Great Lakes Beach Science
![]() PROJECT DATA
PROJECT TASKS
ABOUT THE PROJECT |
Task 1: Retrospective on Data and LiteratureTask Chief: Richard Whitman, Sheridan Haack Task 1 Long-term goals![]() In 2008 the primary objective of Task 1 is to compile reference information in a common database, and beach information in a prototype GIS, so that team members can use the information in further study design. The long-term goal is to develop a GIS-based compilation of Great Lakes beaches, with data on physical and hydrogeological characteristics, orientation to typical weather patterns, and other physical features that might influence beach bacteria concentrations. Accompanying the GIS would be linked tabular data summarizing available information such as sanitary survey data, NPDES-permitted outfalls, summary data on beach closures or bacteria concentrations, or data on governing variables from predictive models where available. The result would be a framework within which to characterize Great Lakes beaches, a tool for evaluating how to choose coastal regions for further analysis, and a tool against which beaches can be compared from place-to-place within the Great Lakes. The GIS would also be a useful tool for evaluating patterns in existing data sets as part of any retrospective analysis. In addition to the GIS, reference publications will be compiled in an internal database for the use of the study team, and references will be associated with specific beach sites in the GIS. Objectives8The primary objective is to compile reference information in a common database, and beach information in a prototype GIS, so that team members can use the information in further study design. Specific objectives are to:
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