Research Symposium

BIO

I grew up in Venice, Florida, and I’ve known I wanted to study meteorology for most of my life. I hope to eventually work for the National Weather Service as a forecaster, or as a hurricane specialist for the National Hurricane Center.

Analysis of Crop Burning Rules in Florida Using Surface and Satellite Measurements

Abstract

Prior studies have established that sugarcane farming and its associated burning practices in the Florida Everglades Agricultural Area contribute significantly to fine particulate matter [diameter <2.5µm (PM2.5)] concentrations in South Florida, which poses measurable health risks for vulnerable populations. Here we analyze recent satellite and surface data with a goal of identifying any measurable change in PM2.5 concentrations resulting from newly enacted regulations on those farming practices. While satellite data is useful, it is not without error, and to complete an accurate analysis, we must first identify any large discrepancies between satellite data and ground measurements. Using raw satellite derived PM2.5 concentrations, we calculate monthly averages over Florida for the period from 2010 through 2022. We then select surface observation sites throughout Florida with a high percentage of daily data for that same period and calculate monthly averages for those sites. We find the error between satellite and surface measurements for those points and use radial basis function interpolation to approximate satellite measurement errors across the state. Applying these errors to the satellite data, we can create and visualize a more accurate dataset of PM2.5 concentrations. This analysis and data adjustment will allow us to compare the pre- and post-regulation periods and reach a conclusion about what difference, if any, the new regulations have had on PM2.5 concentrations in South Florida. Further research will then yield a clear understanding of whether more new laws are necessary to reduce the hazardous impact of sugarcane farming on air quality.

Keywords: Pollution, Everglades, Agriculture, Florida, Meteorology