How is ambient air data submission to the EPA’s Air Quality System (AQS) typically performed?

• A. Printed reports mailed quarterly to EPA.
• B. Electronically through approved data formats and transmissions, followed by EPA validation and acceptance.
• C. Data reported only in response to requests from EPA.
• D. Data submission is optional.

Answer: (B)

Ambient air data is submitted to EPA’s Air Quality System electronically in approved data formats and transmission methods. This electronic submission is followed by EPA validation and acceptance, meaning the data are checked for quality, completeness, and consistency before they are stored in AQS and used for national reporting and regulatory decisions. This process ensures standardized, timely, and traceable data across states and agencies. Paper reports mailed quarterly, data provided only on request, or data submission being optional do not reflect how AQS data flows in practice, since the system relies on regular electronic submissions that pass EPA’s validation steps.