Unmanned aerial vehicles have been around for a while, but spray drones are a relatively new technology found on many Michigan farms. Applying herbicides, pesticides and fungicides with a drone offers many benefits compared to traditional ground rigs. Drones can get to hard-to-reach terrain without getting stuck or causing compaction. They are also highly efficient in dispersing products accurately using their global positioning system. However, these systems come with added complexity, including state and federal certification requirements and advanced spray systems that must adapt to varying crop and weather conditions.
To hear more about the pros and cons of these newer systems, join in the upcoming Field Crops Virtual Breakfast Series on Aug. 7, 2025. Michael Reinke of Michigan State University Extension will tell us about his recent experience in using a spray drone on-farm.
Immediately following Reinke's presentation, Jeff Andresen, Michigan State University Extension agricultural meteorologist, will present a detailed weather outlook and report.
The Field Crops Virtual Breakfast Series sessions from the MSU Extension field crops team are held every week during the growing season via Zoom. The Virtual Breakfast series keeps attendees informed of in-season updates and issues of concern for field crops. These virtual meetings take place every Thursday morning from 7-8 a.m., March through September 2025. Participants are encouraged to log into the Zoom link 5 minutes prior to the start time to ensure connectivity and receive announcements. The first half of each session includes a timely presentation from a topic expert and the weekly weather forecast. The second half of each session includes time for Q&A’s and updates with MSU specialists and educators.
Restricted use pesticide (RUP) credits and certified crop adviser (CCA) continuing education units are available most weeks for live attendees.
Participants must sign up to receive an email notification with instructions for joining the Virtual Breakfast. You only need to do this once and you will receive the Zoom link and call-in phone number, as well as weekly reminders every Wednesday and Thursday. Participants receiving emails can opt out at any time.
