Data
Data That's Already Waiting for You
From satellite imagery to statewide parcel data, U-Spatial gives the University of Minnesota community immediate access to a growing library of ready-to-analyze geospatial datasets.
Browse Available Datasets
Minnesota Elevation Data (Lidar & DEMs)
Access statewide lidar and digital elevation model data for Minnesota through U-Spatial — free for UMN students, faculty, and staff.
MN Geospatial Commons
Explore statewide and county GIS datasets through the Minnesota Geospatial Commons, highlighted by U-Spatial — free and open to all.
MN Natural Resources Atlas
Explore 450+ Minnesota natural resource data layers with the free, interactive Natural Resources Atlas, developed in part by UMN researchers.
Planet Labs Imagery
Explore statewide and county GIS datasets through the Minnesota Geospatial Commons, highlighted by U-Spatial — free and open to all.
Getting Access Depends on the Dataset
Shared Network Data
Aerial Imagery, Lidar, Elevation Models
Students, faculty, and staff can connect directly to U-Spatial's shared data drive by following the University's guide to connecting to a shared drive or network folder.
Licensed and Restricted Datasets
Planet Labs Imagery, MN County Parcels
Some datasets, like high-resolution satellite imagery or non-public parcel data require a short access request form before you can get started. Look for the request link on each dataset's page.
Not Sure Which Dataset Fits Your Project?
Tell us what you're trying to find, and we'll point you to the right data source or help you request access.
Data FAQs
Quick answers to what people ask us most about accessing and using U-Spatial's data.
Do I need special software to use this data?
Usually not, though it depends on the format
Most datasets work directly in ArcGIS Pro, ArcGIS Online, or QGIS. A few specialized formats may need a specific add-in. Check each dataset's page for tool-specific guidance.
Is this data free to use?
Yes, for the UMN community
Every dataset on this page is available to UMN students, faculty, and staff at no cost. Some, like Planet Labs imagery come with specific terms of use around redistribution and retention, so it's worth reviewing those before you build a project around them.
Can I use this data outside a UMN research or teaching context?
Check the specific terms first
Licensing terms vary by dataset. Publicly available sources, like the MN Natural Resources Atlas, are free for anyone. Others, like Planet Labs imagery, are licensed specifically for UMN research, coursework, and outreach. Review each dataset's terms of use before using it elsewhere.
How current is this data?
Varies by source
Some datasets, like Planet Labs imagery, update daily. Others, like aerial imagery collections, are refreshed on a multi-year cycle. Each dataset's page lists exactly what years or time ranges are available.
What if the dataset I need isn't listed here?
Ask! We may already have access, or can help you find it
This page covers U-Spatial's most commonly used datasets, but our network of resource (including the Borchert Map Library and the Big Ten Academic Alliance Geoportal) extends well beyond it. Contact the Help Desk and we'll help you track it down.