New Guide Helps Ag Drone Pilots Maximize Efficiency, Precision in Aerial Seeding

By Julie Harker

A new University of Missouri Extension publication can help farmers and ag drone pilots maximize efficiency and precision in aerial seeding.

Gurbir Singh, state extension specialist in soil science, agroecology and landscape management, has published a first-of-its-kind guide on calibrating utility drones for broadcast spreading pattern check.

“Until now, spreading patterns have been a guessing game,” said Singh. “This new guide will provide a document for calibration that will save time and money. This will help determine the spreading pattern, and adjustments can be made in the drone settings to correct it.”

The guide determines what the spread is going to be – how far the seed can actually go, Singh said. It takes into account the drone height, swath, speed of flying, hopper opening size and external factors such as crosswinds.

“Whether you’re seeding cover crops, forages or specialty crops, this guide is packed with practical, research-backed insights to help farms and ag drone pilots get the most out of their drone applications,” he said.

The step-by-step instructions help optimize drone settings, reducing waste and improving seed distribution, ultimately saving time and money in the field, he added.

Singh has been studying drones for three years at the MU Greenley Memorial Research Farm in Novelty, and he will have more insights to share in the future.

Greenley Research Farm is part of the MU Northern Missouri Research, Extension and Education Center.

“Utility Drones in Agriculture: Procedures for Drone Calibration and Worksheet for Evaluating Spreading Patterns” is available for free download at https://extension.missouri.edu/publications/mx150.