The National Elevation Dataset

TLDR

The National Elevation Dataset is a seamless raster product covering the United States and its territories, providing consistent elevation data in a unified projection, resolution, and datum. The NED is produced using standardized specifications and techniques that ensure consistent resolution and datum across the dataset. The NED meets National Spatial Data Infrastructure standards, enabling users to analyze elevation data without extensive preparation, and is regularly updated and freely available online.

Abstract

The National Elevation Dataset (NED) is a raster product that provides elevation data coverage of the entire United States and its island territories in a seamless format with consistent projection, resolution, elevation units and horizontal and vertical datums. It is the result of the maturation of the U.S. Geological Survey elevation production program, in which national coverage of quadrangle-based digital elevation models has been completed. Specifications and production techniques for the NED are given. The NED fulfills many of the concepts of framework geospatial data as envisioned for the National Spatial Data Infrastructure, allowing users to focus on analysis rather than data preparation. The NED provides basic elevation data for many geographic information system applications and is maintained and updated regularly. The USGS is making several seamless datasets including NED available through the Internet.