What level of accuracy is mandated by the 3DEP program?

The 3D Elevation Program (3DEP), initiated by the United States Geological Survey (USGS), aims to provide high-quality elevation data to enhance mapping and analysis efforts across various applications such as flood risk management, infrastructure planning, and environmental monitoring. The program specifically mandates a certain level of accuracy, known as Quality Levels (QL), to ensure that the elevation data collected is reliable and useful.

Quality Level 2 (Q2) is the accuracy level specified by the 3DEP program. This level is characterized by a vertical accuracy of 10 cm at a 95% confidence level, which means that 95% of the elevation measurements will be within 10 cm of the true surface elevation. This level was established to strike a balance between technical feasibility and the precision needed for the wide variety of applications that depend on elevation data.

The other options do not align with the established accuracy standards of the 3DEP. Quality Level 1 (Q1) represents even higher accuracy, which may not be necessary for all 3DEP applications, while Quality Level 3 (Q3) is acceptable for less demanding applications. As for the option that states "no specific accuracy level," it overlooks the defined requirements that guide the program's implementation