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Woolpert Chosen by USGS for Comprehensive Hydrography in Tennessee

The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) has officially chosen Woolpert, a leading architecture, engineering, and geospatial firm, to enhance the mapping and delineation of elevation-derived hydrography across the state of Tennessee. This selection is part of the ambitious 3D Hydrography Program (3DHP), aimed at remapping the hydrographic features of the U.S. for the first time since the USGS’s 124,000-scale topographic mapping initiative, which dates back to as early as 1904.

Background of the 3D Hydrography Program

The 3DHP represents a significant leap in hydrographic mapping methodology, utilizing high-accuracy elevation data provided through the 3D Elevation Program (3DEP). This undertaking focuses on producing detailed elevation data that enhances the understanding and management of water resources in Tennessee. Through this program, USGS aims to replace outdated data and ensure that state agencies can access more precise information to support their operational needs.

Woolpert's Role and Contributions

Under the current assignment, Woolpert is tasked with processing an extensive area encompassing about 9,500 square miles of previously collected lidar data, which includes approximately 23,000 stream miles. This crucial data acquisition was carried out under multiple contracts with USGS from 2015 to 2022. The updated elevation data will not only assist in creating detailed hydrographic maps but will also be pivotal for various state agencies to effectively manage Tennessee's water resources.

Dennis Pederson, the GIS Services Director for the State of Tennessee, expressed optimism about the partnership between state agencies, USGS, and Woolpert. He emphasized the importance of a coordinated approach, stating that it forms the backbone of the Tennessee Base Mapping Program, which aims to provide essential GIS datasets to the community at lower costs. This collaborative effort exemplifies the spirit of teamwork across federal, state, and local levels, crucial for achieving the program's long-term objectives.

Benefits of the New Hydrographic Data

The newly generated 3DHP data promises to significantly improve the detail and accuracy of hydrographic information. Woolpert’s Senior Vice President, Jeff Lovin, highlighted that the enhanced data will greatly benefit various state departments, particularly the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation as well as the Tennessee Department of Transportation.

Lovin noted that this new batch of data will serve a multitude of applications, ranging from analyzing surface water and flow patterns to aiding complex hydrologic and hydraulic modeling—all of which are crucial for enhancing flood risk management and infrastructure planning across Tennessee.

As Tennessee faces growing challenges related to climate change and evolving weather patterns, the timely acquisition and processing of high-quality hydrographic data will become increasingly vital. The enhancements made through Woolpert's efforts are expected not only to serve immediate needs but also to lay the groundwork for sustainable water resource management in the future.

Looking Ahead

The updated hydrographic dataset created by Woolpert is planned for delivery by the end of 2025. The firm is dedicated to executing this project efficiently and effectively, continuing its role as a recognized leader in geospatial technology and data analysis.

Woolpert has long been at the forefront of innovation within the architecture, engineering, and geospatial sectors, aiming to serve diverse public, private, and government clients globally. The company was founded in 1911 in Dayton, Ohio, and has since evolved into one of the fastest-growing firms in its field, with a robust workforce of over 2,700 employees operating from more than 60 offices worldwide.

For more information on Woolpert and the services they provide, visit woolpert.com.