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Alberta Provincial DEM

Explore Alberta’s Terrain

The Alberta Provincial Digital Elevation Model (DEM) dataset provides a foundational representation of Alberta's land surface, enabling users to visualize and analyze the province's topography. Derived from 1:60 000 scale air photography, this open dataset offers valuable elevation data for various applications.

Users can create 3D relief representations of Alberta's terrain, perform basic visualizations, or integrate the DEM with other spatial data for more analyses.

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Why Altalis Provincial DEM Stands Out

open data license

Open Data License

Freely accessible to the public, users can explore and use elevation data without licensing restrictions or costs.

seamless data

Seamless Coverage

The dataset is divided into five seamless Provincial Digital Elevation Model formats, providing continuous coverage across Alberta without disruptive tile boundaries.

versatile application

Versatile Applications

The Provincial DEM supports various analyses, including 3D visualizations and land cover classification catering to diverse user needs.

Alberta DEM

Key Components of Altalis Provincial DEM Series

The Provincial DEM dataset is derived from a foundational 1:20 000 DEM comprised of over 2600 individual map sheets. These sheets include detailed elevation data in the form of spot heights, mass points, and break lines defining terrain features. This data was further processed to create five seamless datasets: 

25m Hillshade: Provides a shaded relief representation of the terrain, enhancing visualization of landforms and surface features. 

25m Raster DEM: A gridded elevation dataset with a 25-meter resolution suitable for various spatial analyses and modeling applications. 

100m Hillshade: Offers a broader perspective of the terrain with a 100-meter resolution shaded relief model. 

100m Raster DEM: A lower resolution gridded dataset, ideal for large-scale analyses and visualizations. 

Alberta Provincial Terrain: A comprehensive dataset integrating elevation data, imagery, and derived products for a complete representation of Alberta's landscape.

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View the Provincial DEM Video

Who Uses Provincial DEM Data?

Elevation data is useful in various industries to make informed decisions, optimize operations, and drive innovation. The Provincial DEM, with its broad coverage and accessibility, serves as a great resource for professionals across diverse sectors.

 

Environmental Management
  • Government agencies, environmental consultants, and conservation organizations utilize the Provincial DEM to model water flow, delineate watersheds, and assess erosion risks. 
  • This data supports the development of effective conservation strategies and sustainable land management practices.

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Natural Resource Exploration
  • Geologists and exploration companies rely on the Provincial DEM to analyze geological structures and identify potential mineral deposits. 
  • This data aids in planning exploration activities, optimizing resource extraction, and minimizing environmental impact.
Infrastructure Development
  • Engineers, planners, and construction companies use the Provincial DEM for site assessments, route planning for infrastructure and transportation projects, and informing grading and drainage decisions. This ensures efficient project execution and minimizes costly rework.
Agriculture and Forestry
  • Farmers, foresters, and agricultural consultants utilize the Provincial DEM to analyze terrain characteristics, assess land suitability for crops or trees, and plan harvesting operations. 
  • This data supports sustainable land use practices and optimizes resource management.
Academic Research
  • Researchers and students in various disciplines leverage the Provincial DEM for terrain analysis, hydrological modelling, and land cover classification studies. 
  • This data facilitates scientific inquiry and contributes to a deeper understanding of our environment.