Digital elevation models and data

Digital elevation models (DEM)

Laser imaging and digital elevation models (DEM) are used in Future Coasts to provide high resolution 3D representations of the land and sea floor. The complete set of the topographic (land) DEM data is now available, and can be accessed via the accessing future coasts data webpage.

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Topographic and Bathymetric DEM

The topographic (land-based) and bathymetric (sea-floor) digital elevation models (DEM) are being captured in separate projects along the entire Victorian coast. The majority of the topographic DEM capture took place in summer 2007/08. The data has been processed and quality assured and the complete set is now available.


The image below is an example of a 3D visualisation of a DEM based on Phillip Island.

Phillip Island 3D

Click on the pdf images below to view regional DEM maps along the Victorian coast:



The maps shown below are examples of the DEM data applied to create two-dimensional maps of elevation at the local scale.

2D representation of the topographic DEM data of Warrnambool

A 2D representation of the topographic DEM data of Warrnambool - full size map - 449KB (opens in new window)

 

 

 


2D representation of the topographic DEM data of Yambuk

A 2D representation of the topographic DEM data of Yambuk - full size map - 398KB (opens in new window)

 

 

2D representation of the topographic DEM data of Peterborough

A 2D representation of the topographic DEM data of Peterborough - full size map - 344KB (opens in new window)

 

 

This topographic and bathymetric elevation data will be combined with modelling sea level rise, storm surge, inundation and erosion to identify how the coastline is likely to change over time. This modelling will inform where longer-term adaptation work should be focussed. The final package of outcomes from Future Coasts will include a geographic information systems (GIS) tool which will help identify areas along the Victorian coast at greatest risk from sea level rise and storm surge.

The 3D view below, of the bathymetry (sea floor) in southern Port Phillip Bay highlights the shallow water in blue and the shipping channel in red. The depths are enhanced with an exaggerated vertical scale to create the 3D image.

Port Phillip 3D
The image below shows the bathymetry and adjacent topography in southern Port Phillip Bay. This is a birds-eye view of the same area as depicted in the image above.

Port Phillip Bay 3D
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How is the DEM being used?

Sections of the Future Coasts DEM have already been utilised by a number of public and private organisations and for a variety of projects.

Future Coasts is currently using the DEM for modelling the potential inundation extent of sea level rise and the effects of storm tides on the Victorian coast. This work is being processed and quality assured and will be released as a GIS dataset in mid 2011.

The Future Coasts DEM is a very accurate, versatile and advanced piece of spatial information, and can be used for a variety of specialised uses, such as environmental management projects and residential or commercial development projects.

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What is climate change?

We all hear about climate change but what is it exactly? This easy to understand information will guide you through it and answer some common questions.

Adapting to climate change video

Adapting to climate change video
This youtube clip is a quick and clear introduction to adaptation for Victorians. It will help you understand what adaptation is and what it means for you.