Farmers are keen to use drones for several passes over the field, including using UAVs for scouting and even spraying. But, to date, only one herbicide has been approved for spraying in Canada, and it’s for non-crop applications.
Drones have come a long way in the last decade and the potential for agricultural uses are almost limitless, says George Gaeke of Olds College, who is currently conducting research on drone uses in agriculture.
Drones are currently being used in the agricultural arena to broadcast seed, fertilize fields, map out elevation and low-lying areas. Some are equipped with cameras to help inform what areas need fertilization or irrigation, for example.
Story continues below video — check it out to see spray drones in action, including coloured spray patterns for a great visual.
The big question remains: when will producers be able to legally use spray drones to apply pesticides? Research throughout the country is ongoing when it comes to assessing differences in spray patterns when compared to spray planes and other methods of application (drone propellers are parallel to the ground, not perpendicular). This work is vital to adding drone application to pesticide labels.
While it’s true Canada is behind the U.S. in approving agriculture uses for drones, there are significant challenges in accumulating data from drone applications. Assessing spray patterns needs to happen in low-wind environments, a tall order in Alberta to be sure; plus there needs to be good data gleaned from the effects of spray patterns in varying environmental conditions.
The size and weight of drones currently on the market means that future regulations need to be carefully considered before regulations ease, too.
Gaeke had hoped to see regulations ease this year, allowing farmers to spray using drones for the current growing season, however it is difficult to speculate when farmers might be able to take to the skies with these flying farm assistants. Until drone application is approved on pesticide labels, the fact remains that this use remains illegal and carries a potential fine of $10,000.
Related:
Drone seeding cover crops into soybeans
Spraying in challenging conditions
Exploding Sprayer Myths: Maverick’s mojo and spraying by drone
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