3D Elevation Program

The 3D Elevation Program (3DEP) is a collaborative effort led by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) to acquire and provide high-resolution topographic data for the United States. This program focuses on collecting enhanced elevation data using advanced techniques, primarily lidar, to create accurate and detailed three-dimensional representations of the Earth's surface. The data generated by 3DEP are crucial for numerous applications, including land-use planning, flood risk management, geological studies, and environmental monitoring.

The program aims to complete the acquisition of nationwide lidar data coverage, complementing existing data and filling gaps to ensure a consistent and comprehensive dataset. This initiative supports a broad spectrum of scientific and practical needs, contributing to better understanding and management of natural resources, infrastructure development, and disaster preparedness. Users can access these foundational digital elevation models (DEMs) and related products for various geospatial analyses and projects.

As part of the broader USGS science initiatives, 3DEP aligns with mission areas such as Core Science Systems, Natural Hazards, and Water Resources. The data supports diverse scientific exploration in areas like geology, maps and mapping, climate, and natural hazards, making it an indispensable resource for the geospatial community.