Comprehensive Google Earth Engine and Satellite Data Analysis Tools to Assess the Impacts of VOC-NOx Sensitivity, Smoke, Heat, Drought, and Plant Stress on Ozone Concentrations in Utah and the Northern Wasatch Front

Goal

The goal of this study is to assess summertime ozone sensitivity to volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and oxides of nitrogen (NOx) and the effects of changing conditions (wildfire smoke, heat, drought, plant stress) on ozone concentrations, particularly in the Northern Wasatch Front (NWF) area, a serious non-attainment area for the 8-hour ozone standard.

Methodology

The study will focus on the Formaldehyde-Nitrogen Ratio (FNR), derived from satellite measurements of formaldehyde (HCHO) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2) from the TROPOMI (2019-2025) and TEMPO (2023-2025) satellites, as a key indicator of whether ozone production is NOx-sensitive or VOC-sensitive.

The project will use an existing Google Earth Engine (GEE) platform called the HAQAST Smoke Console and develop new Utah-specific tools within GEE to integrate satellite data, surface monitor data (O3, PM2.5), meteorological data, and land cover indicators (NDVI, VPD, and LAI).

Machine learning tools (k-means cluster analysis, random forest regression) will be used to categorize ozone events (e.g., smoke events) and model effects.

Expected Outputs and Deliverables

Utah-specific thresholds for TROPOMI and TEMPO FNRs.
FNR products and analyses focusing on smoke, rising temperatures, and drought.
Machine learning tools and Utah-specific Google Earth Engine toolkits (apps and JavaScript code) with user guides.
Quarterly and Final Reports, and a draft manuscript for a journal.