Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, in collaboration with the ISU Digital Ag Innovation Lab, is hosting Drone University focusing on imagery drones and effective use of this technology on Thursday, September 11 at the Northeast Research and Demonstration Farm near Nashua.

Designed as an introductory course, the workshop will provide growers, crop advisors, and ag professionals with foundational knowledge on the effective use of imagery drones for improved decision-making in crop management. Participants will also gain insight into the emerging role of spray drones in modern agriculture, including practical considerations and real-world applications.

• In addition to classroom training, attendees will also be able to participate in a hands-on flying exercise to learn how to conduct crop emergence and stand count estimates.  

Topics & Agenda:

8:30 a.m.    -  Registration

9:00 a.m.    -  Definitions, Terms, and Overview

9:30 a.m.    -  Drone Usage in Agriculture

10:30 a.m.  -  Recreational vs Commercial Missions

11:00 a.m.  -  Purchasing and Registration

11:30 a.m.  -  Best Practices and Flight Applications

Noon          -  Lunch

12:30'ish - 3:00 p.m. - Imagery Drone Demonstrations, Data Acquisition and Introduction to Spray Drones.

Presenters:

Doug Houser, digital agriculture extension specialist

Ryan Huffman, digital agronomy research manager with the ISU Digital Ag Innovation Lab

Registration:

Advance registration is required. 

The cost is $75 and includes lunch, refreshments and handouts. Registration for the workshop closes September 9 at 11:59 p.m., and the workshop is limited to 35 people. Confirmation of registration is sent via email.

Check-in begins at 8:30 a.m. with the program running from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Cancellations requesting a refund must be received by September 4 in writing to Registration Services at registrations@iastate.edu for a full refund.

 Register For The Drone Workshop 

Contact:

For more information, contact Houser at dhouser@iastate.edu, Terry Basol, extension field agronomist at tlbasol@iastate.edu or 641-426-6801, Josh Michel, extension field agronomist at jjmichel@iastate.edu or 563-581-7828.