The Great Lakes Information Network (GLIN) is currently seeking testers for myBeachCast, a new beta Android app that provides more options and opportunities for public access to beach advisories and other environmental information.

To download the beta myBeachCast app and to sign on to be a beta tester, please visit beachcast.glin.net.

The app retrieves advisory and closure data from the states of Michigan, Indiana and Ohio, all of which utilize BeachGuard, a centralized reporting database for monitoring data collected by health departments across each state. Data from the other Great Lakes states will be incorporated in time for the app’s full launch in May 2012.

Funded by the U.S. EPA-led Great Lakes Restoration Initiative, the myBeachCast app provides the public with real-time information on beach water quality advisories, weather and water conditions. The app allows users to discover local beaches based on the user’s location, save favorite beaches, and quickly locate other nearby beaches in the case of a water quality advisory at their favorite beach.

Comments and feedback on the beta app can be sent via email to mybeachcast [at] glin [dot] net. The development team encourages the Great Lakes community to download and use the app through conclusion of the 2011 beach season and provide input and suggestions.

The app was designed for the Android platform by LimnoTech, a water resources and engineering company based in Ann Arbor, Mich.,in partnership with the Great Lakes Commission and the states. A mobile-enhanced website available on GLIN will offer complementary information for other mobile devices. Funding is being sought to develop a corresponding native app for the iPhone.