The Great Lakes Observing System (GLOS) is a bi-national nonprofit connecting and enhancing the observing systems of the Laurentian Great Lakes. GLOS provides end-to-end data services that support science, policy, management, and industry, supporting regional observing partners to address local needs across the eight U.S. states and two Canadian provinces. GLOS’s network of federal, state, university, nonprofit, indigenous, and community partners aims to advance and expand technology throughout the region, to better understand the lakes, in order to better inform the public of risks to life and property with reliable, up-to-date lake information.

Distinguishing characteristics of the Great Lakes region:

• Managing data and delivering information via a cloud-based data platform and mobile application.
• Engaging stakeholders to identify and address changing regional needs.
• Facilitating the observing network by expanding the geographical coverage and technology systems across the world’s largest freshwater system.