RHODE ISLAND WEBCAMS

Webcam in Westerly, RI to Monitor Shoreline Change and Beach Usage

Partnership Between NERACOOS, RI Coastal Resources Management Council, Surfline, and The University of Rhode Island Enhances Coastal Monitoring

A webcam was installed in Westerly, Rhode Island to monitor shoreline change and beach usage. This partnership between The Northeast Regional Association of Coastal Ocean Observing Systems (NERACOOS), Webcam Coastal Observation System (WebCOOS), Town of Westerly, RI Coastal Resources Management Council, Surfline, and The University of Rhode Island will enhance the monitoring of coastal change and beach usage.

The camera, which will provide critical visual data for ongoing research, is pointed to the west to monitor storm impacts and changes to the beach.

“The Westerly webcam provides essential real-time data on how our barrier beach island functions and is shaped by the wind, waves, currents, tides, and storms over time,” said Julia C. Beasley, Recreation Director for the Town of Westerly. “The cameras will help us assess damage caused by major storms as well as document how our dune grass strengthens the dunes, protecting our barrier beach island from extreme weather events. Additionally, the cameras will assist in tracking the number of visitors who enjoy our beaches during the busy summer months. This data will inform decisions on beach maintenance, and we appreciate the efforts of all involved in providing us with this beneficial resource.”

The collaboration reflects a commitment to using technology to understand and protect Rhode Island’s coastal environment. The camera is live and publicly accessible through WebCOOs.org