Air quality modeling is a mathematical simulation that shows how air pollutants move and interact in the atmosphere and affect air quality. The Environment Department conducts and provides guidance to the regulated community on air modeling to check compliance with air quality standards.
An air dispersion modeling analysis must be submitted with some air quality permit applications. New Mexico Air Quality Bureau has developed guidelines to aid the dispersion modeler in developing an acceptable analysis and to facilitate the Bureau staff in expediting the review process.
Modeling waiver form and modeling report form (UA4) are available on the NMED Forms page. Modeling guidance and information are available below.
- 2022 Modeling Guidelines describe the requirements and standards for submitting air dispersion modeling.
- Air Quality Control Region (AQCR) Description and AQCR map describe the use of PSD increments in New Mexico.
- Class I Area map shows areas granted special air quality protections under the federal Clean Air Act.
- Elevation Data for model input can be obtained from USGS.
- MergeMaster is an MS Access database program that retrieves surrounding sources and location information.
- Meteorology files ready for use in AERMOD are prepared by the AQB for certain locations. (See also Meteorology archives for wind roses and additional information).
- Modeling protocol for fugitive sources template (.doc) (.pdf)
- Modeling protocol for point sources template (.doc) (.pdf)
- Modeling protocol sample
- Nonattainment Areas
- Particle sizes for plume depletion
