Presented 12/05/2022 at the NAAA Ag Aviation Expo in Knoxville, TN - Aerial Application Technology Research Session

Author: Brad Fritz, PhD

Abstract: Maintaining operational efficiency while mitigating spray drift potential can be challenging, particularly with modern aircraft that are capable of higher airspeeds. One of the easiest and most effective tools for reducing off-target movement is increasing droplet size, which minimizes the fraction of spray volume containing smaller, drift prone droplets. Proper nozzle selection and use is the first, and most significant step towards improving overall spray characteristics. Models that guide nozzle selection and use are available for the most used widely used aerial application nozzles. However, straight stream nozzles designed for ground boom banded spray applications were recently tested and used by aerial applicators and similar models were requested. To support the increasing interest and use of these nozzles, and to provide the spray performance data needed to adhere with agrochemical product labels, new droplet size models were developed. Two straight stream nozzle types were tested in a laboratory high speed wind tunnel using laser diffraction to measure droplet size. Models were developed that cover all orifice sizes, spray pressures from 30 to 90 psi, and airspeeds from 120 to 180 mph. Overall performance and droplet size trends across the entire operational space are presented and discussed. These models allow users to identify nozzle sizes and spray pressures that will deliver specified droplet sizes and classifications at any desired operational airspeed.

Bio: Dr. Brad Fritz is an agricultural engineer and serves as the Research Leader of the USDA ARS Aerial Application Technology group in College Station, Texas. His areas of research include spray drift measurement and mitigation, spray atomization, and optimization of application technologies and methods to enhance on target deposition while mitigating off target impact. He is currently an active member of a number of professional organizations including the American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers, ASTM E35, the American Mosquito Control Association, and the National Agricultural Aviation Association.

Presented 12/05/2022 at the NAAA Ag Aviation Expo in Knoxville, TN - Aerial Application Technology Research Session

Authors: Mark Ledebuhr, Nicholas Tipper, Sarah Ziehm (Application Insight, LLC) and Brad Fritz, PhD (USDA-ARS AATRU)

Abstract: Application Insight spent many months in design and nearly a month in the USDA-ARS-AAT wind tunnel  innovating to improve the interactions between high-speed turbulent air and the spray jet in aerial applications. The goal of this work was reduction of driftable fines while maintaining a desirable droplet spectrum in real-world aerial application conditions. Focus was on a solution that is easily implemented and fits the cultural and operational needs of applicators.The successes, failures, and next steps of this project will be discussed. 

Bio: Mark Ledebuhr is the managing partner of Application Insight, LLC.  Application Insight focuses on developing and optimizing spray application systems, in specialty and commodity crops, developing and improving methods for evaluation of spray application. Mr. Ledebuhr works collaboratively with hardware and chemical manufacturers, universities, state and federal government agencies, and private growers worldwide. He is a member of American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers (ASABE) Application Systems Committee PM23/6, American Society of Testing and Materials (ASTM) Committees E35 and E29, American Society of Pesticide Safety Educators (AAPSE), National Association of Independent Crop Consultants.(NAICC) and a member of the US delegation to International Standards Organization (ISO) Subcommittee TC23/SC6 (Application Systems). Current active research projects include: optimization of aerial application nozzles and high-pressure delivery systems, improvement of spray educational tools, development of high-resolution, high speed swath analysis methodologies, adaptation of ultra-low volume (ULV) technologies for vector control in drones, Solid Set Canopy Deposition Systems (SSCDS) for orchard spraying, and novel methods of drift detection technology. Ledebuhr is the co-author of the recently released book Airblast 101, recognized as the definitive text on the use and optimization of airblast and air-assisted spraying technologies.

Presented 12/05/2022 at the NAAA Ag Aviation Expo in Knoxville, TN - Aerial Application Technology Research Session

Author: Chenghai Yang, PhD

Abstract: The rapid increase in remote sensing data sources today presents both opportunities and challenges to remote sensing practitioners and end users. Remote sensing data are generally obtained using three major types of platforms: satellites, manned aircraft, and unmanned aircraft systems (UAS). UAS will be appropriate if imagery is needed for a small area or at very high spatial resolution. Manned aircraft or satellites will be more effective for imaging at farm or regional level. Although image users are aware of the availability of different image data sources, many of them are not clear what type of imagery to select, how to obtain it, and how to convert it to useful map products. This presentation will demonstrate practical procedures on how to use Sentinel-2 satellite imagery and the QGIS software, both of which are freely available to end users, to create useable vegetation maps for crop growth assessment and prescription maps for site-specific chemical application. Specifically, step-by-step procedures will be presented on how to download Sentinel-2 images and the QGIS software and how to view and process the images using QGIS. As an example, a Sentinel-2 image from a cropping area will be used to create both a normal color and a color-infrared image composite for image visualization, and a normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) map for crop growth and health assessment. Furthermore, the NDVI image for a field will be classified into multiple zones to differentiate within-field plant growth variability that can be used for site-specific chemical application.

Bio: Dr. Chenghai Yang is a Research Agricultural Engineer with the USDA-ARS Aerial Application Technology Research Unit in College Station, TX. Dr. Yang’s research focuses on the development and application of remote sensing technologies for precision agriculture and pest management. His recent efforts have focused on developing low-cost imaging systems and image processing techniques and evaluating these systems with satellite imagery for assessing crop conditions for site-specific chemical applications. Dr. Yang has authored or co-authored over 160 peer-reviewed journal articles and serves on several national and international professional societies.

Presented 12/05/2022 at the NAAA Ag Aviation Expo in Knoxville, TN - Aerial Application Technology Research Session

Author: Randy Price, PhD

Abstract: A newer GoPro based pattern testing system was developed to analyze pattern test strings from aerial aircraft using standard parts and components from a local hardware store. The system uses a GoPro camera, green laser, and rhodamine filter to analyze the test strings, a cordless drill and measuring wheel to move the string through the device, and two 90-degree drill driver attachments and a paint roller to collect the strings. Advantages of the system are that it can be used over a larger set of environmental conditions, can collect test strings in 10 to 35 seconds, and requires fewer people to operate on the flight-line. 

Bio: Dr. Price is an Associate Professor at the LSU AgCenter, Baton Rouge, Louisiana.  He continually works on new equipment and methods to help the agricultural spray plane industry and is a certified Operation S.A.F.E. analyst.

Presented 12/05/2022 at the NAAA Ag Aviation Expo in Knoxville, TN - Aerial Application Technology Research Session

Author: Matt Gill

Abstract: The importance of periodically testing your spray pattern is well established and it is now a component of NAAA’s new Certified-Professional Aerial Applicator Safety Steward (C-PAASS) program. However, many applicators who wish to attend an Operation S.A.F.E. clinic are unable to do so. There may be a timing conflict with the clinic, or there may simply be no clinics regularly offered nearby. For folks in this situation, a new software tool and simple sampling protocol are available to help you perform your own spray pattern testing. The materials and methods used are almost identical to that of a standard Operation S.A.F.E. clinic, except that tightly spaced sampling cards are used in lieu of string and only a single ground helper is required. After processing the cards, the software tool provides swath-width and uniformity information as well as droplet spectrum data. With your data in hand, if you choose to remotely consult with an Operation S.A.F.E. Analyst, they may also record your official participation in Operation S.A.F.E.

Bio: Matt Gill is NAAA’s manager of education, safety and policy. He formerly was an Extension Specialist at the University of Illinois and has served as an Operation S.A.F.E. Analyst since 2011.

Presented 12/05/2022 at the NAAA Ag Aviation Expo in Knoxville, TN - Aerial Application Technology Research Session

Author: Tommy Butts, PhD

Bio: Dr. Tommy Butts is an Assistant Professor and Extension Weed Scientist at the University of Arkansas. His research and Extension efforts focus on identifying novel weed management strategies for Arkansas rice and soybean cropping systems through diversified approaches. These strategies include the utilization of cultural, mechanical, and chemical practices used in a holistic system for weed management. The overall goal is to provide sound, effective, and applicable weed management practices to Arkansas and Mid-South rice and soybean growers battling complex weed problems in their fields. Additionally, a primary focus is placed on identifying the impact of precision agriculture and application technologies on weed management as these tools continue to grow in popularity. Further emphasis is placed on helping to increase herbicide application knowledge, safety, and effectiveness, both from ground-based and aerial applications.

Presented 12/05/2022 at the NAAA Ag Aviation Expo in Knoxville, TN - Aerial Application Technology Research Session

Author: Daniel E. Martin, PhD

Abstract: Ever wondered if putting out a product at 2 GPA could work just as well as an application at 5 GPA? Applications at lower volumes not only save time and money, but also can make aerial applications more timely so that pests are controlled before they can do additional damage. The objective of this study was to determine if lower application rates of fungicide for control of sheath blight in rice can be just as effective as higher application rates. Aerial applications were made at 2 and 6 GPA. Efficacy of disease control was evaluated by plant pathologists at the Texas A&M AgriLife Research Station in Beaumont, Texas. In addition, aerial images were taken of the field, before and after treatment, to assess control. Results of the 2nd year of this study will be presented and discussed.

Bio: Dr. Martin is a Research Agricultural Engineer with the USDA-ARS Aerial Application Technology Research Unit and has over 30 years of training and experience in aerial spray application technologies for precision agriculture. He has authored/coauthored over 50 journal articles and has given over 100 technical presentations at regional, national, and international forums. He has held various leadership positions in professional societies and is recognized as a leading authority in manned and unmanned aerial application systems for precision agriculture and pest management.