COASTS volunteers will be trained to collect data on beach elevation and shoreline change. These data will help researchers at the Illinois State Geological Survey (University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign- Prairie Research Institute) – Great Lakes Coastal Geology Research Group track seasonal and annual trends in beach erosion (loss of sand) and accretion (sand gain).

How do we collect beach elevation data? Every month, you will have the option to sign up for data collection surveys. A typical survey last approximately 1-2 hours. Check out this video to see how beach elevation, also known as the beach profile, is measured.

Download the 2018 Volunteer Guide here!