Alaska Mapping Initiative: Modernizing Alaska Mapping
The goal of the Alaska Mapping Initiative (AMI) is to acquire and enhance foundational digital map layers such as elevation, surface water, roads, buildings and boundaries. Updated map layers are used to produce new US Topo maps for Alaska. The first round of new digital Alaska US Topo maps were completed statewide for Alaska in 2021 and the second round of maps began in 2023. This multi-year mapping initiative will benefit high-priority applications in human safety, planning, research, and resource management.
New Elevation Layer Acquired Statewide for Alaska
5-meter resolution elevation data were collected by airborne radar statewide for Alaska from 2010 to 2019 under the 3D Elevation Program (3DEP). The data were acquired using Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar (IfSAR) technology and replaced decades-old 60-meter elevation data. Alaska IfSAR data are made available free to the public as an element of the national 3D Elevation Program (3DEP). Higher resolution Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) elevation data are being acquired for priority locations across Alaska as the next phase of elevation update for the State.
Alaska Mapping Executive Committee
The Alaska Mapping Executive Committee (AMEC) was formed in November of 2012 to coordinate the acquisition of critical statewide Alaska map themes. Executive level managers from 15 Federal agencies and Departments and the State of Alaska participate in AMEC coordination activities. The current data layers in development at various agencies under guidance from AMEC include statewide wetlands, terrestrial hydrography, imagery, gravity, and several coastal datasets.
