This document summarizes FEMA's specifications for LiDAR elevation data collection for floodplain mapping projects. It outlines FEMA's mapping programs from 2003 to present and the differences in specifications between their 2003 Appendix A guidance and 2010 Procedural Memorandum 61. Key items to specify in an RFP for LiDAR data collection include vertical and horizontal accuracy requirements, nominal pulse spacing, datums, and deliverables such as classified point clouds, DEMs and metadata.

1. LiDAR Project Specifications WLIA, February 17, 2011 Amanda Schwoegler Floodplain Mapping Project Coordinator Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources

2. FEMA Floodplain Mapping Project Recent History 2003 – 2008 Map Modernization Program Multi-year FEMA program to update the nation’s flood insurance rate maps (FIRMs) to as digital , countywide format. 2009 Transition Year Funding year between FEMA multi-year programs Funding provided for the main stem of the Rock River to the Illinois border. 2010 - ? Risk MAP Mapping, Assessment and Planning New multi-year FEMA program using a watershed approach Funding provided for Upper and Lower Rock River watershed studies

3. FEMA’s Specifications for Elevation Data Appendix A: Guidance for Aerial Mapping and Surveying, April 2003 (Coincides with Map Modernization) Procedural Memorandum 61- Standards for Lidar and Other High Quality Digital Topography, September 27, 2010 (Coincides with Risk MAP)

4. Differences between the FEMA Specs Appendix A: Deliverables not clear Accuracy requirements refer to NSSDA for 2 and 4 foot contours. Procedural Memorandum 61: References new standards from ASPRS, NDEP and USGS. Introduces Vertical Accuracy Requirements based on levels of Flood Risk and Terrain Slope. Requires data to meet FVA/CVA accuracy measurements Specifies a Nominal Pulse Spacing (NPS) requirement Clearly defined deliverables.

5. Items to Specify in your RFP Vertical Accuracy at the 95% Confidence Level should be 24.5cm/36.3cm FVA/CVA Nominal Pulse Spacing ≤ 1 meter Horizontal Datum = latest adjustment of NAD83 Vertical Datum = NAVD88 Coordinate System = UTM preferred

6. Items to Specify in your RFP (cont.) Deliverables: FGDC Metadata QA/QC Report including the vertical accuracy calculations as a Microsoft Excel spreadsheet. Project Documentation including Pre-flight Operations Plan and Post-flight Aerial Survey and Calibration Report Raw Point Cloud (questionable) Classified Point Cloud Breaklines Bare Earth Products including DEM