MU Field Day to Showcase Drone Farming Innovations

By Blake Jackson

The University of Missouri's Graves-Chapple Extension and Education Center near Corning will host its annual field day on August 26, spotlighting how producers are utilizing drone technology to boost efficiency and crop yields.

According to Jim Crawford, MU Extension agricultural engineer and center director, attendees will also learn about current crop disease and pest concerns affecting Missouri farms this season.

The event, which is free to attend, begins with breakfast at 7:30 a.m. Wagon tours of the 200-acre research farm will start at 8:15 a.m., with state extension specialists presenting the latest agronomy research. A complimentary lunch will wrap up the day at noon.

“We will have a wide variety of experts on hand to answer the most pressing questions farmers are facing,” Crawford said. “We will also demonstrate some of the new technologies that are available to make your operation more efficient.”

The lineup includes state weed scientist Kevin Bradley sharing the latest weed management strategies, while state plant pathologist Mandy Bish will address current crop disease concerns.

State crops entomologist Ivair Valmorbida will provide updates on corn and soybean pests. Climatologist Zachary Leasor is also scheduled to give a historical overview of this year’s unusual weather patterns.

Drone and terrace technologies will be a key focus. One of Bradley’s students will compare drone spraying with traditional methods like spray rigs and airplanes. Caleb O’Neal, plant science specialist, will cover the fundamentals of drone operation.

Soil scientist Gurbir Singh will present on drone use for fertilizer and cover crop applications. Meanwhile, state agronomist Kelly Nelson will discuss new tile inlet research for terraces.

Ag business and policy extension specialist Ben Brown will provide a harvest season economic outlook. Agronomist Wayne Flanary will share water infiltration strategies, and Leon McIntyre will explain hybrid corn production. Soybean specialist Andre Froes de Borja Reis will introduce his soybean in-season management tool.

For additional details, contact Crawford at 660-744-6231. No registration is necessary.

Photo Credit: gettyimages-seregalsv