Standards used by the National Elevation Dataset

The National Elevation Dataset (NED) is built upon the most current applicable standards for geospatial data and metadata. In particular, NED's foundation is an assembly of Digital Elevation Models that conform to the USGS's National Mapping Program standards.

NED is documented using the Federal Geographic Data Committee (FGDC) content standard for geospatial metadata , and will be kept in conformance with a future ISO metadata standard . NED is a searchable collection through the National Spatial Data Infrastructure (NSDI) and its network of distributed clearinghouse nodes. NED will be offered using the Spatial Data Transfer Standard and in particular, the raster profile , an FGDC endorsed (FGDC-STD-002.5) profile of the ANSI and FGDC endorsed SDTS ( ANSI NCITS 320:1998 , FGDC-STD-002, FIPS 173-1). NED is provided in formats that are fully compliant with Executive Order 12906 , OMB Circular A130 , and OMB Circular A-119 .

NED is intended to be exemplary of USGS's leadership role and total commitment to geospatial data standards. If you encounter problems or require more information on NED standards, please contact custserv@usgs.gov.