Precipitation Chemistry Analysis - part of a nationwide system which monitors changes in the chemistry and acid content of precipitation. Big Bend has participated in this program since 1980. Ozone Monitor - a device that measures ozone in the atmosphere on a continuous basis. Polyurethane Foam Sampler - Samples air and measures amounts of lead, PCB's, and volatile organics. The Wind Blows Where It Will Air quality in this area varies significantly by season, with the summer season typically having the poorest visibility and winter season the best.
Summer winds are from the southeast while winter winds are from the north and west.
Nearly half of Big Bend s visibility reduction is due to sulfates. During the summer, air masses arriving in this region from the southeast bring the highest concentrations of sulfates and the poorest visibility conditions. A typical summer wind pattern for Big Bend may begin two days earlier in East Texas, circulate into Louisiana, dip south along the Gulf Coast, migrate west into Mexico, and finally blow toward the northwest into this area. This wind pattern may collect, transport, and deliver such pollutants as sulfates, organic carbons, nitrates, and wind blown soil particles. Nearly half of Big Bend's visibility reduction is due to sulfates.