The Air Quality Bureau modeling staff conduct local scale dispersion modeling, which is generally associated with the construction permit application process. It is used to predict the air quality impact of new or modified emission sources.
The modeling staff conducts or reviews modeling for minor and major sources. Other uses of dispersion modeling include: analysis of monitored violations of the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS), assistance in planning, and the development of rules.
The source characterization guidance was initially developed to assure consistency in the methodologies used by DNR staff to characterize emission sources in an air dispersion modeling analysis. In general the guidance addresses those emission sources modeled as pseudo- or non-point sources; however the guidance also addresses stacks with capped or horizontal type discharge. This guidance is not intended to preclude other methodologies for characterizing emission sources.
