Discrete Data Reports

The Bureau of Air Quality uses "discrete" or manual method monitoring for two Criteria Pollutants - Lead and PM2.5. A discrete method is generally a "manual" method of sampling, most commonly using an air filter to trap air pollutants from ambient air for a defined, or "discrete," period of time. The filter is then removed from the collection site and analyzed in a DEP-accredited laboratory. PA DEP's monitoring strategy generally requires the installation of monitors in areas under PA DEP's jurisdiction having high population density and/or high levels of contaminants, based on EPA guidance and population information from the U.S. Office of Management and Budget (OMB). Monitoring data for discrete-method monitors are available below.

2023 Quarterly Data

Choose from the links below to get a report, by quarter, of the latest available 24-hour concentrations for the DEP's filter-based lead and PM2.5 data. Please note that concentration data for 2023 may undergo further QA/QC analyses before it is finalized by May 1, 2024.
Quarter	PDF Summary
Jan–Mar	Lead	PM2.5
April-June	Lead	PM2.5
July-Sep	Lead	PM2.5
Oct-Dec	Lead	PM2.5

Concentration Data By Year

Choose from the links below to get a report, by year, of 24-hour concentrations for the DEP's filter-based lead, and PM2.5 data.
Year	PDF Summary
2023	Lead	PM2.5
2022	Lead	PM2.5
2021	Lead	PM2.5

Concentration Data By Year – Palmerton, PA

Choose from the links below to get a report, by year, of 24-hour concentrations for the DEP's filter-based criteria lead data at its two monitoring sites in Palmerton, PA. The Palmerton lead monitor began operating in July 2012. The Palmerton High School lead monitor began operating in May 2020.
Year	PDF Summary
2023	Lead
2022	Lead
2021	Lead
2020	Lead
2019	Lead
2018	Lead
2017	Lead
2016	Lead
2015	Lead
2014	Lead
2013	Lead
2012	Lead