Challenges in delivering observation and forecasting data for coastal margins to diverse end-user groups have led to the development of CORIE-Mapserver, a web-based user interface that utilizes GIS technologies alongside the existing Coastal Margin Observatory infrastructure. CORIE-Mapserver employs open-source software tools, including the Linux operating system, UMN Mapserver for web-based GIS, and a PostgreSQL relational database, to create a unique method for interacting with Coastal Margin Observatory data. This paper motivates and describes the creation of the prototype web-based GIS system built on the CORE Coastal Margin Observatory. By utilizing the CORIE-Mapserver tool during a series of oceanographic cruises in July 2004, we have taken an initial step in demonstrating the usefulness of this technology. We believe that in the future, this technology will help conserve resources and provide expanded access to coastal margin observation and forecasting data for a wider range of user groups.