Find out predictions for drone use in agriculture in 2018.

Precision agriculture tools like unmanned aerial vehicles – also known as drones – are helping growers make smart, accurate decisions when it comes to their crops. Using this technology removes much of the guesswork that was previously unavoidable on the farm.

For example, many of today’s drones are equipped with thermal cameras that provide up-to-date information such as indicating where crops need water. Farmers can then use this data to adjust field irrigation and avoid wasting excess water. In addition, drone technology can be used to create maps that show where more fertilizer is needed – along with areas where there’s an abundance. As a result, growers can apply nutrients specifically where they are needed, increasing precision, efficiency, and yield while lowering costs.

Many experts predict drones will only become more widely used in the future. DroneDeploy, the leading cloud software platform for commercial drones, says 2017 was the biggest year yet for drones, with more than 66,000 remote pilots certified by the Federal Aviation Administration in the U.S. alone. The company expects drone usage in 2018 to surpass that of 2017 as more companies get into the drone industry and drones enter a new era of automation.

The future of precision agriculture

Business Insider experts agree, particularly when it comes to the agriculture industry. They cite research from Global Market Insights that forecasts the agricultural drone market size will exceed $1 billion and 200,000 units shipped by 2024. According to Business Insider, GMI attributes this expected growth to increasing awareness of the pros and cons of drones in agriculture among farmers. The company says technological advancements in farming techniques will propel demand during the forecast period.

We can’t wait to see what the future of precision agriculture will bring. If you’re ready to invest in precision technology for your operation, AgAmerica Lending can help with our industry-unique 10 year line of credit. Funds can be used for any business purpose and there are no mandatory pay downs, rest periods, or annual renewal paperwork requirements. Contact our team of land loan experts today to learn more about our custom financial solutions.