The Great Lakes Piping Plover (Charadrius melodus) is a federally endangered shorebird threatened by habitat loss, human disturbance, and predation. Once faced with a very low population size, these birds have begun to make a remarkable comeback thanks to the efforts of the Great Lakes Piping Plover Recovery Team of federal and state agencies, non-governmental organizations, academic researchers, conservationists, and volunteers. Across their range, bird lovers flock to see these beloved shorebirds that have become a beacon of hope for Great Lakes conservation.
In collaboration with Audubon Great Lakes and with input from the Recovery Team, an ArcGIS StoryMap was developed to increase public engagement through storytelling via interactive maps, photos, and videos. As an educational and outreach tool, the StoryMap includes public beach nesting locations in the Great Lakes region, overwintering locations along the Atlantic and Gulf coast, plover stories, Recovery Team personnel spotlights, and recommendations for what the public can do to support plover conservation efforts. Educating the public about Great Lakes Piping Plovers is critical to fostering enthusiasm and support for recovery efforts, helping to ensure the species' long-term recovery. GLRI supports many of the conservation efforts highlighted in the StoryMap, such as habitat restoration, nest protection, and monitoring.
To view the StoryMap please visit: Great Lakes Piping Plovers