Woolpert Enhances Hydrographic Data for Improved Flood Management
Woolpert has recently secured a significant role in supporting Tennessee's flood-risk management and infrastructure initiatives.
The Role of Elevation-Derived Hydrography
In a major push for enhanced environmental stewardship, Woolpert has been selected to process and delineate elevation-derived hydrography for Tennessee, contributing to the state’s 3D Hydrography Program (3DHP).
This program marks a vital advancement in hydrographic mapping, being the first comprehensive remapping since the original USGS topographic mappings. These efforts date back to early 20th century, illustrating a long-standing commitment to precise geographic data.
3DHP utilizes updated and high-accuracy elevation data gathered through the 3D Elevation Program (3DEP). This initiative will ensure that the hydrographic data reflects real-time environmental conditions and assists in various planning and management efforts across the state.
Project Details and Goals
As part of this project, Woolpert will process approximately 9,500 square miles of previously collected Quality levels 1 and 2 lidar data. This data encompasses around 23,000 stream miles, demanding a meticulous approach to deliver the detailed elevation-derived hydrographic (EDH) data.
Woolpert successfully acquired the original lidar data through multiple USGS contracts over the past several years, ensuring a solid foundation for this undertaking.
The GIS Services Director for Tennessee, Dennis Pederson, expressed enthusiasm for continuing this partnership. "The State of Tennessee is very excited about our collaboration with USGS and Woolpert on the 3D Hydrography Program. Our five-year plan aims to complete the project's statewide scope, enabling access to essential GIS datasets at a fraction of the cost. This collaboration is pivotal to the Tennessee Base Mapping Program," he noted.
Impact on State Agencies
Woolpert’s Senior Vice President, Jeff Lovin, elaborated on the broader implications of the new hydrographic data. It is expected to significantly benefit various state agencies including the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation, as well as the Tennessee Department of Transportation. This data will enhance the detail and reliability of hydrographic information, which is crucial for engineers and natural resource managers as they tackle environmental challenges.
Lovin emphasized, "The 3D Hydrography Program fundamentally enhances the richness and applicability of hydrographic data. Upon completion, the data set will be invaluable for hydrologic analyses, flow pattern assessments, and hydraulic modeling—the very tools that can shape Tennessee’s approach to flood risk management and urban planning."
Timelines and Future Expectations
The data from this contract is projected to be fully delivered by the end of 2025, with ongoing work commencing immediately. This endeavor is strategically aligned with Tennessee's long-term sustainability goals, setting the stage for more informed decision-making in environmental management.
About Woolpert
Woolpert stands as a leading architecture, engineering, and geospatial (AEG) firm with a firm grasp on innovation across diverse markets. Founded in Dayton, Ohio, in 1911, the company is recognized among the Global Top 100 Geospatial Companies and has seen rapid growth since 2015.
With a workforce exceeding 2,700 employees and numerous offices around the world, Woolpert continues to pursue excellence in serving public, private, and government clients alike. The firm has received numerous accolades, including multiple Great Place to Work certifications.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the 3D Hydrography Program?
The 3D Hydrography Program aims to remap U.S. hydrography, offering updated and accurate hydrographic data for better resource management and planning.
Who is responsible for processing the hydrographic data for Tennessee?
Woolpert has been selected by the U.S. Geological Survey to manage the processing and delineation of this critical hydrographic data.
What types of data will be processed under this contract?
The project will process Quality levels 1 and 2 lidar data across approximately 9,500 square miles, which includes 23,000 stream miles.
How will this project impact state agencies?
The data will enhance the capabilities of various state agencies, improving their decision-making for environmental management, planning, and infrastructure development.
What is the expected completion date for the data delivery?
Data from this project is expected to be delivered by the end of 2025, with work already in progress.
