CanElevation: LiDAR Point Clouds for Canadian Elevation Mapping

Airborne LiDAR point clouds from various acquisition projects across Canada, created to support the National Elevation Data Strategy. The data is distributed in the Cloud Optimized Point Cloud (COPC) format, allowing for both local download and web-based visualization. All data uses the NAD83(CSRS) reference system and orthometric elevations referenced to the Canadian Geodetic Vertical Datum of 2013.

Use Cases

• Generate high-resolution digital elevation models based on the described LiDAR point cloud data.
• Analyze terrain for flood risk assessment based on the orthometric elevation data referenced to CGVD2013.
• Perform 3D visualization and rendering of landscapes using the web-optimized COPC format.
• Conduct change detection or land cover analysis by comparing point clouds from different acquisition projects.

Strengths

• Data is distributed in the modern Cloud Optimized Point Cloud (COPC) format, enabling efficient web access.
• All point clouds use a consistent geodetic reference system (NAD83(CSRS) and CGVD2013).
• Data is licensed under an open government license (OGL-CA-2.0), facilitating reuse.

Limitations

• Point cloud files are distributed by acquisition project without integration between projects, which may complicate large-scale analysis.
• Row count and total data size are unknown, which may limit suitability assessment.
• Last update date is unknown; freshness unverified.

Provenance

Source

Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) and various partners.

Collection Method

Airborne LiDAR acquisition projects conducted across Canada.

Time Range

null

Freshness

null

Geography

Canada