The Kentucky Agriculture Training School (KATS), a University of Kentucky Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment program, is offering a fly-in workshop Feb. 26, where agricultural drone pilots can learn the latest spray optimization research and test their equipment. Those without drones may observe the testing.

The workshop, held at the UK Research and Education Center in Princeton, will share the results of research conducted by the UK Departments of Plant Pathology and Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering (BAE) on optimizing drone-based spray systems to improve the management of foliar diseases in corn. 

“We are excited to host this workshop and help drone applicators and farmers better understand how to optimize their equipment,” said Kiersten Wise, plant pathology Extension professor. “Our research indicates that understanding spray pattern and effective swath width can lead to more successful drone fungicide applications.” 

The workshop will be held at 300 Extension Farm Road in Princeton. At 10:30 a.m. CST, Wise and Tim Stombaugh, BAE Extension professor, will give a presentation on drone research. 

Following lunch, applicators will fly their drones over an apparatus that documents spray pattern. UK faculty and staff will then analyze the application pattern and coverage. A report of the data will be sent to participants by email. The workshop is expected to conclude at 3 p.m. 

It is important to note that applicators testing drones must be compliant, and, at a minimum, hold the Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate. If required, pilots must also have the Section 44807 exemption, Part 137 license to operate an agricultural spray drone, or a Part 137 exemption. All drones must be registered with the FAA and comply with Remote ID. The dye used to measure coverage is a washable, food-safe dye that will not stain equipment. No pesticides will be applied.

Tickets are limited, and pre-registration is required. Up to 12 pilots may test their drones in the swath test for a $65 fee. Up to 20 additional observers may register for $35. 

Visit https://KATSDronePatternTesting2026.eventbrite.com to register or contact Lori Rogers, lori.rogers@uky.edu, 270-365-7541 ext. 21317. 

To learn more about KATS, visit https://kats.mgcafe.uky.edu.   

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Writer: Jennifer Elwell, jennifer.elwell@uky.edu   

The Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment is an Equal Opportunity Organization with respect to education and employment and authorization to provide research, education information and other services only to individuals and institutions that function without regard to economic or social status and will not discriminate on the basis of race, color, ethnic origin, national origin, creed, religion, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information, age, veteran status, physical or mental disability or reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity.