A Wireless Internet-Based Observatory: The Real-time Coastal Observation Network (ReCON)

ReCON, a coastal observation network with nodes on Lakes Michigan, Huron, and Erie, has been designed to allow flexible deployment of coastal access points and simplified integration of sensor packages. The system provides continuous observations of chemical, biological, and physical parameters, facilitates modification of sampling parameters in anticipation of episodic events, facilitates collection of field samples in response to episodic events, supports long term research and contributes to sensor and system development. The system currently supports projects addressing harmful algal bloom (HAB) detection, human health observations related to beach closures and drinking water processing concerns, rip current warnings, integrated ecosystem assessment, and public access to historic shipwrecks at the Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary. ReCON system development relies on wireless broadband technology and a network-based underwater hub designed to allow expansion via satellite nodes. The system architecture allows simplified integration of sensors from various institutions through guest ports. Access to and control of instrumentation is made available to the scientific community and educational institutions through the internet. A real-time database management system provides data and information for forecast model initial conditions, forecast verification, public information, and educational outreach. The technology demonstrated on the ReCON project represents an important contribution to the success of regional coastal ocean observing systems. The pervasiveness of wireless internet technology in coastal regions represents an opportunity to significantly expand high bandwidth coastal observation capabilities. Implementing ReCON on a regional coastal level in the Great Lakes has contributed to better tools and understanding for managers and educators, more on-water observations for marine forecasters, and improved scientific measurements.