notification : fax 

Method of notification: fax 

Method of notification: fax 

Method of notification: fax 

Method of notification: fax 

Discuss unique or successful methods of notification: After being n(\tmed of a pollution episode, 

TV stations report the information in both the news report and the weather forecast. Newspapers 

include the forecasted episode in a PSI report and in a news article. Radio hosts make 

announcements and mention the forecast in their news report. In the future, gas stations will 

utilize flags to convey the information to the general public. 

Program Evaluation 

Data collected: 

Other Data Desired: 

Analysis of Data: 

Emission Estimated: 

Emission reduction per participant: 

Cost per participant 

Emission Redud:ion Ratio: 

Survey data. 

Traffic counts. parking counts 

See 'Survey Results' 

NIA 

NIA 

NIA 

NIA 

Two swveys were conducted in order to estimate future participation rates and summarize 

general perceptions concerning environmental quality in the Richmond area as well as develop an 

understanding of behavioral changes individuals are willing to undertake to improve air quality. 

The first swvey was conducted during the week of May 25, 1995 and involved interviewing a 

randomly selected group of 603 residents of the Richmond area. 

The second survey was conducted between August 23-28, 1995 and involved interviewing 310 

randomly selected Richmond residents. Relevant results from both swveys have been summarized 

at the end of this profile. 

Main problems or pitfalls encountered during the implementation of the program: There was a 

great deal of skepticism from traditional traffic engineers and transportation planners regarding 

the potential effectiveness of the program. There was a relatively low response to a written 

request for employer participation. A direct sales approach was found to be successful~ 
PROGRAM PROFlLE-RJCHMO!vD. v:.t 

Parts of the program that have been the most successful: The establishment of Rideshares as a 

visible and respected community organization has been a particularly successful aspect of the 

Richmond program. Public education has resulted in citizens more willing to engage in individual 

actions which help alleviate air pollution levels on episode days. The episodic controls program 

has also established a firm foundation for the creation and implementation of more in-depth 

alternative mode transportation initiatives. Most recently, Governor George Allen has drawn 

significant attention to the program through frequent public radio announcements detailing air 

quality in the area. 

Survey Results 

Survey 1. 

Q. In general. how would you rate the quality of the air you breathe. Would you say it is very 

good, good. fair. or poor? 

VERY GOOD 

GOOD 

FAIR 

POOR 

10% 

34% 

44% 

11% 

Q. Do you think the overall quality of the air around Richmond is better or worse than it was ten 

years ago? 

BETTER 

WORSE 

STA YEO THE SAME 

NO OPINION 

33% 

51% 

9% 

7% 

Q. When would you say was the last time the Richmond area experienced unhealthy levels of 

carbon monoxide? 

1996 12% 

1995 25% 

Approximately S years ago 24% 

Approximately 1 O years ago 13% 

Approximately IS years ago 3% 

More than 15 years ago 4% 

Don't know 19'/o 

In fact, the Richmond area has not had a carbon monoxide problem registered at local air 

pollution monitors in more than 1 S years. 

Q. In the next ten years, do you expect that the quality of the air around Richmond will get better 

or worse? -

BETTER 

WORSE 

500/o 

47%. 

4 
ST A Y THE SAME 

NO OPINION 

2% 

~% 

PROGRA.Yf PROFILE-RICHMOND. v:-t 

Q. When do you think the Richmond area will probably meet the clean air standards set by the 

EPA? Would you say the area ha5 already met the standards or that it will meet the standards ... 

Already meet standard 14% 

Within I year 7% 

Within S years 21'/o 

Within I 0 years 21 % 

Within 20 years 7% 

More than 20 years from now 2% 

Never 13% 

Don't know 9% 

Q. Have you ever ~eard of an "ozone alert" air quality forecast? 

Yes 

No 

Not Sure 

690/o 

30% 

1% 

Q. When an ozone alert is announced, what steps, if any, should individuals like yourself take in 

response? What else? (List was NOT read to interviewees) 

Stay indoors/keep children in 40% 

Avoid or minimize driving 11'/o 

Avoid mowing 13% 

Carpool 5% 

Avoid painting 2% 

Conserve electricity/air cond. 2% 

Don't cook outdoors 2% 

Refuel cars after dark 1 % 

Other 11'/o 

None 4% 

Don't know 7% 

Q. I'd like to read you a few diiferent activities, and for each one I read, please tell me if you 

would be willing to do it today in order to help improve Richmond's air quality. 

YES NO DON'T KNOW 

Have your car tuned up regularly 96% 4% 0% 

Have your car tested at an: 86% 14% 0% 

emissions testing center 

Walk instead of drive to places 76% 23% 1% 

in your local neighborhood 

Exchange an older polluting car 62% 32% 6% 

for several hundred dollars in cash 

Car pool to work most of the time 62% 36% 2% 

5 
d, 50 

Use public transportation regularly 46% 

Buy an electric-powered car 3 6% 

Survey 2. 

53% 

59% 

PROGRAM PROFILE-RICHMOND. VA 

0% 

5% 

• More than eight-in-ten (83% - 257 respondents) are aware of the summer Ozone Advisory 

Report designed to alert residents when unhealthy levels of ozone pollution are in the air. 

• Among respondents aware of the Ozone Advisory Report, an almost equal number took 

action as those who did not. 46% reported they took action to minimize the pollutants as 

a result of these advisories, while 50% stated they did not heed action of any kind. City 

residents (North and South) were more likely to take action than other area residents. 

• Not driving or driving less (31°/o - 44 respondents) was the most common action taken. 

This was followed by carpooling (20% • 24 respondents), postponing mowing the lawn 

( 13% - 16 respondents) and stopping the use of aerosols and chlorotlurocarbons ( 10% -

12 respondents). To a lesser degree, respondents walked/biked (8%), rode the bus (5%), 

stayed home/indoors (5%), and kept car tuned/maintained emissions (5%). 

6 
Virginia OEQ: Ozone forecast 1 (Richmond> 

J. 51 httJ>:J/www.deq.~at •• JozoM/r~zoneJt 

1 of 1 

Virginia Department of Environmental Quality 

CONTACT: Dan Salkovitz, (804) 698-4404 or Bill Hayden, (804) 698-4447 

August 12, 1996 

Ozone forecast for Richmond area: "Code 

Green" 

RICHM:OND, VA - The Virginia Department of Environmental Quality forecasts that ground-level 

ozone levels will be Code Green, in the- 11 good" range, tomorrow afternoon and evening in the 

metropolitan Richmond area. 

This means the amount of ozone formed in the air is expected to be low. Ground-level ozone, the main 

ingredient of smog, is a colorless gas formed by the reaction of heat and sunlight with car exhaust, 

gasoline fumes, solvent vapors and industrial emissions. 

DEQ provides ·an ozone forecast for the Richmond metro area each weekday at 2 p.m. For more 

information about the Ozone Advisory Program, please call Ridefinden at (804) 643-7433. 

~ Virginia ozone forecasts 

08/13/96 09:3E 

PROGR..~\1 PROF7LE-SA.CIU\1E.\70. CA 

Episodic Control Program Profile - Sacramento, CA 

BASIC INFORMATION 

Program Name: 

Area of Coverage: 

Main Pollutant(s) Targeted: 

Spare the Air 

Sacnunento, CA Region 

03 

Attainment Status (CO I PMIO I 03): Severe nonattainment for 03 

Implementing Agency: Sacramento Metropolitan Air Quality Management 

District (SMAQMD) 

Start Date: May 1995 

Program Goals (Ranked) 1. Attain air quality standards (NAAQS) 

2. Health Benefits 

3. Public Education 

Program required by law? 

41014, 

Yes (CA H&SC Section 40918(a)(b); Section 

41065) 

Is the program enforceable? No 

Funding and Administration 

1996 Budget: $232,500 Funding Source(s): ISTEA (CMAQ) & DMV 

# Full-time equivalent staff at the main agency 

# Full-time equivalent staff at other affiliated agencies 

Public Outreach 

Methods used to inform the public about the program 

• Television advertisements 

• Radio advertisements 

• Newspaper adwrtisemcms_ 

• Billboard advcrtisemems 

• Internet web site (http:Jlwww.sparetheair.com/) 

• · Public education booths at community events 

• Workshops (for schools. indusuy, public) , 

fHI 

2.75 

0 

• Creation and diueminatioa of public education materials . 

• Provide information to pirti.cipating employees through their employers 

• The SMOG SQUAD - grassroots neighborhood campaign 

Volunteer Total 

2.75 

o· 

Describe the most effective part of the public outreach program: All 'public outreach methods 

seem to be working well. Public opinion monitoring indicates that advertising has reached 80% of 

drivers. 

l 

-

) 53 
PROGRAM PR0FlLE-SACRAA1ENTO. CA 

Episode Day Actions Recommended by the Program 

• Avoid driving at lunch time (take lunch to school or work) 

• Use alternative modes of ttanspartation (car Ivan pools. transit. etc) instead of driving alone 

• Keep vehicle tuned up 

• Combine multiple auto trips throughout the day 

• Work from home (telecommute) 

• Keep travel speeds at the speed limit and steady 

• Change work schedules to avoid the commute 

• Avoid using gasoline-powered garden equipment (lawnmowers. blowers. etc) 

• A void using charcoal lighter fluid 

• Avoid household maintenance activities that produce emissions (painting. degreasing. etc) 

Participation & Incentives 

• General public 

• 13 7 Employers representing 1 S 1.500 employees 

Incentives to Encourage Participation 

General Public: "Spare the Air Bucks" incentive program administered through TMAs 

Companies: Public rec:ognition. promotional items & suppon in publicizing the program to 

employees 

Employees: Fr= or discounted transit fares 

Flexible work schedules . 

Preferential parking for car/vanpools 

Guaranteed emergency ride home for employees who car/vanpool/transit 

Forecasting Pollution Episode Days 

Weather forecaster & Pollution: 

Parameters Examined: 

Criteria to setting forecast day: 

Method used to forecast day: 

Accuracy: 

Notification Mechanisms 

• 

• 

• 

• 

Television stations 

Radio stations 

Newspapers 

Employers 

Sonoma Technology (under contract to the SMAQMD) 

03 con~ wind, temperature, satellite images, weather map 

Persisten~ Empirical, algorithm b~ and meteorological 

intuition 

Has yet to be determined. This is the first year using 

Sonoma Technology 

Method of notification : fax 

Method of notification : fax 

Method of notification : fax 

Method of notiflcatio~: fax 

Television stations mention the alert day in news reports and weather reports, as well as through 

paid advertisements. Newspapers publish special announcements and articles discussing the 

pollution episode, in addition to including it with the Pollutant Standard Index (PSI) report. 

Radio stations notify the public of pollution episode days by mentioning them in news reports, 

2 
PROGRAM PROFTLE-SA.CRAAiE.'<TO. C4 

having the radio host make announcements and by broadcasting paid advenisements on pollution 

episode days. 

Program Evaluation 

Data c·ollected: 

Other Data Desired: 

Analysis of Data: 

Emission Estimated: 

Transit ridership data (obtained from transit agency) & participation data 

(collected from annual surveys and two mini-polls conducted each 

swnmer following episode days). 

More information from employers. ar~ traffic count data 

The Cleaner Air Partnership of Sacramento bas conducted annual Air 

Quality and Transportation public opinion surveys since 1989. From the 

1995 survey data they have estimated awareness levels. panicipaticn 

levels. and emission reductions from the Spare the Air program. 

Preliminary analysis of data showed emission reductions of 6, 156 kg of 

ROG and NOx per weekday (Spare the Air day). This equates to 49 tons 

of ozone precursors per year. Note that these values have come under 

criticism by some agency representatives who have concerns on the 

accuracy of the information provided by survey respondents. Currently, 

the Cleaner Air Partnership is re-evaluating the data and trying to identify 

other sources of data (i.e. traffic counts) With which to corroborate their 

findings. 

Emiss reduction per participant: Not available. but the analysis does report emission reductions of 5 .11 

grams per trip end and 1.3 per mile. Average emissions reduced during 

the weekday would be 16 grams per trip for o%one precursors. · 

Cost per participant: Not available 

Emission Reduction Ratio: Not available 

Main problems or pitfalls encountered during the implementation of the program: Documenting 

emission reductions is the biggest challenge. Even though the Spare the Air minipolls, which use 

industry-standard. scien~c survey methods, have documented driving trip and emi~on 

redu~ons, survey infonnation is not always given the credence· it deserves. 

Parts of the program that have been the most successful: 

• Voluntary media news coverage and cooperation, over and above any paid advertising, has 

been outstanding. 

• Employer participation and enthusiasm has exceeded expectations. 

• Public awareness of the program (800/o) has exceeded expectations. 

Noteworthy aspects of the program: 

• An intensive data collection effort has been undertaken by this program (in the fonn of annual 

public opinion surveys and bi-annual mini-polls after episode days). This data is used to 

asses~ the effectiveness of the program. 

• This is one of the only programs that has attempted to quantify the reduction$ in vehicle trips 

and emission caused by the program. 

3 

~55 

SMAQMD Spare The Ail Home Page ~ s I 

ht°tl) :J /WWW IJ)lntheair ~O 

1of2 

... SPARE THE AIR ~ Spare Tlie Air is 1 voluntary dri\'ing curtailment 

program brought to you by the air didriats ol the 

Sacraraenfo, California region 

Sacramento Region Ozone Air Quality Forecast 

Friday August 9, 1996: 138 - HEALTH ADVISORY 

Saturday August 10, 1996: 138 - HEALTH ADVISORY 

Sunday August 11, 1996: 113 - UNHEALTHY 

Monday August 12, 1996: 83 - MARGINAL 

!!!.!!!!!!! "Spare The Air" !!!!!!!!!! 

ADVISORY 

For: 

Friday August 9, 1996. 

Saturday August 10, 1996 

Sunday August 11, 1996 

08/12196 10:55: 
J~~ 

SMAOMD Spara The Ai.I Homa Page httP :J /www ~aretheait. 

Sacramento County Air Quality Data 

State Ozone Exceedences (over 75 PSI): 

1996- 30; 1995- 39 

Federal Ozone Exceedences (over 100 PSI): 

1996 - 4 ; 1995 - 10 

Regional Federal Ozone Exceedences 

1996- 6 

g:;:] How~ SQl!!Jl The Air pm!!!'ll!! works 

~ Ihinga You Can Do Tu Spare The Air 

C Ajr Quality. Transit and Ridesh~ Agencies 

Bay Area Air Quality Management Pistrict 

Spare The Air Program 

939 Ellis Street, San Francisco, CA94109 

~ DQWll Load Lilnm 

Submit Ouestions ??? Comments... To webster@sna.com 
PROGRA.\1 PROFTLE-SAlv AlvTON!O. TX 

Episodic Control Program Profile-San Antonio, TX 

BASIC INFORMATION 

Program Name: 

Area of Coverage: 

Main Pollutant(s) Targeted: 

Ozone Action Da~; 

San Antonio, TX 

03 

Attairunent Status (CO I PMlO I 03): Attairunent for CO, PMlO, and 03 

Implementing Agency: Alamo Area Council of Governments, Texas Natural 

Resource Conservation Commission 

Stan Date: 1994 

Program Goals (Ranked) 1. Public education 

2. To maintain the attainment status of the area 

Program required by law? 

Is the program enforceable? 

3. Health benefits 

NoNo 

Funding and Administration 

1996 Budget: Data not available. Funding Source(s): Texas DOT, FHW A 

# Full-time equivalent staff at the mmn agency 

# Full-time equivalent staff' at other affiliated agencies 

Public Outreach 

Methods used to infonn the public about the program 

• Television advertisemcDts 

• Workshops (for school. industly, the public) 

• Public education booths at community eyems 

• Creation and dis.ce:snination of public education mawia1s 

• Provide information to participating employees through their employers 

Describe most effective part of public outreach program: n/a 

Episode Day Actions Recommended by the Program 

• Avoid driving ai lunch time (take lunch to school or work) 

Volunteer Tu!il 

n/a 

n/a 

• 

• 

Use alternative modes of uansportation (car/vanpools, transit, etc) instead of driving alone 

Keep vcbicle tuned-up 

• 

• 

• 

Combine multiple auto Uips throughout the day 

Avoid refueling until the evening (i.e .• after 6 p.m.) 

Change work schedules to avoid the commute 

] 
PROGRAA1 PROFILE-·SAN AlvTO,VIO. TX 

• Avoid using gasoline-powered garden equipment (lawnmowers. blowers. etc) 

• .Avoid household maintenance activities that produce emissions (painting., degreasing. er.c) 

• Postpone fleet refueling until evening (Companies) 

• Reduce bigh~mitting production activities (Stationary Sources) 

• Avoid maintenance activities (Stationary Sources) 

• Posrpone landscaping activities (Stationary Sources) 

• Sw1tch to cleaner burning fuels (Stationary Sources) 

Discuss any unique control measures included in the program: nla 

Participation & Incentives 

• Employers 

• General public 

• Stationary Sources 

Incentives to Encourage Participation 

General Public : 

Companies: 

Employees: 

Auto repair/tune-up discounts 

Public recognition 

Free or discounted transit fares 

Free or discounted lunches 

Flexible work schedules 

Preferential parking for car/vanpools 

Guarantl:ed emergency ride home for employees who car/vanpooJ/trmsit 

Forecasting PoUution Episode Days 

Weather forecaster & Pollution: 

Parameters Examined: 

Criteria to setting forecast day: 

Method used to forecast day: 

Accuracy: 

NWS. TNRCC I TNRCC 

Temp, WS, WD, ozone (all forecast parameters) . 

7:00 am temp> 90F, WS < 7knots, 10am-4pm ave, 

WS<7 knots, 60<WD<200 de& clear skies, ozone>SO ppm 

WS/WD critical parameters, use meteorological intuition, 

empirical relationships and a statistical model based on 

nested grid model · 

State meteorologists > 80 years experience, data is 

maintained on accuracy, some years are better than others. 

2 
Notification Mechanisms 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

Television stations 

Radio stations 

Newspapers 

Participating Staionary Sources 

Employers 

Stationary Sources 

PROGRAM PROFILE-SAN AhTO.VlO. TX 

Method of notification : fax. phone 

Method of notification : fax. phone 

Method of notification : fax. phone 

Method of notification : fax. phone 

Method of notification: fax. phone 

Method of notification : fax. phone 

Television stations mention the aJert day in the news reports and the weather repon while newspapers discuss it in 

special announcements and articles. Radio public service announcements arc broadcast in addition to it being 

included in news stories and mentioned by DJ's. 

Program Evaluation 

Data Collected: Transit ridership levels, employee participation rares 

Other Data Desired: Survey of the general public 

Analysis of Data: No 

Emission Estimated: n/a 

Emiss reduction per participant: n/a 

Cost per participant: n/a 

Emission Reduction Ratio: n/a 

Main problems or pitfalls encountered during the implementation of the program: 

• Lack of resources 

• Lack of participation by small businesses 

Parts of the program that have been the most successful: 

• Good media coverage 

• Ozone Action Day season kick~ff lunch 

• Contributions by Texas DOT 

3 

PROGRAM PROF7LE-SAN FRANCISCO. CA. 

Episodic Control Program Profde-San Francisco Bay Area, CA 

BASIC INFORMATION 

Program Name: 

Area of Coverage: 

Main Pollutant(s) Targeted: 

Attainment Status (CO/PMlO/ 03): 

Spare the Air 

San Francisco Bay Area 

Ozone 

Attainment - ozone 

Implementing Agency: 

Start Date: 

Bay Area Air Quality Management District 

Stimmer 1991 

Program Goals (Ranked) 

Program required by law? 

Is the program enforceable? 

1. Health benefits 

2. Maintain· AQ status 

3. Public education 

Yes 

No 

Funding and Administration 

1996 Budget: $325,000 

'96 Pilot Program: $197,000 

Summer Advertising: $65,000 

Funding Source(s): BAAQMD 

AB434 

Industry 

# Full-time equivalent st.aft' at the main agency 

# Full-time equivalent sta1f at other affiliated agenciu 

# Pan-time equivalent statr at e1nployas 

Public Outreach 

~ Volunteer 

3 

1 

u 

M~ods used to infonn the public about the program 

• Provide information to pal1icipating employees tbn>ugh their e1nployas 

• Television advertisements 

• Public educaDOD booths at community events 

• Cn:ation and dissemination of public education materials 

• Internet site (http://www.sparetheair.org/index.sbt) 

• Radio advertiscmadl 

• Workshops (for schools, industiy. 91Jblic) 

• Newspaper advertisemads 

• Toll-free#: 1-800-HELP·AIR. 

• Transponation Fairs 

• Partnerships that reach customers like PG&E Newsletters, milk carton ads 

• Public speaking 

IQ!!l 

3 

1 

lS 

Describe the most effective part of the public outreach program: They have 650 employer 

participants and estimate that about half a ~on people are notified through employer outreach. 

l 
PROGRAM PROFILE-SAN FRANCISCO. CA 

Monthly workgroups were formed with business partners to evaluate and assist with development 

of outreach materials. As a result of this effort, several "resource teams" have been formed 

which have offered additional support to the program. Partnerships have formed such as PG&E 

and Kaiser Permanente who both include information about the Spare the Air program in 

newsletter they send out to their customers. The Kaiser partnership has been effective since, as a 

health organization, they can discuss the health implications of the program. Other businesses 

which are participating include Chevron (pump information) and Clover dairy (on milk cartons). 

Episode Day Actions Recommended by the Program · 

• Use alternative modes of transportation (car/vanpools. transit. etc) instead of driving alone 

• Keep vehicle tuned up 

• Combine multiple auto trips throughout the day 

• Work from home (telecommute) 

• Keep travel speeds at the speed limit and steady· 

• · Walk. bicycle to work 

• Avoid using gasoline-powemt garden equipment (lawnmowers. blowers. etc) 

• A void using charcoal lighter fluid 

• Avoid household maintenance activities that produce emissions (painting. degreasing. etc) 

• Limit use of consumer products (hair sprays. perfumes. fumitiue polish) · 

• Reduce high-emitting production activities (StatioDaJY Sowces) - Planned for 1997 season 

• Avoid maintenance activities (Stationary Sowces) - Planned for 1997 season 

• Postpone landscaping activities (Stationary SOwces) - Planncd for 1997 season 

Discuss any unique control measures inclut:kd in the program: There is a significant effort 

underway to curtail truck idling by 1997. This will also be included in the episodic control 

program. Also targeting completion of certain activities, such as painting, during the spring and 

fall periods; this will also be included in· the 1997 campaign. 

Participation .& Incentives 

• 6SO employers 

• General public 

Incentives to Encourage Participation 

General Public : 

Companies: 

Employees: 

Transit discounts, Free transit, Auto repair/tune-up discounts. Monetary 

rewards 

Public recognition; Pilot program with 10 companies collaborating to offer 

free transit, carpooling incentives, raftle, and special carpool matching 

Free or discounted transit fares 

P1efe1eutial parking for car/vanpools 

Guaranteed emergency ride home for employees who car/vanpool/transit 

Telecommuting on Spare the Air days · 

Special carpool matching 

Raffle 

2 
Forecasting Pollution Episode Days 

Weather forecaster & Pollution: 

Parameters examined: 

Criteria to setting forecast episode day: 

Method used to forecast episode day: 

Accuracy: 

Notification Mechanisms 

PROGRAM PROFTLE-SA.V FR.-LVC!SCO. CA 

BAAQMD Staff 

surface winds, temp. ozone precursors, ozone, 

horizontal temp. gradient, NGM, ET A MRF model 

outputs, fog/pattern. weekday/weekend effort 

PSI 2:: 80 

Correlation of meteorological parameters and high 

ozone concentrations 

12 hour forecasts are very good, 24 hr forecasts are 

good 

• Television stations Method of notification: fax 8r. phone 

• Radio stations Method of notification: fax 

• Newspapers Metkod of notification : fax 

• . Participating Employers Method of notification : fax& phone 

• Stationary Sources Method ofnotificalion: fax 

Television stations mention the alert day in the news reports and the weather repon. Some local newspapers 

include it in with the PSI report, mention the Spare the Air day in articles. and display the Spare the Air Day logo 

on the maubead Radio stations mention it in news stories and by DJ's. 

Program Evaluation 

Data Collected: ( l) Public awareness data on IOcal air pollution issues (collected using 

public opinion survey); (2) transit ridership levels and traffic counts 

(obtained from the transportation agency); (3)· employee participation 

rates (collected using surveys completed by participating employers) 

Other Data Desired: Still trying to identify 

Analysis of Data: Yes, "More complete transit data and bridge count data. 

Emission Estimated; Dia 

Emiss reduction per participant: Dia 

Cost per participant:. Dia 

Emission Reduction Ratio: Dia 

Main problems or pitfalls encountered during the implementation of the program: Severe lack of 

funds and staiffor an area as big as the Bay Area-nine counties and 6.5 million people. Could 

do much more with more adequate resources 

Parts of the program that have been the most successful: (1) The employer netWork (2) 

partnerships with industry that reach customers, (3) Bay Area Clean Air Partnership (BA YCAP) 

has added significant clout to the pro~ and may have further benefits. 

Noteworthy aspects of the program: This program has c0ntinues to collect data on the awareness 

levels of the program and the behavior changes caused by the program A fall 1995 public 

awareness survey found that 73% of the respondents knew of the program and that 28% said they 

changed behavior because of the program. 

J 

Spare the Ajr hOtN page 

1of2 

Bay Area Air Quality Forecast 

Monday - August 5, 1996 

Spa>'"- tluz /4i1' 

HOME PAGE ·1' 

NORm COUNTIES 33 Good 

Tomorrow: TBA 

3rd day: -

COAST & CENTRAL BAY 17 Good 

Tomorrow: TBA 

3rd day: -

EASTERN DISTRICT 42 Good· 

Tomorrow: TBA 

3rd day: -

SOUDI CENTRAL BAY 33 Good 

Tomorrow: TBA 

3rd day: -

SANTA CLARA VAT I EV -42 Good 

Tomorrow: TBA 

3rd day: -

Ir a Span th Air day is predicted this page will announce it by 1:30 PM. The actual numben will 

be posted by 4:30 PM. This page is updated daily, except on those weekends when air quality is 

predicted to remain healthful and a three-day forecast is made. 

08/05/98 16:50: 
,i'>.A l:i 't> 

Spare th• Alt home page 

D What to do on a Spare the Air da,y 

D The Pollutant Standards Index - What the numbers mean 

D A day in the life of ozone 

. D Air guality forecasting - How jfs done 

D 1996 Box Scores - Ozone Excess§ 

D Comprehensive links to Bay Area transit and commute alternatives 

o Telecommuters: Register for e-mail notification on Spare the Air davs 

o Spare the Air in Sacramento 

http :J /WWW .SC)aretheair .org/in~. 

This page is maintained by the Bay Area Air QualityManage~nt District. 
Bay ArN Ozone Exe ... D8Y8 

1 of 1 

1996 Ozone Excesses 

Based on preliminary data, last updated July 30, 1996 

1996 State and NationaJ Excess Days 

jNorth €ounties 

I State !!National II Max. concentration/ Date I 

13 l(o 11112 ppb I 6-2-96 

Coast & Central Bay 0 lo Jlss ppb / 6-2-96 

Eastern District 14 Is j 137 ppb / 7-1-96 

South Central Bay 4 lo j 101ppb/6-30-96 

Santa Clara Valley 16 11 11129 ppb I 7-1-96 

District-wide 20 s 1137 P2b I 7-1-96 

Bay Area Ozone Excess Days - Looking Back 10 Yean 

11995 11994 j 1993 1992 J1991 l1990ll9891 1988 1987 

State l2a I 13 I 19 23 123 114 122 41 4S 

Nat1. 11 12 . I 3 2 2 12 114 D 14 

a Return to Spare tbe Air home page , 

a The Pollutant Standards Index - What the numbers mean 

O Air Ouality Fon;castina • How it's done 

I 

I 

I 

I 

11986 

~ 

s _ __J 

· If boating is yo11r sport, html 011t the oan or unfurl the sails 

on Span theAiT Days. B11t don't touch that outboard motor. 

Outboard motors lade pollution control devices. It's 

atimated that recnational motor boating contributa 111 

tons of poll11tion to the Bay Ana on a typical sununa day/ 

08/05/96 17:18: 
~ (U 
.---:::::; :.... ... _:_::--=-. ~ .. -:--_ . Cutting SMOG· How ...rtime AJI Poilution 

What YQU cahdo 

TO CURB SUMMERTIME OZONE 

Drive Less I Ride Public Transit J Use a 

Handmower I Telecommute I Rollerblade to the 

Office I Replace your Car's Air Filter I Vanpool f 

Trip-Link I Take a Bus I Use Non-Oil-Based 

Paints I Ride your Bike to School f Obey Speed 

·Limits I Go by BART I Use Non-Polluting 

Consumer Products I Carpool I Bring your 

Lunch to Work I Keep you Car Well Tuned I 

Turn on Fans not Air Conditioners I Commute 

by Ferry I Encourage Friends & Neighbors to be 

Clean Air Citzens Too! 

D Return to Spare tbe Air home page 

D Comprehensive links to Bay Area transit and commute alternatives 

1 of 1 08/05/96 17:21 

A Day in the Ufe of Ozone 

1 of 2 

A Day in the Life of Ozone 

) 

...... :~ -· .... ~:!· 

. . EARLY 

MORNING 

·LATE 

MORNING 

~ --. . . .... : ... : .. :: .. : ... - I •. -•. -· 

. --·- -----

. MIDAFrERNOON 

--- 1 t'tl't .... ... . . . .. . . ..... . ! .. · I 

LATE 

AFTERNOON 

The formation of Although the y mid-afternoon, As the intensity 

ground-level ozon morning commute the sun has of the sunlight 

gets started early is over, continued reached its apex decreases, the 

in the morning. As c emmissions and temperatures photochemical 

we begin the day's added to the peak. The sun's production 

activities practi- earlier pollution radi&tion will , · process also 

cally everything w egins to form · cause a chemical decreases. By 

do, from plugging ozone as the sun's reaction between late afternoon, 

in the toaster to heat and light the reactive hydr most of the ozon 

driving our cars intensifies. During carbons. and fonned during 

to work, generates summer nitrogeh oxides the day breaks 

ozone-forming months, an inver- o form ozone. down into other 

air pollution. The sion may develop emperatures in compounds, and 

most significant ·ch traps the e 90's or above y early evening 

of these ozone pollutants close are required for the ground-level 

"precursors• are o the ground ( 400- maximum ozone ozone is essenreactive hydro- 500 feet above concentrations. tially destroyed. 

carbons and sea leVel). If there 

nitrogen oxides. · little wind, the 

Vehicular traffic pollution disperis by far their sion may be 

1 est source. er restricted. 

Cl Return to the Spare the Air home page 

Cl Health effects of ozone 

Cl Air Quality Forecasting- How it's done 

08/05/96 17:2(] 

The ?oUutant Standards lndax 

J.. I~ 

http:J/www.apanthuit.crgipsiJtt 

1 of 1 

Air Quality Reporting - What the numbers 

mean. 

The Pollutant Standards Index (PSI) was developed by the EPA in the late 1970's to 

·standardize air pollution reporting and to allow for air quality comparisons between different 

geographical areas. The PSI convens air pollution concentrat;ons to simple values ranging from 

zero to 500. The PSI values are graded into levels, which are identified by descriptors relevant 

to human health. The index value of 100 was selected to correspond to the shon-tenn (24 

hour or less) National Ambient Air Quality Standard set by EPA to represent the concentration 

of a pollutant below which adverse health effects have not been observed. 

Health research of the past two decades has challenged the National Standard for ozone. The 

state of California places the health-based standard for ozone at PSI 75 which equates to 0.09 

parts per million in the ambient air. 

The Bay Area Air Quality Mangement District issues a Span the Air advisory when ozone 

concentrations are predicted to reach or exceed 0.1 pans ~er million, which corresponds to a 

PSI of83, the point at which the California health-based standard is violated. 

PSI CONVERSION TABLE 

Ozone Carbon MonoJ:ide 

Descriptor PSI Range 

1 hr., ppm 8 hr., ppm 

Good lo- so 1.00- .06 1.00- 4.S 

!Moderate I SI - 100 .07 - .12 4.6- 9.0 

!unhealthful j 101 - 199 .13 •. 19 9.1 - 14.9 

Ivery Unh10. j!200-299 1.2 0- .39 I 1s.o. 29.9 

!Hazardous 300 &.Above .40+ 30.0+ 

o ReturntoSparetheAirhomepage 

o Healtb effects of ozone 

D Air guelity forecastig-How it's done 

D 1996 Box Scores • Ozone excesses 

PM10 

24 hr., uglm3 

lo-so 

ls1 - 150 

l1s1 - 349 

11350 - 419 

420-499 

Yard work is a non-po1"'ting activity provided yoa 'n not using 

gas-powettd gardening 11U1Chines. POWO' mowers, shredden, 

leaf-blawa and similar tools an responsible for almost 48 tons of air 

polllltion in the Bay Ana on a typical sammer day. On a Span the 

Air Day the choice is clelll': EI11fER p11t the job off for a day when 

better air quality is pretBcted OR push the mown' by hand. 

I 

I 

I 

08/05/96 17:17: 

Air Quaiity Forecasting for the Bay Area 

d. If 

htti) :J lwww. ;oaretheait .or;Jm.t Jtt 

1 of 1 

Air Quality Forecasting 

Forecasting Ozone at the Bay Area Air Quality Management District 

The Meteorology and Data Analysis Section of Technical Services is responsible for all air pollution 

forecasting done by the Bay Area Air Quality Management District. We have over 30 years experience 

with four meteorologists who are responsible for issuing air pollution forecasts twice a day and on special 

requests. One of our products is the advisory Spare the Air when ozone is expected to ~each or exceed a 

warning level set by the District." 

We gather weather information from several sources such as the National Weather Service, private 

companies, and our own meteorology and air pollution measuring equipment. Our data include weather · 

observations of sky cover, rain, temperature, winds, and air pressure from airports, special weather 

towers and private companies. We also receive satellite and weather radar pictures, computer weather 

forecasts, and weather discussions from other forecasting places. Finally, we have prepared several 

studies on the weather patterns most likely to happen in the Bay Area on any given day. 

The first task for our forecasters is to take this data and make a forecast for the Bay Area. We prepare a 

list of the most important observations, compare those against.our studies, analyze the pictures, and, 

finally, make a Bay Area forecast for the next three days. Then we collect and list the air pollution 

readings for the day of the forecast and the past two or three days. We compare these reading against 

other forecast aides and studies that we have.developed for ail pollutiou levels and especially ozone. 

Using our extensive experience, we combine all the useful infonnation that we have gathered or analyzed 

over several hours and, then, forecast the ozone levels for the current day and the next few. days. If ozone 

levels are high enough, we will send out a Spare the Air Advisory and list those places in the Bay Area 

that are most likely to be affected. 

O Return to Spare the Air home page 

o The Pollutant Standards Index - What the numbers mean 

o 1996 Box Scores - Ozone excesses 

D Current Satellite Weather Picture 

TRIPLINK ! If you must use your ctll', try to plan your activities so that several 

trips can be Unked together. Automobiles pollute most dllring the jint few miles 

of driving, a the engine wtll'ms up. You can cut down on these po/lilting "cold 

starts" by trip linking. 

08/05/96 17:16: 

Telecommute to Spare the Alt 

1 of 2 

Telecommute to help 

Spa,.,_ ~li1. ;4z,. 

Spare the Air the Easy Way .... 

Work from Home! 

Register 

Now! 

Stay home 

and 

be counted! 

(survey) 

Help the Bay Area hang on to the honor of having the cleanest air of any metropoutan.;area 

in the counay. Pledge now to telecommute as often as possible on those days when smog. 

is expected to reach unhealthful levels. 

Some 60% of air pollution comes from cars - most of that is emitted when we tum the 

ignition key in the morning. 

Telecommuting means never having to tum the key! 

If enough of us participate, we can prevent tons of junk from getting into pur air. 

Please register so we can advise you when a ~pare the Air Day is predicted and so we can 

provide data to the Bay Area Air Quality Management District on how many automobile 

trips we telecommuters are eliminating. 

o Register Now!· 

o Where do I find the survey I got email about? 

o More info on Telecommute to Spare'the Air 

o Spare the Air -Bay Area Air Quality Management Disttjct. 

Telecommuting Resources 

o BATS-Bay Area Transportation Source. comprehensive links to commute alternatives 

in the Bay Area 

o AT&T On the Go 

o Pacific Bell Telecommuting Solutions 

o -Bay Area Telecommuting Assistance Project 

08/12196 11:0i 
~<go . ·_-:.-.. - - =:_.:.:~--

TeieC:ommut• to Span the Air hni>:l/www.fti.org/tctoso•'-

o On-line Telecommuting Resourc.es from Smart Valley 

This page was developed by Smart Valley. Inc .. as part of Smart Valley's Telecommuting Initiative. Send 

comments to webmaster@svi.org. 
PROGR.4.Af PROFILE-SAN JOAQUN v:1.LL£r. CA 

Episodic Control Program Profile-San Joaquin Valley, CA 

BASIC INFORMATION 

Program Name: 

Area of Coverage: 

Main Pollutant(s) Targeted: 

Attainment Status (COIPM1o/03): 

Implementing Agency: 

Start Date: 

Program Goals (Ranked) 

Program required by law? 

Is the program enforceable? 

Funding and Administration 

1996 Budget: $328,783 

Spare the Air 

San Joaquin Valley, Central CA 

03 

Nonattainment for 03, PM10 & CO (City of Fresno 

only) 

San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District 

1996 

1. Public Education 

2. To attain air quality standards (NAAQS) 

3. Health Benefits 

No 

No 

Funding Source(s): State OMV funds 

# Full-time equivalent staff at the main agency 

Paid 

2.S 

1.S 

Voluriteer Total 

2.5 

# Full-time equivalent staff at other affiliated agencies 1.5 

Public Outreach 

Methods used to inform the public about the program 

• Television advertisements 

• Radio advertisements · 

• Newspaper advertisements 

• Billboard advertisements 

• Public education booths at community events 

• Crean~ and disceminarion of public education materials 

• Provide information to participating employees through their employers 

Describe the most effective part of the public outreach program: One method that has been 

particularly effective is having the local television meteorologists mentioning the program during 

the weather forecast. 

The public education program is a two tiered approach, focused on ( l) educating the public on 

what needs to be done when a alert day is called and (2) ensuring that the public knows when 

alert days have been called. To this end, billboard, radio and TV spots have been used. 

1 
PROGRAM PROFILE-SAN JOAQL1N VALLEY. CA 

Employers have also been provided with posters, fliers and brochures for distribution to 

employees. 

Episode Day Actions Recommended by the Program 

• Use alternative modes of tranSPOrtation (car/vanpools. transit. etc) instead of driving alone 

• Combine multiple auto trips throughout the day 

• Avoid using gasoline-powered garden equipment (lawnmowers, blowers, etc) 

• Avoid using charcoal lighter fluid 

• Avoid household maintenance activities that produce emissions (painting. degreasing, etc) 

Discuss any unique control measures included in the program: 

• ~aerosol use 

• RedW:e recreational vehicle use 

Participation & Incentives 

• General public 

• 65 Employers signed-up. Another 1 lO are interested but haven't committed yet. 

Incentives to Encourage Participation 

General Public: 

Companies: 

Employees: 

None 

Public recopition; and awareness materials for employees: decals, 

posters, brochures, note pads. Employers also receive a certificate that 

states they are a "Founding· Partner." · 

Pens. trip-linkirtg notepads, post-it notes, mousepads, decals with the 

program logo and ,"stop" stickers to place on pollution-causing products 

(aerosols, paint. etc.) to remind people what not to do on Spare the Air 

days. The stickers state "Don't forget to Spare the Air. Call 1-800-

SMOG-INFO". This is our air quality hotline with daily information 

including the Spare the Air day status. 

Forecasting Pollution Episode Days 

Weather forecaster & Pollution: 

Parameters Examined: 

Criteria to setting forecast day: 

Method used to forecast day: 

Accuracy: 

California Air Resources Board (ARB) & APCD 

NOx. CO; and 03 cones; pressure gradient, inversion 

strength, surface temperature 

PSI > ·113 + the appropriate meteorological conditions (high 

temps, low winds, high pressure, etc) 

An algorithm-based computer model is Used to calculate the 

PSI value. This factor plus meteorological intuition are 

used.· 

Not very accurate due to changes in emission patterns. 

Actual data on accuracy are not available. 

2 
Notification Mechanisms 

• 

• 

• 

• 

Television stations 

Radio stations 

Newspapers 

Employers 

PROGRAM PROFILE-SAN jo'rl.QC!.Y VALLEY. Cl 

Method of notification: fax 

Method of notification : fax 

.\tfethod of notification : fax 

Method of notification : fax 

The program is entering its first season so they are not sure how the media Will report the 

information to the public. The program has produced a radio and TV spot ul"both Spanish and 

English and provided it to all media outlets with a request to pla., it. on Spare the Air days. We 

are also working with the print media to find an appropriate place for a small announcement of 

episode days. 

Program Evaluation 

Data Collected: This is the first year of the program ·SO data bas not been collected yet. 

The program is planning OD conducting a random phone survey after the 

first season (in the fall). 

Other Data Desired: n/a 

Analysis of Data: n/a 

Emission Estimated: n/a 

Emiss reduction per participant n/a 

Cost per participant n/a 

Emission Reduction Ratio: n/a 

Main problems or pitfalls encountered dUring the implementation of the program: The northern 

region of the district receives its television news from the Sacramento area, located in the air basin 

to the north. · We are currently working to solve this proqlem of overlap, and successfully educate 

this community about the differences between our program and the Sacramento air district's 

Spare the Air program. 

Parts of the program that have been the most succ.essful: They have been able to pick up the 

contacts made through our now-repealed Trip Reduction Mandate. Many employers wanted us 

to continue some type of commute alternative program, and this program "fits the shoe." 

Noteworthy aspects of the program: 

• This program is modeled after the San Francisco Bay Areas and Sacramento· Spare the Air 

programs. The Sacramento program borrowed materials and information extensively from 

these two programs .. 

• This program coordinates with both the Sacramento and San Francisco programs by notifying 

them when an ozone episode day is declared~ Also each program has links on their Internet 

web pages to the other two programs. . 

• Significant . energy and resources will be spent to encourage participation of employers and 

their employees. 

• The program's materials (notification posters, educational posters, flyers and brochures) are 

either in both Spanish or English or hav~ a· Spanish version. 

j 

PROGRAM PROFILE - SEA.rTLE. WA (OZONE) 

Episodic Control Program Profile - Seattle, WA (Ozone) 

BASIC INFORMATION 

Program Name: Smog Watch 

Area of Coverage: Seattle, WA 

Main Pollutant(s) Targeted: 03 

Attainment Status (CO I PM10 I 03): Nonattainment for CO, PMIO and 03 (Petitioning 

for CO & 03 re-designation) 

Implementing Agency: Puget Sound Air Pollution Control Agency 

(PSAPCA) 

Start Date: 1996 

Program Goals (Ranked) 

Program required by law? 

Is the program enforceable? 

Funding and Administration 

1996 Budget: No special budget 

l. To maintain the attainment status of the area 

2. Economic benefits of staying in ·attainment 

3. Public Education 

No 

No 

Funding Source(s): n/a 

# Full-time equivalent staff at the main agency 

fllil 

7 

volunteer Tutal 

7 

# Full-time equivalent staff at other affiliated agencie.f 

Public Outreach 

Methods used to inform the public about the.program 

( 

• Radio advertisements 

• Billboard advertisements (transit ads) 

• Provide information to participating employees through their employers 

0 

( 

Describe the most effective part of the public outreach program: Employer network is the most 

effective public outreach method. 

Episode Day Actions Recommended by the Program 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

Use alternative modes oftraDSpOrtation (car/vanpools, transit, etc) instead of driving alone 

Combine multiple auto trips throughout the day 

Work ftOm home (telecommute) 

A void refueling until the evening (i.e .• after 6 p.m.) 

Change work schedules to avoid the commute 

Avoid using gasoline-powered garden equipment (lawnmowers. blowers, ete) 
PROGRAM PROF!LE-SEAITLE. WA (OZONE) 

• Avoid using charcoal lighter fluid · 

• Postpone fleet refueling until evening (companies) 

Participation & Incentives 

• General public 

• Companies 

Incentives to Encourage Participation 

General Public: No incentives are provided 

Companies: No incentives are provided 

Employees: Boeing offers free bus passes to employees on pollution episode days. 

Forecasting Pollution Episode Days 

Weather forecaster & Pollution: 

Parameters Examined: 

Criteria to setting forecast day: 

Method used to forecast day: 

Accuracy: 

Notification Mechanisms 

• 

• 

• 

Television stations 

Radio stations 

Participating employers 

National Weather Service, PSAPCD 

Current meteorological conditions and forecasts, wind 

patterns, inversions, monitoring network data 

Measured 03 concentrations> 0.08 ppm (I-hr max)+ 

inversion conditions+ light offshore winds + temp > 87deg 

+ no weather fronts expected over the next 48 hours. 

Based on meteorological intuition. 

Too soon to tell. This is the. first year of the program. 

Method of nt)tijicalion : fax 

Method of notification : fax 

Method of notifteation : fax 

Television stations mention the pollution episode day in the news' and the weather reports. Radio 

stations also included it in news stories. · 

Program Evaluation 

Data Collected: Telephone surveys (in 1993 & 1995) have been conducted to 

collect data on air pollution awareness and the effectiveness of the 

public outreach program. No data on behavioral ch~ges has been 

collected. 

Other Data Desired: Yes, data on whether or not people take actions-based on Smog Watch 

messages would be valuable 

Analysis of Data: Yes, the survey data showed that awareness of air pollution issues is 

increasing. This is being ~ttributed, at least partially, to the public 

education campaign. 

Emission Estimated: No 

Emiss reduction per participant: n/a 

Cost per participant: n/a 

Emission Reduction Ratio: n/a 

2 
PROGRAM PROFILE - SEA.ITLE. WA rOZONEJ 

Pu!Jlic opinion surveys were conducted in 1993 and 1995; the surveys indicated that more 

participants knew about PSAPCA in 1995 (12%) than in 1993 (2%) and most gave the agency a 

positive rating. The phone survey results. which were stratified by age, sex and county of 

residence, indicated that more residents expressed concern regarding the 'seriousness of air 

pollution' in the Puget Sound area in 1995 (75%) than in 1993 (63%); however, most people 

believe that their neighborhood air quality was good (46%) or excellent (27%). Nearly half of 

the respondents recalled hearing air pollution advertisements. 15% recalled carpooling ads and 

2% mentioned the "good neighbors don't smoke" campaign Another 60 respondents recalled 

the good neighbors ad when prompted; only 16 recalled hearing L.e Heat=Smog radio ad. 

Residents blamed automobile emissions as the main cause of air pollutio~ and consider hot, still 

weather as more detrimental than cold, still conditions. Burning in woodstoves, fireplaces was 

ranked fi~ after automobile emissions, emissions from diesel trucks and buses, emissions from 

industry and business, and population growth. Respondents have also become less willing to see 

government intervention to prevent air pollutio~ but more (87%) would voluntarily avoid 

burning. In 1995, 22% suggested tighter emission standards for all woodstoves as compared to 

13% in 1993. One third of the survey participants agreed that they would use their vehicles less 

frequently if they knew that reductions could lead to significant air quality improvements; 

however, this number was down from 37% in 1993. 

· Main problems or pitfalls encountered during the implementation of the program: There 

program has just started so no serious problems have been encountered yet. 

Parts of the program that have been the most successful: Too early to tell. 

Noteworthy aspects of the program: Bi-annual surveys are planned to collect data on awareness 

of local air pollution issues and on the Smog Watch program itself. Behavioral questions will be 

included in the next survey ( 1997) to give the program an indication of how effective it is at 

changing people's behavior on days of poor air quality., 

3 

PROGRAAf PROFILE-SEATTLE. WA (?.'vf:.v 

Episodic Control Program Profile-Seattle, WA (PM10) 

BASIC INFORMATION 

Program Name: 

Area of Coverage: 

Main Pollutant(s) Targeted: 

Woodsmoke Curtailment 

Seattle, WA 

PM 

Attainment Status (CO/PMw'03): 

Implementing Agency: 

Nonattainment for CO, PM10 and 03 

Puget Sound Air Pollution Control Agency 

(PSAPCA) 

Start Date: 1987 

Program Goals (Ranked) 1. To attain air quality standards (NAAQS) 

Program required by law? 

Is the program enforceable? 

Funding and Administration 

2. Health Benefits 

3. Public Education 

Yes (RCW 70.94.473) 

Yes 

1996 Budget: $900,000 (includes air monitoring) Funding Source(s): State woodstove fees 

# Full-time equivalent staff at the main agency 

# Full-time equivalent staff at other affiliated agencies 

Public Outreach 

Methods used to infonn the public about the program 

• Radio advenisements 

• Newspaper advertisements 

• Workshops (for school. industry, the public) 

• Public education booths at community events 

Paid 

10 

0 

• Creation and dissemination of public education materials (direct mailings) 

• Provide information to participating employees through their employers 

Volunteer Total 

10 

0 

Describe the most effective part of the public outreach program: As a result of a public opinion 

survey conducted in 1993, PSAPCA has developed a focused public education program in 

Marysville, Snohomish County. A partnership has been fonned with the American Lung 

Association, Washington Natural Gas., Snohomish County P.U.D. and the Northwest Hearth 

Products Association to increase awareness of the woodsmoke problem and the associated health 

effects in Marysville. Many residents in this area use woodstoves as their primary sour<:e of heat, 

have the highest electric rates in the state, and are in the fastest· growing county in the state yet 

consider themselves living in a rural community and are not convinced that urban problems, like 

air pollution, are a result of their individual choices. The public education project included a 

1 
PROGRAM PROFILE-SEATTLE. ff:.4 rPM1o) 

direct-mailing to 13,500 homes. provisions for discounts on new natural gas, pellet or certified 

woodstoves. participation in a community safety fair, presentations to local schools and 

community groups and additional advertising in area newspapers and local radio stations. 

Analysis of monitoring data has shown decreased ambient concentrations in the Marysville area in 

comparison to other communities which is a reversal from previous years. Furthermore, the 

direct mailing has generated 307 information requests which corresponds to a response rate 

slightly over 2% (0.5% is considered a good response for direct mail marketing). 

Episode Day Actions Recommended by the Program 

• Avoid the used of wood stoves and fireplaces 

• No outdoor burning · 

Participation & Incentives 

• General public 

Incentives to Encourage Participation 

General Public: Woodstove trade-ins· for cleaner-burning gas stoves 

Forecasting Pollution Episode Days 

Weather forecaster & Pollution: 

Parameters Examined: 

Criteria to setting forecast day: 

Method used to forecast day: 

Accuracy: 

Notification Mechanisms 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

Television stations 

Radio stations 

Newspapers 

Fire Departments 

National Weather Service 

National Weather Service, PSAPCD 

·PM10 concentrations,·meteorological stagnation 

Combination of meteorological stagnation and PM1o values 

(24 hr) above 75 ug/m3. 

Persistence and meteorological intuition are used. State law 

requires that wood burning be curtailed when PM10 

concentrations reach one-half of the federal 24-hour PM10 

standard (150 ug/m3). 

The progrlm has not exceeded the PM10 standard since it 

was instituted. 

· Method of notification: fax 

Method of notification: fax . 

Method of notification: fax 

Method of notification : fax 

Method of notification: fax 

Television stations mention the pollution episode day in the news ancl the weather reports .. 

Newspapers infonn the public by making mention of it in articles and by including it with the 

Pollutant Standard Index (PSI) report. Radio stations included it in news stories and by DJ's. 

2 
PROGR.AAf PROFTLE-SEAITLE. W..t rP.\1.:o) 

Program Evaluation 

Data Collected: ( ~) Ambient monitoring data (collected with a network of nine monitoring 

sites that are maintained by PSAPCA): (2) Wood stove/ fireplace usage 

data and general air pollution awareness data (collected by telephone 

surveys conducted on the general public in 1993 and in 1995)~ (3) 

Woodsmoke complaint data 

Other Data Desired: No 

Analysis of Data: University of Washington performed statistical analysis of ambient 

monitoring data. 

Emission Estimated: The analysis showed that PM10 emissions have reduced by 30%. 

Emiss reduction per participant: Not calculated. 

Cost per participant: Not calculated. 

Emission Reduction Ratio: Not calculated. 

Public opinion surveys were conducted in 1993 and 1995; the surveys indicated that more 

participants knew about PSAPCA in 1995 (12%) than in 1993 (2%) and most gave the agency a 

positive rating. The phone survey results. which were stratified by age, sex and county of 

residence. indicated that more residents expressed concern regarding the "seriousness of air 

pollution" in the Puget Sound area in 1995 (75%) than in 1993 (63%); however, most people 

believe that their neighborhood air quality was good ( 46%) or excellent (2'1°/o ). Nearly half of the 

respondents recalled hearing air pollution advertisements. 15% recalled carpooling ads and 2% 

mentioned the "good neighbors don't smoke" campaign Another 60 respondents recalled the 

good neighbors ad when prompted; only 16 recalled hearing the Heat=Smog radio ad. 

Residents blamed automobile emissions as the main cause of air pollution. and consider hot. still 

weather as more detrimental than cold, still conditions. Burning in woodstoves, fireplaces was 

ranked fifth, after automobile emissions, emissions from diesel trucks and buses, emissions from 

industry and busine~ and population growth. Respondents have also become less willing to see 

government intervention to prevent. air pollution, but more (87%) would voluntarily.avoid 

burnirig. In 1995, 22% suggested tighter emission standards for all woodstoves as compared to 

13 % in 1993. One third of the survey participants agreed that they would use their vehicles less 

frequently if they knew that reductions could lead to significant air quality improvements; 

however, this number was down from 3 '1°/o in 1993. 

Main problems or pitfalls encountered during the implementation of the program: There is no 

political support for woodsmoke, but there is support for people who bum wood. Need to assure 

that the public outreach does not depict people who bum wood for heat 8:5 the problem. This was 

not clear initially in the program. Now we specifically discuss wood smoke as the issue and we 

discuss several ways that wood smoke can be minimized. 

Parts of the program that have been the most successful: · 

• The number of woodstoves in use have declined 

• Fewer citizen complaints about woodsmoke 

• The number of burn-~an days has declined 

• ~ong-term PM air quality improvement has been realized 

3 
PROGRAM PROFILE-SEATTLE. WA rP.H1oJ 

Noteworthy aspects of the program: 

• This program uses an advanced system of air monitoring and modeling to make its "No 

Bum" day determinations. It coordinates with the National Weather Service and the 

University of Washington on its monitoring and forecasting. 

• The program has an extensive network of nine air monitoring sites which measure pollutant 

concentrations. This network is costly to maintain (approximately $300,000/yr) but provides 

the PSAPCA with the data necessary to make accurate "No Bum" day determinations. 

• In addition to the public education efforts made throughout the whole district, the PSAPCD 

has made special efforts to target selected communities which aren't as responsive to wood 

burning curtailment. The chosen communities received extra media exposure and were given 

special incentives to participate (i.e. discounts on a new natural gas, pellet, or EPA-certified 

wood stove). Significant emission reductions have been recorded at monitoring sites in these 

communities since the start of the program. 

• ·The PSAPCA woodsmoke curtailment program is one of the few to have performed analyses 

to quantify the emissions benefits of the program. 

4 
PROGP.A!11f PROFlLE-SPOKA..;VE. ;v.~ 

Episodic Control Program Profile-Spokane, WA 

BASIC INFORMATION 

Program Name: Wood Stove Burning/Curtailment Program 

Area of Coverage: Spokane County, WA 

Main Pollutant(s) Targeted: PM10 

Attainment Status (CO I PM10 I 03): Nonanainment for PM'10 and CO 

Implementing Agency: Spokane County Air Pollution Control Authority(SCAPCA) 

Stan Date: 1987 

Program Goals (Ranked) l. Public education 

2. To attain air quality.standards (NAAQS) 

3. Health benefits 

Program required by law? yes 

Is the program enforceable? yes 

Funding and Administration 

1996 Budget: $54,000 Funding Source(s): Sica.te and local funds 

# Full-time equivalent staff at the main agency . 

# Full-time equivalent staff at other affiliated agencies 

Public Outreach 

Methods used to infonn the public about the program 

• Television advertisements 

• Radio advertisements 

• Newspaper advertisements 

• Public education booths at commu¢ty evems 

• Creation and dissemination of public education materials 

• Violators are given written material 

Paid 

1.0 

Volunteer Total 

l.O 

0 

Describe the most effective part of the public outreach program: No one outr~h method has 

been mosi effective. The combination of approaches seems to work well. 

Episode Day Actions Recommended by the Program 

• Avoid the use of wood stoves and fireplaces 

Stage l: Only EPA certified/approced devices can be ope~ unless exemption granted 

Stage 2: No burning unless a written exemption has been granted 

• Use wood stoves properly to avoid excessive smoke 

I 
· Participation & Incentives 

• General public 

PROGRAM PROF!LE-SPOK.A.VE. W~ 

Incentives to Encourage Participation 

General Public : No incentives are being offered. 

Forecasting Pollution Episode Days 

Weather forecaster & Pollution: 

.Parameters Examined: 

Criteria to setting forecast day: 

Method used to forecast day: 

Accuracy: 

Notification Mechanisms 

• Television stations 

• Radio stations 

• Newspapers 

• Telephone hot line 

National Weather Service. SCAPCA 

PM1o concentrations (TEOM data), various weather 

parameters 

PM 10 trigger value established by state law 

Reaching a PM10 trigger value in conjunction with 

persistent high pressure poor weather systems. If PM 10 

PSI > 63 is measured. then all noncenified wood stoves are 

banned. If PM10 PSI> 105, then all burning is banned. 

Data not available. 

Method of notification : fax 

Method of notification : fax 

Method of notification : fax 

T elevi_sion stations broadcast a public service announc~ent about the alert day and mention it in 

t~e weather reports. Newspapers include it with the Pollutant Standard Index (PSI) report. 

Radio station DJ's make announcements over the air waves. 

Program Evaluation 

Data Collected: Wood stove and fireplace usage data (collected from telephone sur· ... eys); 

air quality data. and the number of calls into the hotline. 

Other Data Desired: Y ~ more frequent surveys on wood stove and fireplace usage 

Analysis of Data: Yes 

Emission EstimatCd· nla 

Emiss reduction per participant: n/a 

Cost per participant: nla 

Emission Reduction Ratio: o/a 

Public opinion surveys and focus groups were conducted in 1993 to investigate the current 

knowledge and attitudes prevalent in Spokan~ to detennine the willingness of residents to 

participate in the program. and to determine what motivating factors would exist for local' 

residents. The studies found that environmental (64%) and air qt~ality issues are imponant and air 

quality was ranked the most important environmental program. While people ( 15%) were not 

2 
PROGRAA1 PROFILE-SPOKA. \"E. WA 

familiar with SCAPCA. most people (-90%) were ,familiar with the color (green, yellow, red) 

wood burning restriction program and correctly identified the appropriate actions to take during 

ban days. People noted that the TV was their best.information source, but most (70%) also knew 

of the phone hotline. Overall, people were not convinced that wood stoves were a significant 

source of pollution in the area, ranking sources such as auto exhaust. industrial plants. diesel 

exhaust. paved and unpaved roads and agricultural dust as more significant sources. However, 

60% thought that people were following the wood burning restrictions~ When asked what would 

motivate the participant in the focus groups to reduce wood burning, they stated an education 

approach based on factual information and a demonstration that individuals (esp. those using 

wood burning stoves) were the largest source of emissions in Spokane would help to motivate 

them to reduce wood burning. 

Main problems or pitfalls encountered during the implementation of the program: Enforcement 

is difficult considering that there are tens of thousands of woodstoves and a limited field staff. 

Num~rous exemptions are needed for people with an inadequate alternative source of heat. 

Parts of the program that have been the most successful: We are especially proud of our 

education and outreach efforts. The news media have been very cooperative. 

Noteworthy aspects of the program: 

• Program started off as a voluntary program but became mandatory with the passage of the 

state wood burning ban law. 

• The program is a SIP requirement, so the state and EPA evaluate it periodically. 

• Administrators of the program estimate a 70-80% compliance rate by the general public when 

a no-bum day is declared. 

3 

PROGRA!vf PROFILE-ST. LOC!S .. 'vfO 

Episodic Control Program Profile-St. Louis, MO 

BASIC INFORMATION 

Program Name: 

Area of Coverage: 

Main Pollutant(s) Targeted: 

St. Louis RegionaJ Clean Air Partnership 

St. Louis, MO-IL Nonanainment Area 

ozone 

Attainment Status (CO/PMI0/03): Moderate nonattainment - ozone 

Implementing Agency: 

Stan Date: 

CoaJition of business, government, nonprofits 

Spring 1995 

Program GoaJs (Ranked) I. Public Education 

2. Attain AQ standards 

Program required by law? 

Is the program enforceable? 

3. HeaJth Benefits I Economic Benefits 

No 

No 

Funding and Administration 

1996 Budget: n/a Funding Source(s): n/a 

# Full-time equivalent staff at the main agency 

# Full-time equivalent staff at other affiliated agencies 

Public Outreach 

Methods used to infonn the public about the program 

• Television PSAs 

• Radio interviews 

• Newspaper articles 

• Billboard advertisements -

• Internet web site (http://wuche.wustl.edu/-tumer/slrcap.html) 

• Workshops (for schools. industry. public) 

• Public: education booths at community events 

• Creation and dissemination of public cduc:ation materials 

Pajd 

6-8 

0 

• Provide information to participating employees through their employers 

• Exhibits at public locations such as botanitcal gardens & science center 

• Highway message boards 

• Movie theater spots 

Describe the most effective part of the public outreach program: n/a 

I 

Volunteer . Total 

6-8 

: 0 
PROGRAM PROFlLE~T. LOCIS .. \,,fQ 

Episode Day Actions Recommended by the Program 

• Avoid driving at lunch time (take lunch to school or work) 

• Use alternative modes of uansportation (car/vanpools. transit etc) instead of driving alone 

• Keep vehicle tuned up · 

• Combine multiple auto trips throughout the day 

• Work from home (telecommute) 

• Avoid refueling until the evening (after 6 pm) & don't top off 

• Keep travel speeds at the speed limit and steady 

• Change work schedules to avoid the commute 

• Avoid using gasoline powered garden equipment 

• Avoid using charcoal lighter fluid 

• Avoid household maintenance activities (painting) 

• PostpOne fleet refueling until evening 

• Use conferencing technologies instead of face to face meetings 

Discuss any unique control measures included in the program: nla · 

Participation & Incentives 

• Employers 

• Generai public 

• Stationaiy Sources 

Incentives to Encourage Participation 

General Public : n/a 

Coinpani~ n/a 

Employees: n/a 

free or discounted transit 

Free or discounted lunches 

Flexible work schedule 

Preferential parking for car/vanpools 

Guaranteed emergency ride home for employees who car/vanpool/transit 

Forecasting Pollution Episode Days 

Weather forecaster & Pollution: 

Parameters Examined: 

Criteria to setting forecast day: 

Method used to forecast day: 

Accuracy: 

Notification Mechanisms 

• Television stations 

• Radio stations 

• Newspapers 

• Stationaiy Sources 

• Emplo~ers 

KMOV-TV &. KMOV-TV Gateway Aircast 

n/a 

n/a 

Algorithm based but wi~ meteorological intuition for close 

calls 

n/a 

Method of notification: fax 

Method of notification: fax 

Method of notification: fax 

Method of notification: fax 

Method of notification: fax 

2 
• 

• 

• 

Government Agencies 

Transponation Management Agencies 

State Highway Dept 

PROGRAi\i PROFILE-St. Lor..;1s . .\.10 

.\;/ethod of notification: fax 

Method of notijicarzon: fax 

Method of notificalion : fax 

Television stations mention the alert day in the news reports and in the weather report. Radio 

hosts also make special announcements and mention the air quality status in news reports. The 

newspapers include infonnation with the Pollution Standards Index (PSI) and include infonnation 

in articles. 

Program Evaluation 

Data Collected: 

Other Data Desired: 

Analysis of Data: 

n/a 

n/a 

n/a 

Emission Estimated: n/a 

Emiss reduction per participant: n/a 

Cost per participant: n/a 

Emission Reduction Ratio: n/a 

Main problems or pitfalls encountered during the implementation of che program: n/a 

Parts of the program that have been the most successful: n/a 

3 
3cO~~---
YOUR NAME'a Home Page 

30( httS):JJ~che.wu .11 •••• • tumeriaJrcaQ.htn · 

St. Louis Regional Clean Air Partnership 

Welcome to the Home Page for the St. Louis Regional Clean Air Partnership (SLRCAP). 

• • • The weather continues to provide relief from the extremely hot and humid conditions experienced in 

late August. The week of September 3-9 featured no Ozone.Action Days and no exceedances of the 

federal ozone standard were record~. The 1995 ozone season for St. Louis runs from April 1 - October 

31; exceedances are rarely observed past mid-September. Through September 10, the St. Louis 

nonattainment area experienced twenty ozone exceedances over ten days in 1995. No exceedances were 

· recorded in April or May. Two exceedances were recorded on one day in June while twelve exceedances 

were recorded over five days in July. August brought six exceedances over four days and there have been 

no exceedances in the first two weeks of September. The following graph summarizes the · 

month-by-month trends. ••• (9 AM, 9/11195) 

1 of 2 

a·-· ..... H 

H """'i 

"""'i ~ 

.... 1:t: ~ l J 1 i : : ! j ; : 

t • 

..... ....... ._... 

CLICK HERE TO LEARN ABOUT THE MEASURES YOU CANT AKE. TO HELP CLEAR THE 

AIR.! nns MESSAGE Wil..L BE UPDATED DAIL y~ PLEASE CHECK AGAIN SOON FOR 

ADDmONAL DETAILS. 

SLRCAP Mission, Objectives, and Structure 

MISSION 

The St. Louis Regional Clean Air Partnership (SLRCAP) is a coalition of business, indusny, legislative, 

health, and community organizations in the St. Louis area fonned for the purpose of developing and 

implementing a plan to encourage voluntary volatile organic compound (VOC) emission reductions 

particularly during periods conducive to high levels of ozone fonnation. 

OBJECTIVES 

SLRCAP promotes a variety of programs to encourage voluntary emission reductions particularly on 

days which are conducive tq ozone levels which could exceed the Federal ozone standard. This effort 

complements existing mandated emission reduction measures and· seeks to "shave the peaks" off of high 

ozone levels. Some SLRCAP programs are relatively long-range in scope (e.g., pollution prevention 

workshops to affect industrial practices), while other programs target actions which should be taken 
-- .j U~ 

YOUR NAME'1 Home Page http :J/wuche. wustt •••• - turner /aircao 

~ 

during periods of high ozone levels. SLRCAP will declare Ozone Action Days based on air quality 

forec~ for the St. Louis region .. The partnership will ~~r~ with loc~ business to develop tailored plaru9 

to be unplemented on Ozone Action Days . Several act1vmes also being developed to reach out to the 

public regarding the ~ctions they can take to reduce emissions on Ozone Action Days . 

STRUCTURE 

Partnership activities are coordinated by six work groups. These groups are -

a Business/Industry Deferrals 

a Employee/Public Education and Communication 

a Fleet Emission reduction 

a Ozone Forecast 

a PollutioliPrevention WorlcShops 

a Work Trip Reduction 

MORE INFORMATION 

CJ Ozone Action Days 

a Members and Work Qroup Chairs 

last modified on July JO, 1995 

email conupents to jrtumer@seas.wustl.edu -., 
, .jO'.:S_~ 

We care about ctean air ~:llW"NW .w~.adu. 'zone.'ht' 

1of2 

We care about clean air· 

ALERT: 

An Ozone Action Day has been declared till further notice. 

THE PROBLEM: 

Ozone high in the stratosphere protects us from dangerous sunlight. But near the ground, ozone is a 

harmful pollutant and can cause health problems, especially for children, the elderly and people with 

respiratory ailments. Ground level ozone forms when hydrocarbons mix with nitrogen oxide in sunlight. 

Susceptible individuals (those with allergies, repiratory problems etc.) should take precautions: 

• avoid strenuous excercise 

• remain indoors 

RECOMMENDED ACTIONS: 

The are many things the Washington University community can do to reduce ozone production. 

Suggestions include: 

,. Avoid filling your car or fill up only in the evening, and don't top off your tank. Wait three 

seconds after dispensing fuel before removing the nozzle. 

,. Limit driving and combine trips whenever possible. Avoid excessive idling and abrupt 

acceleration. Stay in for lunch, or walk rather than drive to a restaurant. 

,. Conserve energy whenever possible to reduce demands on power plants. For example, raise your 

office and home thermostat settings and postpone the use of major appliances. 

,. Carpool, ride a bike or walk to work. For information about carpooling, call 93S-S601 (Hilltop 

Campus) or 747-0706 (Medical Campus). 

,. Use a Bi-State bus or ride Metro Link. Special fares will be available on Ozone Action Days. 

Write to them at 707 North First Street, St. Louis, 63102 . 

.. Delay mowing the lawn until evening, or until the action period ends . 

.. Keep all ~c=mal combustion engines tuned up. Have emissions systems checked regularly. 

~ Avoid using 'charcoal lighter fluid . 

.. _ Postpone chores that use oil-based paints, solvents or varnishes. 

~Wear an alert button to help spread the word about the ozone action day. 

,. Wear a "We Care About Clean Air" button every day to support the effort. 

08/05/96 , 6:25: 
jO't 

. We .care about clean air http:J/www.wustf.aduJozone .. 

· Buttons can be obtained by calling 935-5230. 

THE NEWS: 

When an Ozone Action Day is declared, an alert flag will fly from the Brookings flagpole, from the 

flagpole at .. the ~orthean comer of Francis Field on the Hilltop campus, and at the principal parking 

facilities ori·the Med!cal School Campus. 

" Prompts will appear on e-mail, FIS and PROFS. 

" Posters and table tents will be distributed throughout both campuses. 

"The hotline number, 935-0014, will be activated and the campus operators will be informed. 

" Key· communicators will wear alert buttons. 

" The~Washington University Record and other employee communications will provide information. 

"hi.fonnation will be broadcast on KMOV-TV, Channel 4 newscasts in segments called News 4 

Gat~y Aitcasts. 11 

" Ozone Action Days will be announced in the W eatherbird's box on the front page of the St. Louis 

Post-Dispatch. 

"For additional infonnation members of the Washington University community may contact the St. 

Louis Regional Clean Air Partnership at (314) 444-1199. 

· BadcHome 
-- ... ·.--:=...-:. ::·.:J 

OZONEACT10NJTIPSHEET . -5 o~ 

htti>:J/groundho;.ap.~.a,coGIK-5/ticnJT 

1 of 2 

OZONE ACTION! TIP SHEET 

Actions You and Your Family Can Take on Ozone Action! Days . . . 

a Become your family's Ozone Action! expert! Tune in to your favorite radio or 

TV station or call the Ozone Action! Information Hotline after 3:30 p.m. to 

find out if tomorrow is an Ozone Action! day (1-800-66-3~-AIR). :· 1 .. 

' ·. 

CJ Help your family make plans to reduce driving. 

, :.,~. . 

a Ask your mom or dad if it's OK to ride your bicycle or walk with a friend to 

nearby activities instead of being driven in a car. You'll get lots of exercise 

and reduce air 'pollution at the same time! 

CJ When you need to go farther, arrange to carpool with friends and neighbors to 

school activities, movies, sports events and other pl~ces. It will save gas and · 

help clean our air! , 

o Your mom or dad can even carpool to work! Tell them to call Ride$hare at 

313-963-RIDE to find carpool partner5. 

o Remind your mom or dad about Action! tips that will help keep your family's 

car or ~ck from polluting too much. Here are some things they can do: 

o Get regular engine tune-ups. 

CJ Combine trips (to work, school, the grocery store, or other places) 

because a warm engine doesn't pollute as much as a cold one. 

o Try not to idle car (or boat) engines for too long. Idling motors pollute 

the air and waste fuel. 

a Ask parents to be careful when filling the gas tank. Spilled gasoline 

pollutes the air we breathe. 

o Buy low vapor pressure "clean" fuel where available. 

o Buy gasoline the day before an Ozone Action! day, or in the evening after 

6 p.m., if possible. 

CJ Ask your parents to avoid using gasoline-powered garden equipment (like 

-lawnmowers and leafblowers) on Ozone Action! days - or to wait, if possible, 

until after 6 p.m. when cooler temperatures won't cause ozone to form. 

t 08/05/96 17:5~ 

. ~:~ 
jUIQ-. 
PROGRAAJ PROFILE-TOLEDO. OH:· ·-·~ · . 

Episodic Control Program Profile-Toledo, OH 

BASIC INFORMATION 

Program Name: Ozone Action Da~, 

Area of Coverage: 

Main Pollutant(s) Targeted: 

Toledo, OH (Lucas and Wood Counties) 

Ozone 

Attainment Status (CO I PMIO I 03): Attainment for all 

Implementing Agency: 

Start Date: 

Air Quality Task Force of Toledo and Wood 

Counties, City of Toledo Division ofEnv Services 

1994 

Program Goals (Ranked): l . To maintain the attainment status of the area 

2. Economic benefits to the area of staying in 

attainment 

Program required by law? 

Is the program enforceable? 

Funding and Administration 

3. Public education 

No 

Yes 

1996 Budget: $60,200 Funding Source(s): ISTEA (CMAQ}, Local funds 

# Full-time equivalent staff at the main agency 

# Full;.time equivalent staff at other affiliated agencies 

Public Outreach 

Methods used to inform the public about the program 

• Television advertisements 

• Workshops (for school. indusUy, the public) 

• Public education booths at community evenrs 

• Creation and dissemination of public education materials 

~ 

.75 

2 

• Provide information to participating employees through their employers 

Describe most effective part of public outreach program: n/a 

~pisode~ DayActions R_!C~mmended by the Program 

• Avoid driving at lunch time (take lunch to school or work) 

Volunteer Total 

.75 

2 

• Use alternative modes of transportation ( carlvanpools. transit, etc) instead of driving alone 

• Keep vehicle tuned up 

• Combine multiple auto trips throughout the day 

I 
PROGRAlvfPROFllE-TOLEDO.OH 

'• Avoid refueling until the evening (i.e .. after 6 p.m.) 

: • Change work schedules to avoid the commute 

• Avoid using gasoline-powered garden equipment (lawnmowers. blowers. etc) 

• Avoid using charcoal lighter fluid 

• Avoid household maintenance activities that produce emissions (painting. degreasing. etc) 

• Postp0ne fleet refueling until evening (companies> 

• Use conferencing technologies instead of face to face meetings 

• Reduce hiSh-ernitting production acuvities (Stationary Sources) 

• Avoid maintenance activities that produce emissions (painting. degreasing. etc) (Stationary Sources) 

• Postpone landscaping activities (Stationary Soum:s) 

Discuss any unique control measures included in the program: n/a 

P~.rticipation & Incentives 

• General public 

• l S Employers 

• Stationary Sources 

Incentives to Encourage Participation 

General Public: Free transit 

Companies: Public recognition 

Employees: None 

Forecasting Pollution Episode Days 

Weather forecaster & Pollution: 

Parameters Examined: 

Criteria to setting forecast day: 

Method used to forecast day: 

Notification Mechanisms 

• Television stations 

• Radio stations 

• Newspapers 

• Panicipating Stationary Sources 

• Employers 

• Stationary Sources 

• Gas stations 

• Muni_cipalities participating 

in mowing ban 

Ohio Dept of Transportation 

Accu-weather (private forecasting company). 

max and min temp (current and next day), dew point, sky 

cover. wind direction and speed 

n/a 

They use a checklist (e.g., temperature, cloud cover, 

humidity, weather the day before, etc.) but also rely on best 

judgment practices. 

Method of notification : fax 

Method of notification : fax 

Method of notification : fax 

Method of notification: fax 

Method of notification: fax 

Method of notification: fax 

Method of notification: fax. phone 

Method of notification: fax 

Method of notification: fax. phone 

Television stations mention the alert day in the news reports and the weather report but have not 

been airing public service announcements. Newspapers mention the· alert day in a.rticles, 

2 
. . ' 

PROGRAlYf PROFILE-TOLEDO, OH' 

sometimes lengthy features. The program is still working on conveying a consistent message ;~· JJ)'.\;~: through the printed media. Radio stations include the alert day in news stories and DJ's mention:~·'· 

it during their ?roadcasts. A few gas stations alert the public about the episode day through th.e f 

use of gas statJon flags. Some gas stations distribute flyers to all customers, while others place : 

signs on doors and windows. Next year gas stations will display the information with the use of 

gas pump toppers. 

Program EvaJuation 

Data Collected: Surveys, transit ridership levels 

Other Data Desired: n/a 

Analysis of Data: No 

Emission Estimated: n/a 

Emiss reduction per panicipant: n/a 

Cost per panicipant: n/a 

Emission Reduction Ratio: · n/a 

Main problems or pitfalls encountered during the implementation of the program: 

• Staff assigned to the program had other commitments as well. Ideally, one person should 

dedicate themselves to the program. That way preparations for the season can be made in the 

winter and early spring. 

• Unfortunately, no survey or evaluation has ever been done. This will make it difficult to track 

progress. 

Parts of the program that have been the most successful: 

• 'Local media has been very cooperative 

• Local agencies have fully supponed the etfon 

• Surprised at how many people in both counties recognize and understand the program 

·Noteworthy aspects of the program: 

• This program has made a greater effort than most to encourage gas station involvement. 

Participating gas stations inform the public using several methods including gas station flags, 

gas pump toppe~ and by distributing flyers to all customers. · 

3 
310 
PROGRA.\-f PROF!LE-TLI.SA. OK 

Episodic Control Program Profile - Tulsa, OK 

BASIC INFORMA TYON 

Program Name: 

Area of Coverage: 

Main Pollutant(s) Targeted: 

Attainment Status (COIPMI0/03): 

Implementing Agency: 

Stan Date: 

Program Goals (Ranked) 

Program required by law? 

Is the program .enforceable? 

Funding and Administration 

1996 Budget: $122,000 

Ozone Alert 

Tulsa, OK 

Ozone 

Attainment- ozone 

Indian Nations Council of Governments 

June 1991 

l. Health Benefits/Maintain AQ Status 

2. Economic Benefits (A) 

3. Public Education 

No 

No 

Funding Source(s): !STEA, EPA (D.EQ) 

# Full-time equivalent staff at the main agency 

Paid 

1 

Volunteer Total 

l 

# Full-time equivalent staff at other affiliated agencies 2 3 

Public Outreach 

Methods used to inform the public about the program 

• Radio advertisements 

• Public education booths at community events 

• Creation and dissemimtion of public education marerials 

• Provide information to participating employees through their employers 

• School education program 

• Partnenbip with other programs (Earth Day) 

Describe the most effective part of the public outreach program: While the TV and radio media 

efforts have been good, the employer outreach program has probably been more important. 

Contacts in the human resources departments of companies or contacts at a fairly high 

management level have proven to be more effective at distributing outreach information to 

employers than a contact within the environmental department of companies since the HR and top 

managem~cOhtacts have established mechanisms for distribution of infonnation. In addition to 

standarii packets of educational information about the program. INCOG staff are currently 

developing a video explaining how Tulsa's episodic control program works and what individual 

can do to participate. · 

I 

j l / 
PROGIU\1 PROFTLE-nISA. OK 

~pi$~de Day Actions Recommended by the Program 

Avoid driving at lunch time (take lunch to school or work) 

• 

·• 

Use alternative modes of tramp0nation (car/vanpools. transil etc) instead of driving alone 

Keep vehicle tuned up 

• 

•-

• 

Combine multiple auto trips throughout the day 

Avoid refueling until the evening (i.e .• after 6 p.m.) 

Change work schedules to avoid the commute 

. . •. ,.. Avoid using gasoline powered garden equipment until the evening (i.e. after 6 pm) 

• -·· · Postpone fleet refueling until evening (compmies) 

.. 

• 

Use conferencing technologies instead of face to face meetings 

Postpone landscaping activities (Stationary Sources) 

• Switch to cleaner burning fuels (Stationary Sources) 

• Reduce high-emitting production activities & contingency planning (Stationary Sources) 

Discuss any unique control measures included in the program: As part of the Tulsa episodic 

-control program. some local stationary sources have developed their own plans for contingency 

actions for episode days. Most of these plans include actions such as limits on VOC product 

usage (spray painting) and small engine usage (lawn maintenance). Tulsa also has a voluntary 

R VP reduction program which is iri effect in a continuous basis when sources could to opt into 

the program. · 

Participation & Incentives 

• 300 Emplo}rers (-90.000 employees) 

• General public 

• 10-20 Stationary Sources 

Incentives to Encourage Participation 

General Public: Free Transit, Seasonal Express Bus Routs & Jitney Service 

Companies: Public Recognition (Mayor's Cu~trophy to largest promoter of program) 

Employees: Free or discounted transit fares 

Free or discounted lunches 

Flexible work schedules 

Preferential parking for car/vanpools 

Guaranteed. emergency ride home for employees who car/vanpooVtransit 

Forecasting Pollution Episode Days 

Weather forecaster & Pollution: 

Parameters Examined: 

Criteria to setting forecast day: 

Method used to forecast day: 

Accuracy: 

/ 

NWS I Department of Environmental Quality 

Temp, WS, WO, Cloud Cover, Frontal Movement, 

Humidity 

n/a 

Meteorological innlition andEmpirical re!atioQ.ships 

Two exceedances on nonozcine alerf cbys in 5 ~years, one of 

those was on a weekend when alert days are not called 

INCOG is currently examining other methods used to forecast episode days and would eventually 

like to be able to operate a predictive model. 

2 
PROGRAA-f PROFILE-TLISA. OK 

Notification Mechanisms 

• Television stations Method of notification : fax 

• Radio stations Method of notification -~ fax 

• Newspapers Method of notification : fax 

• Employers Method of notification : fax 

• Stationary Sources Method of notification : fax 

• Gas stations Method of notification: fa'(· 

• Local Governments Method of notification: fax 

Television stations mention the alert day in the news reports. in the weather report and in public , · 

service announcements. Radio hosts also make public service announcements. include the air 

quality status in news reports and make special announcements regarding episode days. 

Newspapers display a special Alert logo in the weather box on the front page of the paper arid 

allow space for further announcements and articles. Gas stations also display messages regarding 

episode status on their gas pumps and highway variable message signs are used to display episode 

status information. · 

Program Evaluation 

Data Collected: Transit ridership levels (from transit agency) 

Other Data Desired: Car counts. carpool counts. occupancy rates 

Analysis of Data: None 

Emission Estimated: n/a 

Emiss reduction per participant: n/a 

Cost per participant: n/a \. 

Emission Reduction Ratio: n/a 

Main problems or pitfalls encountered during the implementation of the program:(l) Convincing 

the public that any and all actions to reduce emissions will make a difference, (2) public does not 

agree with ozone standard, espec. l hour averaging, (3) program and media consistency. 

Parts of the program that have been the most successful: Voluntacy R VP Program. Employer 

Notification/Education Program, Media Participation/Public Awaren~ School Education 

Program, Leadership by Public Officials, Strong Support from Corporate Citizens. The success 

· of sustaining and expanding the programs has helped in developing a legislative agenda. 

Noteworthy aspects of the program: The Tulsa program is somewhat unique since Tulsa has been 

the first area in the country to develop a Flexible Attainment Region (FAR) designation~ Tulsa 

was originally classified as a nonattainment area for ozone in the 1980s; however, it was 

redesignationed to attainment for ozone in 1990 after a three year period with no violations. In 

June 1991, Tulsa experienced an exceedance of the ozone NAAQS and developed the Ozone 

Alert program and the FAR agreement to help maintain the attainment status of the area. The 

FAR allows Tulsa to incrementally implement control measures to reduce area emissions. This is 

particularly important in Tulsa sllice the majority of the gas produced for Tulsa's use is developed 

at local refineri~ which,-dl.le to equipment limitations,'cannot produce gas at RVP's below 8.2 

RVP: In addition, since the majority of ozone precursors in the Tulsa metropolitan area-are 

emitted by mobile sourcc;s, the FAR agreement allows the area to devise a strategy aimed motor 

vehicles rather than trying to develop stricter controls on a limited number of stationary sources. 

Under incremental implementation, if Tulsa experiences a new violation of the ozone standard. 

J 
PROGRAlvf PROF!LE-nI.SA.. OK 

SIP response. such as a implementation of a fuel pressure test and Non-SIP responses. such as the 

creation of a Smoking Vehicle Hotline go into effect. Thus the impact of these measures can be 

evaluated over time without the additional ,regulatory impacts of the nonattainment designation. 

4 
PROGRAM PROFlLE-WASHl.VGTON DC 

Episodic Control Program Profile-Washington DC 

BASIC INFORMATION 

Program Name: 

Area of Coverage: 

Main Pollutant(s) Targeted: 

Attainment Status (CO/PMl0/03): 

Implementing Agency: 

Start Date: 

Program Goals (Ranked) 

Program required by law? 

Is the program enforceable? 

Funding and Administration 

1996 Budget: $499,000 

ENDZONE - Partners to ~nd Ground Level Ozone 

Ozone Action Days 

District of Columbia. N orthem Virginia. and Maryland 

suburbs ofD.C. 

Ozone 

Serious nonanainment for ozone ' 

Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments 

·(WashCOG) 

May 1995 

I . Public Education 

2. Health Benefits 

3. Attain Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) 

No 

Yes 

Funding Source(s): 

Maryland DOT- $180,000 

VDRPT (CMAQ funds)- $180,000 

. D.C. Dept~ of Public Works (CMAQ funds) 

- $90,000 

WashCOG - $49,000 

Paid Volunteer Total 

# Full-time equivalent st.aff at the main agency 2 0 2 

# Full-time equivalent st.aff at other affiliated agencies unknown unknown unknown 

Public Outreach -

Methods used to inform the public about the program 

• Provide information to participating-employees through their employers 

• Television advertisements '-- <:;>... 

• , Public education booths· at-community events 

• - ' Creation and dissemination of public education materials 

• Radio advertisements 

• Workshops (for schools, industry, public) 

• Internet web site (www.mwcog.org/mwcog/dep/airqual.html) 

I 
31(o 

PROGR.A..'vf PROFllE-'rVASH!.VGTO;v DC 

Describe the most effective part of the public outreach program: Notification of an episode day 

is faxed to participating employers who are responsible for spreading the work to their employees. 

This has been a particularly effective aspect of the program. MDE also reports ozone messages 

on overhead highway signs throughout the state and maintains a toll-free number to answer the 

public's questions regarding ozone levels. 

Episode Day Actions Recommended by the Program 

• Avoid driving at lunch time (take lunch to school or work) 

• Use alternative modes of transportation (car/vanpools. transit, etc) instead of driving alone 

• Keep vehicle tuned up 

• Combine multiple auto trips throughout the day 

• Work from home (telecommute) 

• Avoid refueling until the evening (i.e .• after 6 p.m.) 

• Avoid using gasoline-powered garden equipment (lawnmowers. blowers. etc) (Area Source) 

• Avoid using charcoal lighter fluid (Area Source) 

• Avoid household maintenance activities that produce emissions (painting. etc.) (Area Source) 

• Postpone fleet refueling until the evening (i.e .• after 6 p.m.) (Companies) 

• Use conferencing technologies instead of face to face meetings (Companies} 

• Reduce high-emitting production activities (Stationary Sources) 

• Avoid.maintenance activities (painting, degreasing, etc) (Stationary Sources) 

• Postpone landscaping activities (lawnmowing, tractor and backhoe use. etc.) (Stationary Sources) 

• Switch to cleaner burning fuels (Stationary Sources) 

Discuss any unique control measures inc/11<.kd in the program'.· n/a 

Partjcipatioo & Incentives 

• 20% of participants are Statiomuy sources 

• 50% of participants are Employers 

• 30% of participants are General Public 

Incentives to Encourage Participation 

General Public: 

Companies: 

Employees: 

Auto repair/tune-up discounts 

Public Recognition 

Free or discounted transit fares 

Flexible work schedules 

Preferential parking for car/vanpools 

2 
PROGRA.i\4 PROP7r.E-WASHINGTO.V DC 

Forecasting Pollution Episode Days 

Weather forecaster & Pollution: 

Parameters examined: 

Criteria for setting forecast day: 

Method used to forecast day: 

Accuracy: 

. Notification Mechanisms 

• Television stations 

• Radio stations 

• Newspapers 

University- of Maryland 

Forecast algori~ b~ on historical climatology and ozone 

monitoring site data/The algorithms are augmented by real time 

data and forecaster expertise. 

A coding system is used: Code Green (good air quality) 0-62 

ppb, Code Yellow (moderate air quality) 63-109 ppb, Code 

. Orange (approaching unhealthful) 110-124 ppb, Code Red 

(unhealthful air quality) greater than or equal to 125 ppb. 

WashCOG reports air quality using the Pollutant Standard 

Index (PSI), a nwnber on a scale ofO to 500. The PSI is then 

reported under "Today's Weather" in the Washington Post. The 

conversion of PSI to the color coded forecast is as follows: 

Code Green - 0 to SO PSI, Code Yellow - 51 to 88 PSI, Code 

Orange - 89 to 99 PSI, Code Red - 1 Oo+ PSI. Ozone 

. concentrations are reported in ppb on the ozone map used to 

illustrate ozone levels throughout the DC area. Forecasts, 

however. are shown using the PSI. 

A team meets the previous afternoon between 2:30 and 3:00, via 

conference caa to determine the next day's action. They meet 

again the next morning before 9:30 to verify the forecast. At 

this time, they can alter the pollution episode forecast if needed. 

Based on the forecast code. the pwblic is asked to take measures. 

to both protect themselves frOm exposure and contribute to 

reducing emissions 

1995 - Predicted the correct code 81 % of the time. 

Method of notification : fax. phone 

Method of notification: fax. phone 

Method of notification : fax 

• Participating Stationary Sources· Method of notification : fax. internet 

• Participating Employers Method of notification : fax. internet 

Fax has been the most effective method of notification. 

Program Evaluation· 

Data collected: Transit ridership levels, employee participation rates provided by 

participating employers, public awareness swvey 

Other Data Desired: NonE 

Analysis of Data: n/a 

Emission Estimated: n/a · 

Emission reduction per participant:n/a 

Cost per participant: n/a 

Emission Reduction Ratio: n/a 

3 

3 I 7 
PROGRAM PROFILE-WASHINGTON DC 

Prior to beginning the program. three surveys were conducted by the Gallup Organization to 

gather information on public perceptions regarding air quality. Survey one, the "General 

Awareness" survey, was designed to gain ~-understanding of the level of public education and 

commitment to air quality issues. The ~econd survey, "Identifying Early Adopters" attempted to 

ascertain the percentage of individuals who are knowledgeable of the air quality problems in the 

DC area and who are willing to take action on an individual basis. The third survey dealt with 

area businesses and their level of awareness of air quality issues. WashCOG plans to conduct a 

follow-up survey to determine if the program has increased awareness of air quality issues and the 

air quality problems experienced by the DC area. 

Main problems or pitfalls encountered during the. implementation of the program: The team has 

found that it is difficult to quantify participation levels and air quality benefits. l . 

Parts of the program that have been the most succesSjul: The health message has been very 

successful. largely because it is easily understood by the general public. Businesses are supportive 

of the ENDZONE program due to its voluntary nature and the fact that they are able to choose 

which actions to undertake. Also, program participants have been asked to join policy 

subcommittees in order to shape the process and have more of a say in the development of the 

program. It is hoped that this will result in positive feedback from participants and provide 

WashCOG with suggestions to improve the program. 

4 
Survey Results-

(Surveys results were presented in April of 1995) 

Survey l "General Awareness·· 

Number of Completed Surveys 

Washington. DC 

Nonhern Virginia 

Southern Maryland 

·Total 

176 

417 

392 

985 

PROGRAM PROFILE-WASHINGTON DC 

Q. Which of the following do you feel is of most concern to Washington. DC? 

Air pollution 

W atcr pollution 

Disposal of solid waste 

Toxic waste 

Noise pollution 

Accidents at nuclear plants 

38% 

22% 

24% 

6% 

3% 

2%' 

Q. On a scale of zero to ten. where a "10" means you feel it is a very big problem and a "O" means that 

you feel it is not a problem. how much of a problem do you feel air pollution is in your city or area? 

There is a problem (7-10 rating) 

In the middle ( 4-6. rating) 

Not a problem (0-3 rating) 

43% 

42% 

16% 

Q. Which of the following do you feel i.S the biggest contributor to air pollution in your area? 

Automobiles 

Trucks 

Buses 

Mftg/lndustry 

Small engine fumes 

Utility companies 

Small businesses 

Percent who have heard of ground level ozone 

52% 

17% 

13% 

7% 

3% 

3% 

1% 

41% 

Percent who believe that ozone high up in the sky keeps out harmful radiation and ozone at ground level is 

a harmful invisible gas-that we breathe- 63% 

Percent who have heard of the Air Quality Index ,,. 85% 

5 

3 J 9 
PROGRAAI PROFILE-WASHIXGTO.V DC 

% Who Strongly Agree 

Air pollution can have an impact on people's health 78% 

Air pollution affects the Chesapeake Bay 4 7% 

Air pollution negatively affects your quality of life 46% 

Air pollution is much more harmful to children than adults 42% 

Q. What, if anything, do you think you, as an individual. do to contribute to air pollution? (multiple 

responses allowed) 

Drive car/vehicle 

Use small engines 

Cooking outdoors 

Use fireplace 

Use paints/solvents/etc. 

Using fossil fuels to heat 

77% 

6% 

3% 

6% 

4% 

2% 

Q. Who do you feel is responsible for reducing air pollution and cleaning up Washington's air? 

Everyone/each of us 

State government 

Federal government 

Factories or industrial sites 

Automobile manuf.acturers 

Cities/communities 

Businesses 

Other 

49% 

11% 

13% 

1% 

5% 

6% 

1% 

8% 

% of residents Who strongly agree that they personally can make a difference in cleaning up the air 

36% 

Q. Would you be very willing, somewhat willing, not very willing, or not at all willing to personally ~ 

actions that would reduce air pollution? 

Very willing 

Somewhat willing 

Somewhat unwilling 

Very unwilling 

Don't know 

39% 

53% 

4% 

2% 

1% 

Of all persons interviewed, 39% have taken action or behaved differently based on hearing.or reading about 

the Air Quality Index. 

Of those who are aware of the Index, 46% have taken action or behaved differently based on hearing or 

reading about the Air Quality Index. 

Q. Do you agree or disagree that it is appropriate for emp1oyers to share information with their employee5 

that would encourage them to take actions to reduce air pollution, particularly alerting .employees of 

6 
PROGRAM PROFILE-WASH!NGTO,V DC 

upcoming ··bad air·· days - when air quality is expected to be unhealthy? Do you agree strongly, agree 

somewhat. disagree somewhat or disagree strongly that this communication is appropriate for employers to 

make? 

Agree strongly 

Agree somewhat 

Neither agree or disagree 

Disagree somewhat 

Disagree strongly 

Don't know 

Survey 2 "Identifying Early Adopters" 

Number of Completed Surveys 

Criteria for early adopters: 

Early adopters are those residents who ... 

-Recognize the air pollution problem. 

4'3% 

34% 

9% 

8% 

5% 

2% 

350 

-Agree that air pollution bas negative consequences 

-Agree that they. as individuals. conuibute to the problem 

-Are willing to take action 

% Residents who are early adopters 

Overall 

Northern Virginia 

Southern Maryland 

District of Columbia 

35% 

37% 

33% 

39% 

Q. What would you say is the primary reason that you would be willing to take actions that would reduce 

air pollution? (unaided) · 

Concern for health 

Concern for my health 

Concern for children's bealtb 

Concern for future generations 

Can see poor air quality 

To improve the environment 

Other 

Don't know 

23% 

16% 

19% 

19% 

6% 

4% 

10% 

2% 

Q. How willing or unwilling would you be to d6 each of the following? (Shown. as % willing) 

Y eadf auto tune-ups 

Setk out envUemnentally friendly cleaners 

Avoid oil based paints 

Combine uips by car 

Limit use of motor boat/jet ski 

Cut grass less often 

7 

87%. 

77% 

72% 

70% 

69% 

65% 
Use alternative transit mode 

Trade in gas powered lawn equipment 

Survey 3 "Business Awareness Survey" / 

Number of Completed Surveys 

PROGRAM PROFILE-WASHINGTON DC 

40% 

32% 

257 

Q. Which of the following do you feel is of most concern to Washingtan DC? 

Air pollution 

Water pollution 

Disposal of solid waste 

·Toxic waste 

Noise pollution 

Accidents at nuclear plants 

42% 

23% 

24% 

4% 

2% 

1% 

Q. Which of the following do you feel is the biggest contributor to air pollution in your area? 

Automobiles 

Trucks 

Mftg/lndustry 

Buses 

Small businesses . 

Small engine fumes 

Utility companies 

77% 

8% 

2% 

8% 

1% 

1% 

0% 

Who do you feel is responsible for reducing air pollution and cleaning up Washington's air? 

Everyone/each of us 

State government 

Federal government 

Factories or industrial sites 

Automobile manufacturers 

Cities/communities 

Businesses 

Other 

% Who strongly agree with the following statements 

42% 

10% 

11% 

2% 

8% 

8% 

1%,_ 

16% 

Air pollution cm have an impact on people's health 75% 

Air pollution negatively affects your quality of life 41 % 

and that of employees 

Your business is concerned about the quality of air 39% 

in your area 

Air pollution affects the Chesapeake Bay 46% 

% Who strongly agree with the following statements 

8 
PROGP.Alvf PROFILE-WASHINGTON DC 

Air pollution has a negative effect on economic 49% 

development 

Air pollution could limit new businesses in the.area. 28% 

You understand bow the CAAA affects your business 24% 

Your business can make a difference 21 % 

Poor air quality can affect bottom line 14( ': 

Q. Considering all aspects of your business. how important to your business plans and considerations are 

environmental concerns and their impact on your business? 

Very important 

Somewhat important 

Not very important 

Not at all important 

Percent who have heard of ground level ozone 

30% 

44% 

16% 

9% 

34% 

Percent who believe that ozone high up in the sky keeps out hannful radiation and ozone at ground level is 

a harmful invisible gas that we breathe. 51 % 

Percent who have heard of the Air Quality Index 97% 

Percent of businesses who have ever taken action or behaved differently based on hearing or reading about 

the Air Quality Index I 0% 

Q. Would you say your business does a great deal. a fair Unount. not very much at all to help reduce air 

pollution or clean up the air? 

A great deal 

A fair amount 

Not very much 

Nothing at all . 

Q. Does your company offer or support the following programs? 

Telecommuting options 

Ride matching services for car pools 

Metrochekfl'ransit plus 

Preferential parkiDg 

Compresses work week 

13% 

37% 

28% 

20% 

25%. 

16% 

13% 

15% 

16%' 

Q. If you know that the following could help teduce air pollution in your area, how willing would your 

company be to do each of the following on a voluntary basis? 

Sbare info. with employees on bad air days 

Offer ridesbare programs. 

Be part of business partnership 

9 

47% 

15% 

18% 
PROGRAM PROF1LE-WASHINGTON DC 

Q. What is the orimary reason that your business would be willin~ to take actions that would reduce air 

pollution? (Open ended) 

Impact on health (unspecified) 

Part of civic responsibility 

Concern for future generations 

Right thing to do 

Worry about employees health 

Mandate/Laws 

Good for bottom line 

l 1% 

38% 

22% 

24% 

17% 

1% 

3% 

Q. Please tell me how much influence each of the following has on your business' decision to take proactive steps to stop air R<>llution and clean up the air. · 

Concern how affects employee health 

Avoid future regulations 

Concern will affect bottom line 

Concern how affects natural resources 

Concern how affects economic development 

Be visible role model 

Gives competitive edge 

49% 

20% 

18% 

37% 

29% 

21% 

16% 

Q. How likely would your organization be to take actions that would reduce air pollution under each of the 

following conditions? (% very likely) 

Had more info. regarding negative health impacts 33% 

If show poor air quality affects employee productivity 46% 

If show poor air quality lead to higher health insurance 49% 

If rideshare options would reduce traffic congestion 33% 

JO 
Air Quality Forecast 

. .J~S 

http://www.mwc:O·J .or ... ogJdep/airquai .htr 

1of2 

Forecast Valid Through Sunset, September 16, 1996 

Air Quality Forecast 

l\1ETROPOLITAN WASHINGTON COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS 

777 North.Capitol Street, N.E., Suite 300,Washinqton, o.c. 20002 

For Immediate Release Contacts: Qing Liu (202) 962-3239 

The Air Quality On September 15 Was G~od 

©----------

"Code Green" Ozone Forecast for Monday, September 9, 1996 

Good Air Quality Expected 

©--------

4:30 p.m., Washington, D.C. -The Council ofGovemments(COG) has issued a "Code Green" ozone 

forecast indicating that the air quality is expected to be good on September l~ in the Washington 

metropolitan region. The air quality on September 15 wu good with an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 49 

for ground-level ozone~ 

The Washington region's worst air quality problem is ozone, an odorless, colorless gu that poses health 

problems at ground level. On a typical summer day, about 60 to 70 percent of the pollutants that cause 

ozone are created from cars, lawnmowers, other garden equipment, and common household products. 

For these reasons, COG recommends that residents make the extra effort to: 

o Carpool or use transit when possible. 

o Keep cars and boats tuned up. 

o Use environmentally safe paints and cleaning products. 

Above certain concentratio~ ground-level ozone can cause lung damage, eye irritation, breathing 

difficulties, coughing and chestpain. Children, the elderly, healthy individuals working or exercising out 

doors, and those with respiratory and heart ailments are particularly affected when ozone levels are high. 

COG provides daily air quality forecasts at approximately 4:45 p.m. during the summer ozone season. If 

09/17/96 09:55:: 
.3 1-lc 

Air Quality Forecast http://www.mwcog.or ..• og/dep/airquaJ.htl 

the forecast changes, an update will be issued by 10:30 a.m. the following da} _ 

For Related University of Maryland Weather and Air Quality Forecast, Click here 

For Maryland Air Quality Information.Click bere 

For South Coast Air Quality Management District Homepage, Click here 

Links To Regional Weather Channels 

The Weather Channel 

WRC-TV Channel 4 Washinston 

Return To MWCOG Homepage