Observations of Ground-level Ozone and NO^sub 2^ in Northernmost Sweden, Including the Scandian Mountain Range

Ozone was measured using passive diffusion samplers at alpine Latnjajaure (980 m above sea level [asl]) in the northern Scandian Mountain Range during spring and summer 2006-2008, and year-round at three further sites in northernmost Sweden 2004-2008. These observations were compared with ozone concentrations from three permanent monitoring stations using ultraviolet absorption instruments. Ozone concentrations at Latnjajaure were higher than at the closest monitoring site, illustrating the importance of high elevation for ozone. At the northern sites the ozone spring peak was more pronounced, higher, and earlier (April maximum) compared to a site in south Sweden (May maximum). During summer, ozone concentrations were higher in south Sweden. Presently, the growing season largely starts after the ozone spring peak in north Sweden but is likely to start earlier in the future climate. This could lead to an increased risk for ozone effects on vegetation if the current yearly ozone cycle persists. [PUBLICATION ABSTRACT]