The Great Lakes Mapping Act directs the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to create detailed, high-resolution maps of the lakebeds of all five Great Lakes by December 31, 2030. The mapping effort will collect bathymetric data (underwater depth and terrain information) and compile existing lakebed data into a comprehensive public resource. NOAA must coordinate with state governors, relevant state agencies, regional observing systems, and other partners to carry out this work. The agency will release completed maps and data to the public throughout the project and must make all final maps, charts, and related information publicly available within 180 days of completion. Congress has authorized $50 million per year from 2025 through 2029—totaling $250 million—to fund this mapping initiative, with those funds remaining available through fiscal year 2030.
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