Data release for structure-from-motion DEMs derived from historical aerial photographs and their use in geomorphological mapping

This data release publishes datasets within and surrounding the Piney Branch watershed located in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan suburb of Vienna, Virginia. This dataset was utilized in studies that investigated the accuracy and application of geospatial modeling techniques, structure-from-motion (SfM) photogrammetric methods, and digital elevation model (DEM) differencing to assess and quantify geomorphic and anthropogenic landform change. The United States Geological Survey’s (USGS) three-dimensional digital elevation program (3DEP) light detection and ranging (LiDAR) digital terrain models (DTMs) were used together with and as a means for comparison to DTMs created from historical aerial imagery. The creation and usage of both historical and current elevation datasets allows for the mapping of landscape change over time. Such mapping and assessment of geomorphic and anthropogenic change provides critical information for land management, hazard identification, and the management of challenges related to urbanization