Particulate matter emission factors using low-dust harvesters for almond nut-picking operations

The lack of an available particulate matter (PM) PM_2.5 emission factor for almond harvesting operations has become a challenge for particulate matter regulations and emissions inventory in California. Low-dust harvesters are viewed as one of the strategies to reduce PM emissions and help achieve the state's PM_2.5 attainment targets. This paper evaluates the potential emission reduction from using low-dust harvesters compared to the conventional. Orchard boundary measurements of PM concentrations were collected to back-calculate emission rates using inverse dispersion modeling. Emissions from four low-dust harvesters (Flory 850, Exact E3800, Weiss-McNair 9800 and Jack Rabbit) were compared to those from a conventional harvester (Flory 480) in two orchards, located in the Fresno County. Emissions of PM_2.5, PM₁₀ and total suspended particles were observed to be lower for all new harvesters compared to the conventional harvester. The range of reductions varies from about 40% to 77% in PM_2.5 emissions based on emission factors generated. The average ratio of PM₁₀ to PM_2.5 emissions is about 12.5%. The results of these tests imply that these new low-dust harvesters are capable of reducing PM emissions without affecting product quality. Therefore, the San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District should consider including the use of these new harvesters in the conservation management practices (CMP) for the reduction of PM emissions in the valley. Implications: The results of this research indicate that almond low-dust harvesters could potentially reduce PM emissions over traditional harvesters without any negative effect on product quality. Therefore, the use of these new harvesters should be considered as part of almond best management practices and updating of emissions inventory in the San Joaquin Valley.