Abstract

The Maryland Department of the Environment manages an extensive air sampling network across the state of Maryland.  In this talk, we will discuss why the network exists and the operation of the network.  We will also discuss some of the fundamental monitoring principles which are used to sample trace gases and aerosols that may be otherwise invisible to the human eye, but still detrimental to human health. 

Joel Dreesen Bio

Joel Dreessen is master of his destiny, an idealist, entrepreneur, CEO of keeping it real, and senior meteorologist with the Maryland Department of the Environment, in that order.  In his day job, Joel is an air quality meteorologist by title, but forensic meteorologist by action, investigating atmospheric events to explain air quality phenomena.  Knowledge of the atmosphere and society provides him foresight to also provide air quality forecasts for over 9 million people in the greater Maryland-Washington DC region.  In his quest to be an astronaut, Joel was a principal investigator of the OWLETS air quality campaign that was recently awarded NASA’s Group Achievement Award.  Always driven by the quest of discovery, Joel values imagination over knowledge, but enjoys the magic when the two work in harmony.  On request, Joel will provide fiddle accompaniment for impromptu dance parties, a twister tour guide, or assists on the ice rink.  When not slaying grey-tailed dragons in his vineyards, Joel creates opportunity for revolution and enjoys time spent in his castle with his wife and son.
 

Ryan Auvil Bio

Ryan Auvil is the Data Management / QA Division Chief for the Ambient Air Monitoring Program at the Maryland Department of the Environment.  He has 20 years of air monitoring experience, most of which has been spent in field operations.  

Adam Reese Bio

Adam Reese is the Head of the Field Operations Section for the Ambient Air Monitoring Program at the Maryland Department of the Environment.  He has 11 years of experience in diagnosing, repairing, and mediating issues that arise with any instruments in the field.