| 101 Jono set himself on a good flight path Drone Spray has two spray drones and two surveying drones used to assist the main unit to navigate. Sue Russell RURAL SERVICES » Drone Spray Jono Scott established Drone Spray, based out of Christchurch, in October 2021, having passed the various requirements and certifications to fly drones commercially. “There were a few standards to meet, including UAV pilot certification, handling and using chemicals and getting an Ag rating for flying the drone.” And to set himself on a good path, he’s invested in the very best drone and spraying technology available, using XAG technologies, performance built specifically for agricultural spraying. Drone Spray has two spray drones and two surveying drones used to assist the main unit to navigate exactly over areas of land, already programmed into the software. “We’ve just hired another pilot which is a big step forward for us.” Growing the business is very much about putting ones thinking cap on and thinking of all sorts of situations the technologies can be employed, something Jono is keen to explore, with input from others. “We know that spray drones are really useful in situations such as in gorges, weed spraying on hilly ground, and roof cleaning. For crop spraying, we have the advantage of avoiding crop and land damage and no risk of decontamination between crops.,” Jono says. Jono charges clients in two ways; by the hectare application for larger blocks and by the hour for spot spraying. The drone units can carry 16ltrs of spray, enough to continually spray for upward of 15 minutes, before needing refuelling. So that the most efficient use of time is made, a backup spray tank is filled and ready to be attached, replacing the empty tank that’s just completed spraying. “It’s a bit like it’s coming in for a pit stop like you see in the motor racing. We’re all about getting the maximum flying time to cover the area as quickly and effectively as possible.” Jono says the key benefit he provides clients is the quality of the spray application. The XAG system uses an atomizer system that can deliver a very uniform droplet size. This along with good downwash from the blades allows for lower water rates which further increase efficiency and lower costs. The droplet size can easily be altered, to reduce spray drift. Drone Spray operates all over Canterbury. “You could say starting the business when we did has been a bit of a journey. When and where we work is very much dictated by wind, so we try to get out early in the morning or later in the day.” Spraying can be applied in two main ways: Using manual pilot control, which Jono says is very good for patchy areas or small jobs. For quicker and more accurate application automated routes can be generated. For this, we use a RTK surveying pole to ensure accuracy. For larger areas, a surveying drone can create a map of the area from which a spray plan can be generated. And while agricultural drone technologies have advanced significantly, Jono says at the end of the day it still comes down the professionalism, understanding and skill-base of the operator and knowledge of the different application areas. “Drone spraying has evolved from a basic operation to using all the latest technologies effectively. We’re hoping to grow the business and promote is the sale and service support to owners of larger stations and crop growers. We have specific hardware and knowledge suited to these situations.” Using the technologies and systems beyond the agricultural setting is another business activity Jono is keen to see grow. Through the off-season, roof cleaning. “We’re talking to a church who were quoted $40,000 just for the scaffolding alone. This is where we become a really viable option. We’ve also undertaken some projects white-washing glasshouses.” Drone Spray also plans on introducing exciting new technology that is nearing commercial viability such as AI weed detection and variable application rates. Jono really thinks the uses for his spray technology go beyond how he is currently using them and is keen to hear from anyone with other ideas for their use.
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy NDc2Mzg=