Developing a Geospatial Decision Support Tool for Great Lakes Beach Hazards

Session: Watershed and Lake Science Informing Management (2)

Amanda Grimm, Michigan Tech Research Inst., [email protected]
Guy Meadows, Michigan Technological University, [email protected]
Colin Brooks, Michigan Tech Research Institute, [email protected]
Robert Shuchman, Michigan Technological University, [email protected]

Abstract

Mapping the spatial and temporal distribution of rip currents in the Great Lakes provides the fundamental information needed to model and forecast these dangerous currents. For our ongoing project, the distribution of rip currents across Michigan shorelines during several different time periods was mapped using an object-based method, which combines image processing and GIS functionalities to extract information from aerial imagery. This dataset was then converted into a statewide dangerous nearshore current hazard level map, which has been integrated into a new online decision support tool (DST) with a map-based interface. The DST also serves other relevant datasets, such as real-time wave conditions and swim risk forecasts. The aim of this new tool is to support local beach and coastal managers in making effective decisions to minimize coastal hazards, so we look forward to sharing the preliminary version with the Great Lakes water safety community of practice for their testing and input.