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Community Air Quality Monitoring near the Port of Hueneme

Community Air Quality Monitoring near the Port of Hueneme

Oxnard, California
Location of community monitoring sites in Oxnard, CA and polar plots of black carbon concentrations during various wind conditions
Location of community monitoring sites in Oxnard, CA and polar plots of black carbon concentrations during various wind conditions

The Challenge

Spheros Environmental is collaborating with the Oxnard Harbor District Port of Hueneme to assess the impact of particulate emissions from the transportation sector and wildfire smoke on the local community near the Port of Hueneme. These emission sources can be associated with a variety of toxic contaminants and possible carcinogens, including ozone, particulate matter (PM), and diesel particulate matter (DPM), of which black carbon (BC) is a key component.

Our Solution

As part of this initiative, we expanded the Port’s monitoring network from two to four sites, deploying Aerosol Magee AE36 Aethalometers alongside meteorological sensors. The AE36 provides high-resolution measurements of BC and can differentiate contributions from fossil fuels and biomass burning. Spheros staff are providing instrument maintenance, quality assurance, and data analysis to ensure a robust dataset. We are also participating in a technical advisory committee (TAC), to help strengthen local engagement and build the relationship between the Port and community.

Client
Oxnard Harbor District Port of Hueneme
Practices
Markets
Role

Prime

Results +What makes this unique

A total of 14 months of data will be collected as part of this effort. Continuous data from each of the Port’s monitoring sites is publicly accessible via portcaresaboutair.org.

Project Experts

Lead Air Quality Measurement Specialist
Principal Scientist