Coastal Elevation Data and Mapping
Accurate elevation data is fundamental for assessing storm-related impacts and understanding coastal change and vulnerability. The USGS is establishing a Coastal National Elevation Database, known also as CoNED, for the Hurricane Sandy region. An important part of CoNED are topographic surveys (using lidar) that are used to assess impacted areas and inform reconstruction. In addition, USGS is developing data delivery systems that make topographic (land-based elevation), bathymetric (seafloor-surface maps) and associated hazard information available to partners and stakeholders.