Verifying Z-Values in DEM created from LAS dataset, and Contours created from DEM

[TorySanna]

I have a large LAS Dataset, consisting of about 25 tiles.  I used the LAS Dataset to raster tool in order to create a raster surface from the Lidar data, the DEM itself prior to creation of the raster surface had Z-values.  The photo snip attached, snip_example_1, is how I processed the LAS dataset.  

Next from the DEM, contour lines were generated.  How I ran the tool is below attached, "Snip_example_2".  My main question here is what is the easiest way to verify there are Z-values on these contours?  They are to be utilized to create 3D surfaces eventually, but searching through the web and other sources I cannot seem to verify any actual methods to pretty much check the data for accuracy/elevation.  Any examples, tips?

Thank you

[SteveLynch]

There are not any z-values on the contour lines, the output from the Contour tool is a 2D polyline feature class. Each polyline has an attribute, named contour. Think of slicing a potato, the lines represent these horizontal slices.

-Steve

[TorySanna]

Is it possible at all to assign Z-values to the contour lines, based off of the elevation data from the original DEM?  OR do the contour lines have to be created a different way to have z-values assigned?

[JimCousins · Accepted solution]

Tory,

 After you have created contours, the contour elevation is an attribute in the table. If you have the 3D Analyst extension, 3D ANALYST TOOLS >> 3D FEATURES >> FEATURE TO 3D BY ATTRIBUTE.

Regards,

 Jim