P1: Panel Discussion C Friday, 8:30 – 9:15 am C Gooseberry Falls Room

Minnesota Aerial Photography / Imagery Status and Requirements

Ron Wencl
U.S. Geological Survey
National Mapping Program
2280 Woodale Drive
Mounds View, MN  55112
rwencl@usgs.gov

A variety of aerial photography and satellite imagery from numerous sources cover all or portions of Minnesota. New airborne and satellite sensors have been developed in recent years and new platforms are planned for the future. These image sources are used by planners, natural resource managers, engineers and others for a vast assortment of GIS applications. Are there common requirements or image characteristics that would benefit multiple agencies or users? Who’s planning to acquire new imagery in the future? How are these programs funded? 

A panel of representatives from Federal, State and regional agencies and local government will discuss the status of aerial photography programs within Minnesota. Topics such as imagery characteristics, frequency of acquisition, data sharing and funding will be discussed. The issues will provide input to define image requirements across the State.