Elevation is one of the most fundamental features of any landscape. From how water drains across a field to where buildings can safely be constructed, changes in elevation shape the way land is used and valued. AcreValue’s USGS Elevation map layer gives you a detailed view of the highs and lows across parcels, making it easier to plan, evaluate, and make decisions with confidence.
What Is USGS Elevation Data?
Elevation data represents the height of the land surface above sea level. USGS measures and compiles this information using technologies like aerial photography, LiDAR (light detection and ranging), and digital elevation models (DEMs).
On AcreValue, this data is displayed as a map layer that shows changes in terrain. By turning on the USGS Elevation map layer, you can see contour lines, ridges, valleys, and slopes across a property or region. This makes it easier to visualize how the land “sits” in relation to its surroundings.
Why Elevation Matters
Elevation data isn’t just about knowing how high a piece of land is; it’s about understanding how the land behaves. Here are some of the key reasons why elevation is important:
1. Water Flow and Drainage
Elevation determines how water moves across a property. Farmers use it to predict where water will pool or run off, which affects irrigation planning, soil health, and erosion control.
2. Flood Risk
Elevation is a core factor in floodplain mapping. Lower-lying areas near rivers, lakes, or coasts may be at higher risk. Combining the USGS Elevation map layer with AcreValue’s FEMA Flood Zone map layer helps you get a clearer picture of risk.
3. Building and Development
For developers, elevation impacts grading, foundation stability, and construction costs. Steeper slopes may require more site preparation, while flatter ground is often easier and less expensive to build on.
4. Agriculture and Productivity
Elevation influences microclimates. Even small changes in slope and altitude can affect temperature, frost risk, and soil drainage. For example, vineyards often choose higher, well-drained slopes for quality grape production.
5. Land Valuation and Investment
Understanding terrain helps investors gauge a property’s usability. A parcel with balanced slopes and good drainage may be more valuable than one prone to flooding or erosion.
How to Use the Elevation Map Layer on AcreValue
The AcreValue USGS Elevation map layer makes terrain data easy to access. Here’s how you can explore it:
- Log into AcreValue: Sign in to access premium mapping features.
- Open the Interactive Map: Navigate to AcreValue’s interactive map.
- Enable the USGS Elevation Map Layer: Find and select the USGS Elevation option from the map layers menu.
- Zoom and Explore: Click on a parcel to see detailed elevation data. You’ll notice how contour lines and terrain features reveal the natural shape of the land.
- Compare with Other Layers: Elevation becomes even more powerful when viewed alongside layers like FEMA Flood Zones, Soil Surveys, or Slope.
Use Cases
Here are some examples of how you might apply the USGS Elevation layer:
- A farmer planning tile drainage uses the USGS Elevation map layer to identify low-lying areas where water tends to collect.
- A developer scouting land for a new housing project checks elevation to estimate grading needs and avoid flood-prone zones.
- A rancher managing grazing land looks at elevation to determine water access and locate higher, drier areas for cattle during wet seasons.
- An investor comparing parcels uses elevation data to understand how terrain may affect long-term land value and potential improvements.
Putting It in Context
Elevation data becomes most useful when combined with other insights. For example:
- Pairing Elevation and FEMA Flood Zones shows where terrain height intersects with flood risk.
- Viewing Elevation and Soil Surveys together can explain why some fields drain quickly while others stay soggy.
- Overlaying Elevation and Slope highlights how steepness varies across a property; a key factor for both farming and construction.
By layering these datasets in AcreValue, you can go beyond simple maps to get a deeper, more holistic understanding of the land.
Conclusion
The USGS Elevation map layer on AcreValue helps you see the land in three dimensions, revealing the contours and terrain features that shape how it can be used. Whether you’re farming, building, ranching, or investing, elevation data provides critical insights allowing you to make more informed decisions.