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Suamico, Wisconsin, is nestled within the broader Green Bay metropolitan area, exhibiting a distinct transitional character between urban and rural landscapes. Located at 44.6354° N, -88.0683° W, the village benefits from a relatively flat topography typical of the Lake Michigan glacial plains, with elevations generally remaining below 800 feet above sea level. This gentle terrain facilitates air stagnation, potentially trapping pollutants. The proximity to Green Bay, a significant body of water, introduces lake-effect phenomena, influencing local weather patterns and occasionally contributing to fog formation which can exacerbate particulate matter concentrations. Surrounding Suamico is a mix of agricultural land – primarily dairy farming and crop production – and pockets of light industrial activity associated with the wider Green Bay region. This blend introduces sources of ammonia from agricultural operations and potential emissions from manufacturing. The urban-rural gradient is pronounced; moving east and west from Suamico quickly transitions into more sparsely populated agricultural areas, while southward leads towards the denser urban core of Green Bay. This gradient impacts pollutant dispersion, with Suamico sometimes experiencing the effects of emissions transported from the city, while also being influenced by regional agricultural practices. The overall geography creates a microclimate susceptible to localized air quality variations.

Suamico’s air quality follows a distinct seasonal pattern, largely dictated by meteorological conditions and human activity. Spring (March-May) often sees elevated particulate matter from agricultural tilling and snowmelt runoff carrying accumulated winter pollutants. Winds are variable, sometimes leading to stagnant air. Summer (June-August) generally offers the best air quality, with prevailing winds dispersing pollutants and higher temperatures promoting atmospheric mixing. However, ozone formation can be a concern on hot, sunny days, particularly downwind from Green Bay. Autumn (September-November) brings increased wood smoke from residential heating, contributing to particulate matter spikes, and the potential for temperature inversions trapping pollutants near the ground. These inversions are more frequent in late fall as temperatures drop. Winter (December-February) is characterized by cold temperatures and stable atmospheric conditions, leading to reduced dispersion of emissions from heating sources – both residential and industrial. Fog is common, trapping pollutants and reducing visibility. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions, should limit strenuous outdoor activity during periods of high wood smoke or stagnant air, particularly in November-February. Monitoring local conditions and adjusting activity levels accordingly is crucial for protecting health.