Bi-National Data Partnership Yields Success
Canada, U.S. researchers set information sharing protocols
ANN ARBOR, Mich. – May 12, 2015 – Great Lakes data users can look forward to a richer selection of data thanks to the introduction of an applied information product generated by an ongoing binational partnership. Global Earth Observations Great Lakes (GEO Great Lakes) and Conservation Ontario have enabled the Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority (LSRCA) to link their near-real-time data feeds into the Great Lakes Observing System’s data portal, thereby demonstrating that cross-boundary data can be readily shared to increase access and use of reliable data in decision support.
“Getting information from Lake Simcoe is important for resource managers and a variety of stakeholders,” said Kelli Paige, executive director of the Great Lakes Observing System. “But using this as a prototype for data sharing throughout the Great Lakes Basin, transcending political borders, is what’s really meaningful.”
One of 36 Conservation Authorities in the province of Ontario, the Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority works to protect and restore the environmental health of Lake Simcoe and its watershed. Spanning nearly 1,300 square miles, the Lake Simcoe watershed sweeps across 20 municipalities and is home to one of the largest in-land lakes in southern Ontario, apart from the Great Lakes.
“With an exceptional lake-monitoring program, the near real-time data that LSRCA is able to provide in this shared environment is bound to improve conservation outcomes,” said Ms. Kim Gavine, general manager of Conservation Ontario. “By moving into this new shared platform we are achieving goals set on both sides of the border. As the partner pool expands stakeholders will see improved depth of information and expanded access to sources.”
Conservation Ontario is a non-governmental organization that represents the 36 Conservation Authorities across the province of Ontario. Ontario’s Conservation Authorities, including the Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority work to ensure the conservation, restoration and responsible management of Ontario’s water, land and natural habitats through programs that balance human, environmental and economic needs. Making data available for sound decision making is an important component in realizing those goals.
The Great Lakes Observing System is a network of people and technology coordinated to provide data about the Great Lakes in a variety of formats and applications. This information informs policy, public health and safety, resource management and research activities. For more information on our work visit www.glos.us. Connect with us on our Facebook page at facebook.com/GreatLakesObservingSystem, and follow our tweets at twitter.com/GLOSystem
