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ARS Home » Midwest Area » Madison, Wisconsin » Vegetable Crops Research » Research » Publications at this Location » Publication #312897
Title: Eyes in the sky

Author
item Jansky, Shelley

Submitted to: Spudman
Publication Type: Trade Journal
Publication Acceptance Date: 12/19/2014
Publication Date: 2/1/2015
Citation: Jansky, S.H. 2015. Eyes in the sky. Spudman. 2:40-41.

Interpretive Summary:

Technical Abstract: Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) have tremendous potential as tools for evaluation of research field plots. Standard cameras mounted to UAVs can document plant growth throughout the season and provide a permanent record of field performance. They can also be used to identify regions of the field with anomalies in plant growth caused by, for example, disease or water stress. We are investigating the potential to measure color as an indicator of plant health, especially in stress trials. We are also evaluating other uses for drones, including flying infrared cameras and carrying sampling equipment for collecting pathogen spores and insect pests.