> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.basin.global/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.basin.global/appendix/land-cover-classification-and-ecosystem-typologies/ecosystem-classification-frameworks/usgs-national-land-cover-database-nlcd.md).

# USGS National Land Cover Database (NLCD)

The [National Land Cover Database (NLCD)](https://www.usgs.gov/programs/national-geospatial-program/land-cover) offers comprehensive, nationwide land cover data at a 30-meter resolution, using Landsat Thematic Mapper imagery. It provides detailed information on characteristics like thematic classes (urban, agriculture, forest), impervious surfaces, and tree canopy cover. NLCD uses real-time data and supports a range of applications, including ecosystem health assessment, biodiversity mapping, climate change prediction, and land management policy development. Created by the Multi-Resolution Land Characteristics Consortium, led by the U.S. Geological Survey, NLCD data is freely available to the public.

## NLCD Land Cover Types

* Forest
* Water
* Wetlands
* Barren
* Herbaceous
* Shrubland
* Perennial Ice/Snow
* Developed
* Planted/Cultivated