Site-specific control of Canada thistle by drone

Project Details

Status: Completed
Investment: $275,000
Commodity: Multiple Crops
Organization: LandView Drones Inc.
Investigator: Markus Weber

This project will examine spray distribution patterns, field efficiencies of the spraying equipment, and best practices for unmanned aerial application.

Why is this research important for Alberta ag?

There is a clear opportunity to improve financial outcomes for Alberta farmers by applying Lontrel herbicide only to those parts of the field that have Canada Thistle patches, at timing that maximizes the long-term impact of that herbicide on Canada Thistle energy reserves while simultaneously reducing the use of preharvest glyphosate as a Canada Thistle control measure.

This project will examine spray distribution patterns, field efficiencies of the spraying equipment, and best practices for unmanned aerial application.

What benefits can producers expect from this research?

This research will provide necessary expertise and software to enable either farmers or custom applicators to spray patchy perennial weeds effectively by drone.

Funded in part by the Government of Canada under the Canadian Agricultural Partnership, a federal-provincial-territorial initiative.