Location: Aerial Application Technology Research
Project Number: 3091-22000-036-000-D
Project Type: In-House Appropriated
Start Date: Oct 23, 2018
End Date: Apr 13, 2020
Objective:
Objective 1: Optimize aerial spray technologies for on-target deposition and drift mitigation.
Subobjective 1A: Characterize effects of spray systems and formulations on droplet size.
Subobjective 1B: Enhance spray swath deposition and uniformity.
Subobjective 1C: Develop criteria for efficient operation and selection of aerial spray systems.
Objective 2: Develop geospatial data processing and analyses methods for crop condition assessment and pest management.
Subobjective 2A: Develop variable rate application methods for plant growth regulators (PGRs) and defoliants based on physiological conditions.
Subobjective 2B: Develop precision aerial application methods for fertilization and disease control based on biotic conditions.
Approach:
Utilizing engineering and biological principles, laboratory and field studies will be conducted to evaluate the effects of various aerial application parameters, such as spray formulation and droplet size, on aerial application efficiency and biological efficacy. Efforts will focus on the integration of laboratory spray droplet measurements and remote sensing systems to maximize the efficacy of crop production materials while minimizing any off-target impact from these sprays. Plant health and species differences will be determined from remotely sensed data and used to make spray application decisions related to spatial locations and dosages. This project will develop and implement new and improved aerial application technologies for safe, efficient, and sustainable crop production and protection.
