The integrated modeling system consists of three main components and a set of preprocessing and postprocessing programs.
The model also includes algorithms for handling the effect of downwash by nearby buildings in the path of the pollution plumes.
[3] The CALPUFF model was originally developed by the Sigma Research Corporation (SRC) in the late 1980s under contract with the California Air Resources Board (CARB)[3] and it was first issued in about 1990.
In April 2006, ownership of the model switched from Earth Tech to the TRC Environmental Corporation.
More recently ownership transferred to Exponent,[5] who are currently (December 2015) responsible for maintaining and distributing the model.