The great lakes observing system (glos), a 501C3 based in ANN arbor, MI, has served as the integrated ocean observing system (ioos) regional association for the great lakes since 2008, with a…

The great lakes observing system (glos), a 501C3 based in ANN arbor, MI, has served as the integrated ocean observing system (ioos) regional association for the great lakes since 2008, with a mission to provide end-to-end data services that support policy, science, management, and industry in the great lakes. Glos is a certified regional coastal observing system (rcos) under the authority of the integrated coastal and ocean observation system act of 2009 (icoos act). The great lakes observing system stands out within the regional associations in serving the largest surface area of freshwater in the world and a crucial drinking water source for millions of people. Beyond their significance for drinking water, the great lakes are a vital natural resource supporting diverse ecosystems, economic activities, and recreational opportunities. They play essential roles in agriculture, transportation, and energy production. Despite their importance, the lakes face threats such as climate change, erosion, and habitat loss, posing risks to their ecological health. The great lakes region also boasts a diverse network of rights holders and stakeholders. These include federal, state, provincial, municipal, first nations, m?TIS, and tribal governments, along with environmental management agencies, local public bodies, and the general public. Due to the expansive geography and multi-jurisdictional structure of the region, maintaining consistent observations, ensuring adequate geographic coverage, and addressing emerging monitoring needs present ongoing challenges for partners in the region. Glos aims to enhance its role as a regional observations hub through equitable service delivery, by fostering essential coordination with new communities and users, especially those that have been historically overlooked and underserved. This coordination will identify communities? Information needs, and support development of observations and data management tailored to meet the evolving requirements of the great lakes region. To protect this resource and address the unique challenges of great lakes coastal communities, strategic investments in environmental monitoring are imperative. Glos also aims to fortify and expand the impact of existing great lakes observing systems and the recent investments made possible with recent bipartisan infrastructure law (BIL) funding. A notable regional data challenge revolves around year-round data collection, particularly during winters. Insufficient physical and biogeochemical observations during these times hinder investigations into long-term trends and affect shipping, model development, and the understanding of ecosystem dynamics influenced by biological processes that occur in winter. Glos will engage with regional partners to explore development of a year-round observing network to collect critically-needed biogeochemical data, and explore opportunities to integrate a diverse suite of observing technologies (e.g., sequencing, fish telemetry, remote sensing, etc.) to help better assess multi-stressors? Impacts and how biodiversity supports ecosystem functions in the great lakes. Glos will use IRA funds to boost the resilience of coastal communities, economies, and ecosystems, by developing tools to put actionable information in the hands of more people for decision-making, and increase the shared understanding of climate-induced coastal impacts to the great lakes. This effort will require community engagement, outreach, and CO-production of knowledge that communities and stakeholders can readily use. As part of this effort, glos proposes to expand capabilities under its seagull platform based on community feedback, as well develop a lightweight application focused on great lakes beach safety. This effort will dovetail with broadening our user base. Glos will develop new and strengthen existing partnerships through a community engagement strategy as glos works to expand its products and services. Glos