While Wisconsin does not have a statewide aerial imagery program, there are several options for acquiring digital imagery (either public domain, or for a fee.) This includes imagery developed from local, state, and federal agencies. Typically, the highest-resolution imagery in the state is produced and distributed by local governments.
Statewide
The WisconsinView Data Portal is the primary archive for statewide and regional Wisconsin aerial imagery projects, including WROC and NAIP.
- GeoData@Wisconsin – Aerial Imagery Collection
- Wisconsin DNR Forestry Aerial Photography Program (digital data also available from WisconsinView)
- WHAIFinder – download free 1930’s aerial photography
- Wisconsin Aerial Photography Catalog – comprehensive, searchable listing of aerial photography available in Wisconsin from the 1930’s to present
City or County
Local governments, primarily counties and cities, are the main producers of high-resolution digital aerial imagery in Wisconsin. Spatial resolutions for these projects typically range from 3″ to 12″. To access this high-resolution data, you must contact the county or city directly. (Reduced-resolution data are available on WisconsinView.) Most counties maintain free interactive mapping sites and/or map services.
- County Land Information Officers
- Wisconsin Aerial Photography Catalog – comprehensive, searchable listing of aerial photography available in Wisconsin from the 1930’s to present
National
The USDA National Agriculture Imagery Program (NAIP) is the best source of leaf-on (summertime) imagery. Currently, this program acquires new imagery every two years in the conterminous U.S. at a one-meter resolution or better.
- NAIP data available through GeoData@Wisconsin (DOQQs and County Mosaics)
- USDA NAIP Downloads (County Mosaics Only)
Need Assistance?
If you are having trouble locating aerial imagery data in Wisconsin or need further help, please contact us via e-Mail or at (608) 262-3065.