An informative review: Alaska’s Eastern Interior Tribes stepping up to fill an existing atmospheric data gap

Aerosol surface data is nonexistent in the main river valleys of Interior Alaska. Baseline aerosol and meteorological surface data is vital for human health, prosperity, and ecosystem preservation in a rapidly changing world. A high concentration of aerosols, of diameter ≤ 2.5 micrometer, is linked to respiratory illnesses and contributes to health care costs. In Alaska, that includes air travel by charter. A system of aerosol monitors and meteorological ground stations are being placed and managed by the Tribes in four Yukon Flats villages. The Tribes of Beaver, Fort Yukon, Chalkyitsik, and Circle are stepping up to fill a gap in atmospheric surface data. The atmospheric data gap exists because research, in this sparsely populated area, has not been considered to benefit enough taxpayers to justify funding. These Tribal villages are strategically located adjacent to major river inlets into the Yukon Flats valley along the Porcupine and Yukon River between the mountain ranges of the Yukon Flats. Meteorological data of temperature, pressure, and relative humidity will be recorded at both 2 m and 10 m height. In addition, particle matter concentration, precipitation, and leaf wetness will be recorded at 2 m, while wind speed and direction, and total incoming radiation will be recorded at 10 m height. These meteorological and aerosol data can be interpreted in conjunction with satellite data, an emission inventory as well as HSPLIT backwards trajectories to determine the dynamic nature of aerosol flows and to trace the greatest anthropogenic contributors of aerosols within the Yukon Flats valley and individual villages. Within the villages, based on the research results, the Tribes can identify and address biomass, dusty road control programs, and fuel burning methods to mitigate health adverse air quality.