UK Hosts February Drone Training for Farmers

By Blake Jackson

The Kentucky Agriculture Training School (KATS), part of the University of Kentucky’s Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment, is hosting a fly-in workshop on February 26 for agricultural drone pilots.

The event will focus on the latest research in spray optimization and offer participants the chance to test their equipment. Those without drones can attend as observers.

The workshop will take place at the UK Research and Education Center in Princeton and will highlight findings from research conducted by the UK Departments of Plant Pathology and Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering (BAE). The studies aim to improve drone-based spray systems for better management of foliar diseases in corn.

“We are excited to host this workshop and help drone applicators and farmers better understand how to optimize their equipment,” said Kiersten Wise, plant pathology Extension professor. “Our research indicates that understanding spray pattern and effective swath width can lead to more successful drone fungicide applications.”

The day will begin at 10:30 a.m. CST with a presentation by Wise and Tim Stombaugh, BAE Extension professor, covering the latest drone research. After lunch, participants with drones will fly over an apparatus that measures spray patterns, while UK faculty and staff analyze the application coverage. Participants will receive a detailed report via email. The workshop is expected to conclude at 3 p.m.

Drone operators must hold a Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate at a minimum. Depending on the drone, pilots may also need a Section 44807 exemption, a Part 137 license, or a Part 137 exemption. All drones must be FAA-registered and comply with Remote ID. The dye used for testing is food-safe and washable, with no pesticides applied.

Pre-registration is required. Up to 12 pilots can test drones for a $65 fee, and up to 20 observers may attend for $35. Register at KATSDronePatternTesting2026.eventbrite.com or contact Lori Rogers at lori.rogers@uky.edu or 270-365-7541 ext. 21317.

Photo Credit: istock-psisa