LiDAR
Light Detection and Ranging Overview
LiDAR, an acronym for Light Detection and Ranging, is a remote sensing technology that employs laser pulses to measure distances to the Earth's surface. By emitting laser beams and analyzing the time it takes for them to return after reflecting off objects, LiDAR systems generate precise, three-dimensional representations of terrain and surface features. This technology is instrumental in various applications, including topographic mapping, forestry management, and autonomous vehicle navigation.
The sources below provide additional general information on LiDAR technology:
- NOAA's National Ocean Service: What is LiDAR? This resource offers a concise overview of LiDAR, explaining its principles and applications, particularly in mapping and environmental monitoring.
- Wikipedia: LiDAR The Wikipedia page on LiDAR provides an in-depth look at the technology, covering its history, mechanisms, and various applications across different fields.
- Neonscience.org: The Basics of LiDAR Tutorial on use for measuring trees.
State of Florida Geographic Information Office
In Florida, LiDAR has been extensively utilized to enhance geographic and environmental data. The State of Florida Geographic Information Office provides resources on LiDAR, emphasizing its role in creating accurate elevation models and supporting initiatives like disaster management and environmental monitoring. Additionally, the Florida Division of Emergency Management offers access to LiDAR datasets, which are crucial for tasks such as flood risk assessment and infrastructure development.
In December 2022, two USGS Quality Level 1+ LiDAR collection contracts managed by the Division of Emergency Management were completed. The two contracts were the Florida Peninsular and the Hurricane Michael Supplemental, and the areas of interest for each can be found on the LiDAR Dashboard link below. These data sets and products are quite large.
Deliverables from these contracts include:
- LiDAR Point Clouds (LAS)
- LiDAR-derived Digital Elevation Models (DEMs)
- Hydrologic Break lines
- Surface Hydrography
The National Map
The USGS National Map (TNM) is a clearinghouse for download of LiDAR and other data.
To use the LiDAR Explorer:
- Click the above link
- Click tab to select product of interest (LiDAR or DEM)
- Click checkbox to show product availability
- Click checkbox to define Area of Interest (AOI)
- Hold the CTRL key and drag a box on the map
- Select results from the list on the right side of the screen
Other National Map Links
- The Main National Map Home Page
- TNM Viewer Note: April 8th this viewer will be retired and replaced with TNM 3D View at this URL.
- TNM Downloader
- Overview of all TNM Apps
- TNM Training Videos
Other Florida Sources
Florida offers a variety of resources for accessing LiDAR data, which is essential for applications such as topographic mapping, environmental monitoring, and infrastructure development. Below is a list of key LiDAR resources available in the state:- Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) LiDAR and Digital Elevation Data FDEM offers LiDAR datasets crucial for tasks such as flood risk assessment and infrastructure development. Florida Peninsular FDEM: This dataset encompasses LiDAR data collected between 2018 and 2020, covering 35 counties in peninsular Florida, and is available through NOAA's InPort.
- FIU GIS Center's LiDAR Elevation Data Download App Florida International University's GIS Center offers tools to facilitate the download of LiDAR datasets created by the State of Florida Division of Emergency Management.
- Lee County LiDAR Data Lee County provides access to its most recent LiDAR data, collected in 2018, along with derived products such as digital elevation models and spot elevation points.
- USF Libraries GIS Research Hub The University of South Florida Libraries' GIS Hub offers access to 3D data, including elevation data and LiDAR datasets, supporting various research and application needs.
- Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) External Data Sites The DEP provides links to external data sources, including LiDAR data.