The Washington State Department of Natural Resources has released one third of its new LiDAR database that will help to more accurately map geological features and the associated hazards that face communities within the state.
LiDAR, which stands for Light Detection And Ranging, uses lasers mounted to aircraft in order to survey topography by way of measuring reflected light. The laser beams are able to penetrate forest canopy, ground cover and human development in order to provide accurate depictions of landforms and topography. Interestingly, LASER also originated as an acronym, which stands for Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation.
The recently released LiDAR data covers one-third of the state. The complete database is expected to be released by the end of March for the use of developers, land use planners, emergency management officials, engineers and scientists.
“Ultimately, this portal will be a big stride for public safety and transparency,” said commissioner of public lands, Peter Goldmark, in a press release. “It’s a testament to the state’s commitment to better understand geologic threats. Making this information publicly available helps local decision makers prevent hazards from turning into disasters.”
The existing LiDAR database is currently available to the public for review online.
“This portal puts comprehensive lidar data at the fingertips of scientists and others interested in geology,” said state geologist Dave Norman in a press release. “As this database continues to grow, it will become increasingly important to understanding the state’s complex geology and its impacts for all who live in Washington.”
The LiDAR database portal is available online at lidarportal.dnr.wa.gov. Additional information on LiDAR can be found online at www.dnr.wa.gov/lidar.
