Events
Fall 2026
October 1 & 2, 2026
Great Lakes Water Safety Conference will be held in South Haven, MI.
The Great Lakes Water Safety Consortium is bringing the water safety community back together – in person – for two days of practical learning, problem-solving, and connection. Demo day is on September 30.
Cost to attend varies depending on the number of days in attendance.
Conference WebsiteCost to attend varies depending on the number of days in attendance.
October 14 & 15, 2026
The Smart Great Lakes 2.0 Workshop will be held in Detroit, MI, at the U-M Detroit Center.
The workshop aims to establish a renewed shared purpose and examine the major forces reshaping Great Lakes observing and information systems. The main topics to be addressed are AI and machine learning as well as novel technologies for data collection and management to inform decisionmaking. These conversations will shape priority setting for Smart Great Lakes 2.0.
Cost to attend is $40 USD.
Draft AgendaCost to attend is $40 USD.
Register for SGL 2.0 Workshop
October 27 - 30, 2026
Great Lakes Beach Association (National Beach Summit) Conference in Traverse City Michigan.
We will be talking about how recent technology advancements are changing the way beaches are monitored and results are communicated. Monitoring approaches have more options with beach sanitary surveys, composite sampling, microbial source tracking, rapid testing methods in the lab and in the field (as little as 15 minutes), remote monitoring, predictive and forecast modeling, and harmful algal monitoring with field test strips, analytical methods, and satellite imagery.
Conference WebsiteWith data available from so many fields, we will explore multidisciplinary and multisector perspectives. We will look at ways to interpret new parameters and how to communicate effectively with beach visitors and communities. We will also look at long term strategies to improve beaches such as stormwater management, remediation designs, citizen science, and coordination with local, state, federal, provincial, and tribal governments.
Cost to attend is $200 USD for general admission.
Cost to attend is $200 USD for general admission.