Producers face a variety of challenges when managing livestock herds and the forage crops grown to feed them. In many ways, technology can help streamline management improving operation efficiency and productivity. An important and increasingly popular example of this technology is drones.
Drone technology can be utilized to help save time and reduce costs. For example, drones with high resolution cameras can determine forage utilization by cattle across entire pastures; saving time by reducing the need for ground-based pasture inspections. Recent studies have also shown that drones can be used to estimate and monitor forage crop biomass and scout for insects and disease.
For livestock management in particular, drones can be an invaluable tool. They can be used to inspect herds, find wayward animals, check for estrus, monitor during calving season, check water sources and even herd livestock. It’s important to note that after a short period of acclimation, cattle tend to adapt well to the sound of a drone.
A major downside to drones is the startup costs. A good imaging drone will cost anywhere from $500-5,000. Further, to legally fly a drone for agricultural purposes, a Part 107 license must be obtained by passing a Federal Aviation Administration exam, which costs $175. Please note that additional requirements must be completed to apply pesticides with a drone. — Samantha Daniel, Nebraska Extension
