History

Welcome to the National Geospatial Technical Operations Center (NGTOC) Web Page.  The NGTOC has a rich history dating back to 1889 when Congress first made annual appropriations to the USGS for topographic mapping.  From that point forward, the USGS topographic mapping program has taken many forms - from the early days of mapping in the field through the compilation of maps using aerial imagery through all phases of digital mapping, including the current very high resolution, “smart” data being created and published today as part of the National Geospatial Program.  The Center still maintains many of the map materials used to create the original USGS Topographic Map Series, however, geospatial information experts in the Center work with high resolution digital information that is used in many applications, from flood hazard analyses, to site planning to recreation. One of the defining features about the NGTOC is that we are “one organization in two locations.”  Employees in both sites work virtually side by side to create and maintain national, authoritative geospatial data for the nation. We look forward to hearing from you as you access and use the products and services created and maintained by the NGTOC and partners in support of the National Geospatial Program.