Foundations: Completed projects

Evaluating water clarity, turbidity, and eutrophication status of the Great Lakes with satellite radiometric data

This project is evaluating the spatiotemporal changes in water quality of all five Great Lakes using satellite data. The water quality will be investigated from two perspectives: 1) Overall quality and 2) Eutrophication status. 

Contact: Paul.Digiacomo@noaa.gov

Great Lakes nearshore geomorphic vulnerability index

After completing the geomorphic index for Lake Michigan in FY21, the interagency team, led by USACE, will evaluate the available data and GLRI priorities to select which lake(s) will be the subject of the next phase of this work. In FY22, the GIS work on the selected lake(s) would be prioritized.  NOAA will provide geospatial technical assistance and support toward this end.

Contact: Chiara.Zuccarino-crowe@noaa.gov

Hardened Shoreline Ecological Indicator GIS

Understanding where hardened shoreline plays a role in identifying opportunities for littoral system restoration is a critical aspect of prioritizing work in an anthropomorphic system. NOAA used existing aerial imagery and ancillary data to develop a baseline hardened shoreline classification using the best available imagery to date.

Contact: Chiara.Zuccarino-crowe@noaa.gov

Lake Ontario Benthic Macroinvetebrate Assessment

NOAA is part of a collaborative effort among government agencies and academic institutions to evaluate the composition and abundance of components in Lake Ontario’s benthic (bottom) zone.

Contact: Reagan.Errera@noaa.gov

NOAA’s Climate Projects

GLRI funds have helped NOAA to become a leader in coastal research, outreach, and education in the Great Lakes.  Multiple initiatives support climate research, adaptation, and resiliency plans for the Great Lakes region.

Contact: Chiara.Zuccarino-crowe@noaa.gov

Supporting Great Lakes Clean Marina Certification Efforts

The Great Lakes Clean Marina Network and regional Clean Marina Programs promote environmentally sound marina and boating practices through the implementation of best management practices addressing petroleum control and spill prevention, stormwater management and boat maintenance.

Updating vertical datums at local ports and harbors of refuge through seasonal water level measurements

An accurate Great Lakes wide elevation reference datum is a fundamental requirement for monitoring change in Great Lakes land and water levels and for providing a geospatial foundation for marine spatial planning. This project will collect water level data at 10 small ports and harbors locations in designated Areas of Concern (AOC) during June-September of 2020, and provide International Great Lakes Datum (IGLD) 1985 heights.

Contact:  Laura.Rear.Mclaughlin@noaa.gov