USGS Released Beta 3D Topography Project Tracker
The new tool provides transparency into 3DEP lidar acquisition schedules across the United States.
Updated on Sept. 30, 2026 in Geography
The United States Geological Survey has released a beta version of its 3D National Topography Model (3DNTM) Project Tracker. This platform offers public visibility into current lidar data acquisition projects.
Why it matters
The tracker centralizes project timelines, enabling stakeholders to monitor active survey progress. It serves as an essential resource for those coordinating large-scale mapping initiatives.
The tracker maintains project visibility for 90 days after publication, providing a snapshot of ongoing 3DEP lidar activities. The scope currently covers 3DEP initiatives, with potential future expansion into 3D Hydrography Program data acquisition.
The players
United States Geological Survey
A federal science bureau that tracks national geography and topography data.
The details
The platform functions by pulling data acquisition schedules into the 3DNTM Project Lifecycle and Milestones page. Users can view the status of lidar mapping efforts—high-resolution laser-based distance measurement used to create digital elevation models—across the country. While the system currently focuses on 3DEP initiatives, internal projections suggest the framework could be scaled to incorporate hydrography-specific topography projects.
Timeline
September 30, 2026: The 3DNTM Tracker beta was officially released.
90 days post-publication: Projects are removed from active tracker visibility.
The Tech Race
The tracker follows the trajectory of the 3D Elevation Program, which aims to complete a national baseline of high-resolution topographic data. It marks a push toward standardizing project lifecycle reporting across disparate mapping initiatives.
Researchers and planners can now access consolidated schedules for lidar acquisition through the USGS portal. The tool primarily benefits professionals managing or utilizing high-resolution terrain data for mapping and environmental analysis.
The takeaway
The 3DNTM Tracker offers a standardized view into the nation's ongoing lidar mapping progress. Users should monitor USGS updates for future announcements regarding the integration of 3D Hydrography Program data.
Further reading
For more context on national mapping initiatives, see the Geography section.
More information
To view project milestones and timelines, visit the Access the Beta release of the 3DNTM Tracker.
Source note: This article includes information reported by USGS.
