What is the primary producer of Digital Elevation Models (DEMs) in the United States?

The US Geological Survey (USGS) is recognized as the primary producer of Digital Elevation Models (DEMs) in the United States. The USGS has a long-standing role in mapping and surveying the nation's geography, which includes the creation and management of high-quality elevation data. Their work in developing DEMs is crucial for various applications, including environmental studies, urban planning, and disaster management.

The USGS uses several methods to create DEMs, including light detection and ranging (LiDAR) technology and stereo photogrammetry from aerial imagery. Through these processes, they produce detailed representations of terrestrial landscapes that support a wide range of scientific and practical applications.

While other agencies such as NOAA, NASA, and the Forest Service may engage in mapping activities or contribute to elevation data efforts, they do not primarily focus on producing DEMs to the same extent as USGS. NOAA, for instance, primarily concentrates on ocean and atmospheric data, NASA on space and satellite research, and the Forest Service on managing national forests and associated resources. Hence, the USGS stands out as the leading agency for DEM production in the United States.