Every year, those in the agriculture industry are introduced to new technology that offers opportunities to make their lives and production practices more efficient.
Some of this technology is helpful and some of it is laughable, but it all shows that this industry is moving with the times. One of the newest examples of ag tech is drones and stockmen just might be surprised at what these unmanned aircrafts have to offer.
What Is A Drone?
A drone is an unmanned aircraft system (UAS) or unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) that is capable of being flown remotely from an operator on the ground or a software controlled flight plan that also encompasses GPS, and can be equipped with a camera. According to an article on TechTarget.com, drones “have most often been associated with the military, but they are also used for search and rescue, surveillance, traffic monitoring, weather monitoring and firefighting, among other things.”
How Could I Use A Drone For My Herd?
One of the emerging ways farmers are using drones is to monitor their livestock. It is no secret that farmers spend a great deal of time checking their stock and the larger the farm, the harder it can be and the longer it takes. This job can be made more efficient with a drone.
“Unmanned aerial vehicles may save farmers time and money with bird’s-eye views of farmland,” said Bill Wiebold, University of Missouri Extension agronomy specialist.
Some drones are equipped with infrared sensors to track missing livestock, explained Jamey Jacob, professor of mechanical and aerospace engineering at Oklahoma State University in Stillwater. Drones also have the potential to replace herding dogs down the road during round ups.
Drones, according to Modern Farmer magazine, have a “lighter impact” on the farm, and are cheaper over the life of the drone than a herding dog or an ATV.
Entry-level aircraft cost $500 to $1,500, and for about $300, farmers and ranchers can install cameras that send clear still or video images directly to the farmer’s smartphone.
Do Drones Require A License?
Currently, farmers and other individuals using drones for a non-commercial purpose must follow the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) guidelines for unmanned aircraft hobbyists: 1. Fly below 400 feet and remain clear of surrounding obstacles 2. Keep the aircraft within visual line of sight at all times. 3. Remain well clear of and do not interfere with manned aircraft operations. 4. Don’t fly within 5 miles of an airport unless you contact the airport and control tower before flying. 5. Don’t fly near people or stadiums. 6. Don’t fly an aircraft that weighs more than 55 pounds. 7. Don’t be careless or reckless with your unmanned aircraft – you could be fined for endangering people or other aircraft.
As of Feb. 19, 2016, drones weighing between .55 and 55 pounds must be registered with the FAA. The cost is $5. For more information, go to registermyuas.faa.gov.
