Kentucky Height Modernization Program

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Kentucky
Height Modernization

NOAA’s National Geodetic Survey, Morehead State University
KY Transportation Cabinet, KY Division of Geographic Information

It's all about the methods and tools for determining accurate heights. Height Modernization establishes accurate, reliable heights using GPS technology in conjunction with traditional leveling, gravity and remote sensing information. With it we will improve our knowledge of elevation, the most basic of mapping and planning tools, making it... better, faster, cheaper.
The Facts The existing network of NAVD88 benchmarks is deteriorating and there is no Federal initiative or funding to replace it. Heights can be determined quickly and accurately with GPS, but additional efforts are necessary to ensure its reliability and alignment with NAVD88. NGS developed the National Height Modernization Program to ensure that NAVD88 Heights determined with GPS are accurate and reliable. With financial assistance of Federal Height Modernization grants, Kentucky is off to a great start by installing the Kentucky CORS GPS network. There is much work that remains to be done to complete the task and fully benefit from the results.

Remaining Work Leveling; leveled heights to CORS and KGRN improve the geoid model accuracy. Gravity measurements also improve the geoid model and contribute to the next generation vertical datum. Digital Elevation Models incorporating the improved geoid increases reliability and accuracy of planning and mapping tools.

Height Mod Links

Kentucky Height Mod Timeline

KCGERO: Kentucky Center for Geospatial Education, Research, and Outreach
Height Modernization: A Short Q and A, NOAA
NGS Height Modernization National Program Information, NGS

More Accurate Elevation Data for Users of Geospatial Data
by David Moyer, U. of Wisconsin and Darin Henkel, Geodetic Specialists
Sizing Up Kentucky Techlines: Commonwealth Technology News
From the Ground Up by Mark Meade, Photo Science (link requires website registration)

KY Height Mod Forum Report (2004):report only, report including appendices
KY GIAC Height Mod Subcommittee (2002), the beginning of Height Mod in Kentucky

2002: Geographic Information Council Subcommittee develops KY Height Mod implementation plan

2003: Independent meetings and coordination with Morehead State University

2004: Kentucky Height Mod Forum, Congressman Rogers announces FY'05 appropriation

2005: FY'05 appropriation funds Kentucky CORS network

2006: Installation of KY CORS continues, FY'06 appropriation received

2007: KY CORS network completed, FY'06 grant leveling projects initiated, FY'07 Height Mod grant proposal accepted