Drones

Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) are a technology creating new and exciting opportunities in education with a broad impact to many careers including agriculture.  Here at the Ag Center we have invested in a Phantom 3 outfitted with a 4K RGB (red, green, blue) camera as well as NDVI (normalized differential vegetative index) camera.  The RGB camera takes the typical pictures that we see with our eyes.  The NDVI camera takes in-fared wavelengths and uses them to take pictures that analyze the crop canopy.  Coupled with software that allows the remote pilot in command to upload a flight pattern as well as picture points into the drone, field maps are developed.  These maps can then be analyzed in conjunction with soil test results, yield maps, and weather data to solve problem spots in your field.

If you’re interested in learning more about drones and the opportunities that they present, please contact Hannah Barrett via email hannah.barrett@clcmn.edu.  There are also workshops available that will provide an introduction to UAS and geospatial technology and the tools to incorporate this technology into your farm.  Come learn about this exciting technology and get a hands on experience in the maintenance and operation of UAS.  Then transform the digital data collected by UAS into usable industry products.

Drone Videos

Small UAS Part 107 Ground School

This course provides a comprehensive overview of federal aviation regulations governing small UAS. It is designed for professionals who will operate small UAS in commercial environments.  It provides the knowledge to successfully pass the FAA certification exam.  Practical field experience, lessons learned, and other standard operating procedures will help in applying this information and support successful UAS operations.  This course is offered through multiple formats including distance delivery and on-site workshops.  All delivery methodologies include synchronous time with subject matter experts and instructors.  As a part of the course, all students will have access to ongoing training resources and other supporting operational information.  See website for currently scheduled offerings. (link to Agcentric drones, drones, drones tab