Wisconsin is currently participating in a national survey that seeks to gather requirements for applications of high-resolution elevation data.

The survey, known as the National Enhanced Elevation Assessment (NEEA) is a joint project of the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and the member agencies of the National Digital Elevation Program (NDEP). The assessment is being funded by the USGS, the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the Natural Resources Conservation Service, and the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency.

According to NEEA documentation,

The assessment will result in requirements and benefits-driven program alternatives to better meet the Nation’s elevation needs. Enhanced Elevation Data refers to more than bare earth elevations. In addition to bare earth elevations, the term Enhanced Elevation Data encompasses precise three-dimensional measurements of the terrain, built-up features, vegetation structure, submerged near-shore topography, and other landscape attributes, primarily measured by Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) technology.

In Wisconsin, the assessment is being coordinated by Ron Wencl, acting USGS liaison to Wisconsin. With the assistance of Amanda Schwoegler (Wisconsin DNR) and Howard Veregin (Wisconsin State Cartographer), information was gathered from a variety of stakeholders at the state and local levels in Wisconsin. This information will then be summarized to produce a statewide synopsis that will be included in a final report to be completed in the fall of 2011.

The goal of the assessment is to inform decision-makers at the federal level about the needs and requirements for enhanced elevation data within the state. The assessment will address fundamental questions as a prerequisite to detailed program planning.