August 17, 2017

The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) hosted two informational webinars, one on August 10 and the other on August 17, about partnering with the 3-Dimensional Elevation Program (3DEP) for fiscal year (FY) 2018. Part of the National Map, 3DEP uses lidar data to provide high-resolution elevation data on the bare-earth as well as 3D imaging of both natural and constructed surfaces. The Broad Agency Announcement (BAA), released August 16, awards funding to parties contributing lidar data to the National Map. While federal and non-federal groups may contribute to 3DEP, the BAA provides detailed information on how non-federal partners may request funding to collect the high-quality 3D elevation data.

Each year, 3DEP selects projects for awards based on priority areas determined to be most in need of new or updated lidar data. Using the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) SeaSketch online mapping tool, stakeholders and agency partners may identify potential areas of interest for future mapping projects in all 50 states and proposed elevation projects for 2018, as well as areas with in-progress or completed projects. A new aspect of the FY 2018 BAA awards is multi-year funding, in which partners receive funding to support data collection in mission-specific, high priority areas beyond FY 2018.

Proposals are due by October 20, 2017, and selections will be announced between November 15, 2017 and February 15, 2018. Proposals submitted after October 20 may be considered based on funding availability.

Sources: U.S. Geological Survey 3D Elevation Program