Botanical Studies in the Vicinity of Cumberland Steam Plant: Results of Surveys Conducted in 1978 and a Review of Surveys Conducted in Previous Years

摘要

No foliar effects attributable to SO sub 2 emissions from Cumberland Steam Plant were observed in 1978. Foliar injury was observed on vegetation during only one of the five growing seasons that surveys have been conducted in the Cumberland area. In 1974, effects were observed on one weed species, giant ragweed, in one 50-acre area. During the 1978 growing season, the sulfur content of coal fired was the lowest since the plant became operational (3.5 vs 3.7 to 3.8 percent); however, average daily SO sub 2 emissions were the highest since the plant became operational (due to the steam plant's operational level). After the steam plant is in compliance, December 1982, the SO sub 2 emission rate will be almost one-third less than during the 1978 growing season. The level of the National Secondary Ambient Air Quality Standard (3-h avg of 0.50 ppM) has never been exceeded at any SO sub 2 monitor in the Cumberland area during daylight hours of a growing season (time period when most vegetation is sensitive to SO sub 2 exposure). Previous operational and SO sub 2 monitoring data, botanical survey results, and projected SO sub 2 emission rates indicate that it is unlikely that emissions from the steam plant will injure vegetation as long as the emission rate does not exceed the interim or final compliance level. (ERA citation 07:042176)