Why Chose Drone Spraying Over Plane Spraying?
Struggling to balance yield potential with environmental concerns? Traditional airplane spraying for corn fungicide application can leave farmers with uneven coverage, potential for drift, and limitations around sensitive areas.
Here at Precision Agridrone Solutions, we offer a game-changer: drone crop spraying. This innovative technology delivers a targeted, efficient, and data-driven solution for your central Illinois farm. Drone spraying minimizes environmental impact with precise application, maximizes yields with uniform coverage, and allows you to confidently spray near field borders and waterways. See how drone fungicide application can revolutionize your farm!
2023 On-Farm Corn Fungicide Application Study - Plane vs. Drone
by Becks
2023 Multi Location Results
Observation
None of these fields showed disease pressure at the time of application. However, fields one and two did show some Tar Spot late in the season, but not enough to cause concern. Overal l, the drone provided the greatest yield advantages, even with the lack of disease. Plant health benefits were observed in all treatments.
Plant Health Map - Field 1
2023 Fungicide Application - Plane vs. Drone Return on Investment
Field 1: LA Harpe, IL | Total Acres of Trial Blocks: 16.2 Acres
FIELD INFORMATION | Planted 5/12/23 | Harvested 10/17/23 | Population 33,600 Seeds/A. | Row Width 30 in. | Previous Crop Soybeans | Tillage Fall: No-Till, Spring: Vertical-Till | Total Nitrogen 210 units
Field 2: Marietta, IL | Total Acres of Trial Blocks: 12.2 Acres
FIELD INFORMATION | Planted 5/2/23 | Harvested 9/28/23 | Population 36,000 Seeds/A. | Row Width 30 in. | Previous Crop Corn | Tillage Fall: In-Line Rip, Spring: Field Cultivate | Total Nitrogen 220 units
Field 3: Jamestown, OH | Total Acres of Trial Blocks: 5.5 Acres
FIELD INFORMATION | Planted 4/18/23 | Harvested 10/24/23 | Population 34,000 Seeds/A. | Row Width 30 in. | Previous Crop Corn | Tillage Fall: No-Till, Spring: Vertical Till | Total Nitrogen 220 units
As we pull the data from each field we can see that the return on investment (ROI) with the drone in these circumstances is significantly different than the ROI with a plane. Two of these fields were in Illinois.
Field one 16.2 Acres.
Plane total ROI: Negative 214 dollars
Drone total ROI: Plus 62.53 dollars
ROI difference: $276.53
ROI difference Per Acre: $17.07
Field two 12.2 Acres
Plane total ROI: Plus 33.18 dollars
Drone total ROI: Plus 178.98 dollars
ROI difference: $145.80
ROI difference Per Acre: $11.95
Field three 5.5 Acres
Plane total ROI: Negativ 83.10 dollars
Drone total ROI: Plus 86.96 dollars
ROI difference: $170.06
ROI difference Per Acre: $30.92
Corn Fungicide Application Study - Ground vs. Drone by Becks
Observation
None of the testing locations experienced much, if any, disease pressure during the growing season. The fungicide applications were all made in the morning when there was a dew on the leaves, which likely helped compensate for the lower carrier rate of the drone application. The increased concentration of the fungicide from the drone may also play a role in these results. This was a first-year study, and additional years of research and data are needed before making recommendations.
2023 Multi-Location Results
Water Sensitive Cards @ Ear Leaf
2023 Fungicide Application - Ground vs. Drone Return on Investment
Farmer-Founded, Farmer-Focused: Precision Agridrone Solutions IS Your Farming Neighbor
Precision Agridrone Solutions isn't just about drones; it's about fellow farmers. Founded and operated by a multi-generational farming family right here in Central Illinois, we understand the challenges and opportunities you face. We leverage cutting-edge drone technology to deliver targeted crop spraying solutions, applying our deep agricultural knowledge to optimize your yields and minimize environmental impact. With Precision Agridrone Solutions, you're getting personalized service from people who share your passion for the land.
Frequently Asked Questions
Drone Crop Spraying Q&A for our customers in central Illinois.
What products can be applied with a drone?
Both liquid and granular products. The most common liquid applications are fungicides, insecticides, foliar fertilizers, and herbicides. Granular applications include broadcast cover crops and fertilizers.
Due to the prop wash designed to distribute and penetrate the product across and through the canopy, we have found very high efficiency with a wide range of products at a low volume rate.
What licensing does Precision Agridron Solutions carry?
Federal Certifications:
Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Part 107 License: This is the basic drone pilot license required to operate a drone for commercial purposes.
FAA Part 137 Certification: This specialized license applies specifically to agricultural spraying operations using drones. It ensures the pilot has the knowledge and skills for safe and responsible application of chemicals from an unmanned aircraft.
Potential FAA Part 137 Exemption: If Precision Agridrone Solutions uses drones exceeding 55 pounds, they might need an additional exemption from the FAA for operating heavier unmanned aircraft in agricultural spraying.
State Certifications:
Illinois Aerial Commercial Applicator License: This license, issued by the Illinois Department of Agriculture, is crucial for anyone applying pesticides or other agricultural chemicals aerially, including with drones.
Additional Considerations:
Insurance: We are fully insured during all operations to keep your assets safe.
Can a spray drone fly under power lines or windmills on my field?
Yes, drones excel compared helicopter or plane sprayers in this type of situation because they can still apply product safely and evenly near wind turbines, power poles, and under power lines.
What is a crop dusting drone?
Crop dusting or “Aerial Application” is the usage of specially designed drones to apply a wide range of Agricultural products from Herbicides to Fertilizers here in central Illinois. Even some seeding can be done by these drones.
Does the spray drift from drones?
We do not make applications when the wind speeds are not favorable to the applications we are making; "not favorable" is determined by product volume, composition, label regulations and recommendations, and site-specific hazards depending on location in Illinois.
Is drone crop spraying right for me?
Let's find out together with a free consultation! Contact us at 217-370-2641.
What areas do you provide drone spraying service?
At Precision Agridrone Solutions, we're proud to serve farmers across central Illinois. Our drone expertise is available to those located in:
Jacksonville
Springfield
Decatur
Peoria
Bloomington
Champaign
Urbana
Quincy
Galesburg
Lincoln
Mattoon
Charleston
Danville
Macomb
Litchfield
Carlinville
South Jacksonville
Taylorville
Pekin
Morton
Normal
Monticello
Clinton
Shelbyville
Effingham
Vandalia
Hillsboro
Staunton
Litchfield
Carlinville
Auburn
Franklin
Waverly
New Berlin
Berlin
Pleasant Plains
Virginia
Arenzville
Beardstown
Counties:
Morgan
Scott
Cass
Menard
Sangamon
Macon
McLean
Champaign
Adams
Knox
Logan
Coles
Vermilion
McDonough
Schuyler
Brown
Pike
Scott
Greene
Macoupin
Montgomery
Christian
Fayette
Shelby
Effingham
Bond
Fayette
Montgomery
Please note: This is not an exhaustive list. If you're located in central Illinois near me and unsure if we service your area, feel free to contact us for a free consultation!