[GIS] How to Clip a DEM and retain DEM format

arcgis-desktopclipdem

I have a DEM file that I downloaded from the internet. I am trying to clip it to reduce the file size. So far I have tried two different methods, but neither of them produces a clipped file in DEM format (which I need to pass on to an AutoCAD user in DEM format).

  1. I have tried the Clip Tool under Data Management -> Raster -> Raster Processing. I used another image file for my Output Extent. The problem is that if I use DEM as the extension under "Output Raster Dataset" it will not run the tool. I am able to run this tool if I choose TIF, but I need it as a DEM.

  2. I have also tried right-clicking the DEM and choosing Data -> Export Data. I drew a graphic rectangle that I wanted to clip to, and used Selected Graphics (Clipping) for my extent. With this method, DEM is not an option in the Format drop down menu. I can use this method to export to a TIF, but again I am looking for a DEM.

My question is similar to this one, but the answers here don't address how to keep the DEM format:
Clipping raster using vector polygon in ArcGIS Desktop without having Spatial Analyst?

Is DEM a proprietary format (like SID) that I can't export without a special license or program? Or am I missing something else?

Best Answer

The USGS DEM format is a default GDAL input and output format. See this link for more information.

This means you can "clip" is using the -a_ullr command in gdal_translate or use gdal_warp using the -cl and -crop commands.

Here is some code to get you moving

gdalwarp -of DEM -cutline C:\temp\area_of_interest.shp -crop_to_cutline C:\temp\input.dem C:\temp\output.dem

This will allow you to clip to a vector polygon (shp) without using Spatial Analyst.

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