The 3DNTM DCA provides an opportunity to partner with the USGS and other Federal agencies to acquire high-resolution 3D elevation and hydrography (surface water) mapping data. Partnerships efficiently and effectively leverage funding to respond to the documented and growing need for high-quality elevation and hydrography data, which significantly benefit Americans across an array of applications like infrastructure planning, discovery of critical minerals, energy development, and disaster preparation and response for severe weather events, earthquakes, landslides, and other emergencies. 

"Partnerships through the 3DNTM Data Collaboration Announcement leverage funding resulting in a remarkable return on investment," stated Dr. Michael Tischler, Acting Associate Director for Core Science Systems. "Project submissions through the DCA, encompassing a broad range of partnerships executed through private sector contracts, are essential for providing highly accurate and valuable elevation and hydrography data for the Nation."

Awarded projects may use the Geospatial Products and Services Contracts to acquire data through private contractors, or funds may be managed by applicants on their own data acquisition contracts. Federal agencies, State and local governments, Tribes, academic institutions, and the private sector are eligible to submit projects and partner through the 3DNTM DCA.   

Project submissions are due by 5:00 p.m. Eastern time on September 12, 2025. 

For more information, contacts, and to watch a recorded webinar about the DCA process, please visit the FY26 DCA webpage at https://www.usgs.gov/3DNTM/DCA.  

Questions about the DCA can be submitted to 3dep_dca@usgs.gov or 3dhp_dca@usgs.gov.