January 7, 2026
The Great Lakes Observing System (GLOS) and SwimSmart Technology LLC are proud to announce that activities supporting the Great Lakes Coastal Warning System project have begun. Supported by funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL), GLOS has awarded SwimSmart $247,453 to execute the project within 19 months, beginning November 1, 2025.
Through the Great Lakes Coastal Warning System project, GLOS and SwimSmart aim to significantly advance beach safety and coastal observation across the Great Lakes by integrating SwimSmart’s innovative electronic warning systems with GLOS data platforms, such as Seagull. Together, we will deploy next generation weather observation sensors on SwimSmart rescue stations and warning signs at key sites around the Great Lakes.
Enhancements will improve observational capacity, supporting research and enabling real-time hazard detection. These will in turn improve rip current forecasting accuracy and deliver critical safety information; to beach managers, first responders, and the public, to save lives – both online and at the beach.
By linking high-quality nearshore observations directly to beach warning systems and Seagull, this initiative strengthens local stakeholder investment in long-term coastal monitoring while addressing preventable drowning risks in the region.
Through this partnership, we look forward to creating safer beaches and more resilient Great Lakes communities.
