During the late spring of 2012, the State Cartographer's Office began work on a Federal Geographic Data Committee (FGDC) Cooperative Agreements Program (CAP) project entitled "Business Plan Development for a Wisconsin Aerial Imaging Program." 

The project is examining existing models used to manage orthophotography projects in the state, and based on considerable community input, we will analyze the lessons learned from these past projects. The expected outcome is a formal implementation plan (a "blueprint") for an aerial photography program that meets the needs of the widest possible audience of users in Wisconsin.

Current Status

For the last several months, the State Cartographer's Office, along with Martin Roche from GeoPlanning Services, has worked with the Wisconsin geospatial community to gather feedback and needs for a future statewide aerial photography program.  That process began with an online survey, to which we had nearly 1,000 responses.  That was followed by a series of regional meetings, online Webinars, and personal interviews.

Currently, we are reviewing all of the information collected, and are developing the draft business plan.  The first public draft is expected to be available in mid-February 2013.

For more information, visit the Wisconsin Aerial Imagery Business Plan Project Web site, or contact This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it at (608) 262-6850.