Changes Proposed to 2010 Air Monitoring Network

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - The Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM) suggests adding additional monitors to Indiana's monitoring network to include measuring for lead, PM-2.5, sulfate, and meteorological data. The agency released a draft of the 2010 air quality monitoring plan to the public for comment until June 14th.

IDEM is required to review the state's air monitoring network every year to make sure the agency has monitors in the right locations to get accurate air measurements. The agency also removes or relocates air monitors that no longer give relevant information.

Indiana's current network has more monitors per capita than any surrounding states. The proposed plan for the 2010 air monitoring network adds seven new monitors and relocates one duplicative PM-2.5 monitor.   

"IDEM constantly reviews the data we get from the network and evaluates the placement of the monitors every year," said Richard Zeiler, Chief of the Air Monitoring Branch at IDEM. "Adjusting our monitoring network to get the most accurate data lets Hoosiers know what is in the air they breathe. It also helps the agency to make informed decisions about environmental planning and permitting."

The draft air monitoring network plan for 2010 will be available for review on the IDEM Web site at www.idem.IN.gov/5342.htm or at the following locations:

• IDEM Field Office, 2525 North Shadeland Avenue, Indianapolis; and,
• IDEM Central File Room, 12th floor of the Indiana Government Center North building, 100 North Senate Avenue, Indianapolis, Indiana, Monday through Friday, excluding official holidays, between the hours of 8:15 a.m. and 4 p.m. (local time). Call (317) 234-6530 beforehand to set up an appointment.

IDEM will be holding an informational meeting about the plan at the Indiana Government Center South, Conference Room "C"; on June 10 at 6 p.m. Staff will answer questions and accept written comments during the informational meeting.

The public has until June 14th to mail, hand-deliver or e-mail written comments to:

Indiana Department of Environmental Management
100 North Senate Avenue
Mail Code 61-50-2 Shadeland
Indianapolis, IN 46204-2251
Attn: Steve Lengerich
E-mail: slengeri@idem.IN.gov 

Citizens may direct questions to staff at (800) 451-6027, ext. 308-3264. IDEM will make available for public review the hearing transcript and written comments at the IDEM Central File Room.