Pilot Balloon Observations, 2014 Jefferson County Smoke Management

Series/Report Number: COARC2014

Abstract: Pilot Balloon (Pibal) observations are a major component of the daily decision-making process used in managing open field burning of grass seed and wheat fields in Jefferson County. Pibals are used to track upper level wind direction and speed. During burning season, Pibals are released daily from the Central Oregon Agricultural Research Center between 10:30 am and 3:30 pm. In addition, Pibal releases at potential burn sites provide more accurate decision-making when presented with marginal conditions. The Pibal is essential to minimizing adverse smoke impacts on local communities.

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