There is a good deal of interest in using unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) or unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) or drones for the application of pesticides. In this context, a drone is a small, remotely controlled fixed-wing or rotary-wing aircraft. A drone application might be appealing to individuals wanting to spray where it is not practical or desirable to use a traditional spray, or perhaps, for spot spraying, as discussed in a recent eUpdate article. However, applications are limited by the size of the payload the unmanned aircraft system is able to carry, and compliance and logistics for such applications can be challenging. Downdraft can affect the deposition of the product and cause off-target movement or volatilization. If you are an applicator who is considering using a drone for applications, here is some basic information regarding licenses that you need to know before you apply any pesticides. You should comply with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations, Kansas Department of Agriculture (KDA) requirements, and pesticide label directions to operate a drone for pesticide spraying.
Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Regulations
All drone-based chemical applications must adhere to FAA regulations, most of which are described in the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) under 14 CFR Part 137, which governs the use of aircraft – including drones – to apply agricultural chemicals. In order to obtain a Part 137 UAS certification, an individual should apply for the necessary exemptions, submit necessary documentation, including drone registration information and the pilot’s agricultural aircraft operator certificate. Drone registration costs $5 and is valid for three years. In addition, a drone operator must have a Remote Pilot Certification, which requires passing an exam and paying a fee. The certification must be renewed every 24 months by training and testing, which is available online at no cost. The testing and training include information about regulations, airspace, weather, and night operations.
Kansas Department of Agriculture (KDA) Requirements
State-level regulations require that proof of drone registration with the FAA be submitted to the Kansas Department of Agriculture (KDA), evidence of certification, such as a Remote Pilot Certificate, and additional information, including the drone's make, model, and serial number. Moreover, the operator must be certified as a commercial pesticide applicator in the appropriate category, such as Agricultural Pest Control, through KDA. This certification ensures that the operator is knowledgeable about safe pesticide application practices. The applicator needs to provide the Kansas Department of Agriculture with the make, model, serial number (if applicable), and any other requested information related to the drone and submit a completed and signed application to apply pesticide products. If a drone-based pesticide spray is operated as a business, a Pesticide Business License from KDA is required. This license verifies that the business complies with state regulations regarding pesticide application. Moreover, such a business should complete an application to receive approval before completing such pesticide applications. More information about KDA policies and different applications can be found on the KDA website: https://www.agriculture.ks.gov/divisions-programs/pesticide-and-fertilizer/unmanned-aircraft-systems
Allowed Application Categories
Commercial pesticide applications via drones or unmanned aircraft systems are only permitted in the following categories and subcategories:
The individual who is operating the drone during the pesticide application must be a certified applicator in the category that applies to the application. The business needs to comply with all existing requirements for obtaining a pesticide business license.
Pesticide Label Requirements
Finally, commercial pesticide applications via drone or unmanned aircraft systems need to comply with the label requirements of each pesticide product being applied. Remember, the label is the law! Unfortunately, there is little clear guidance on pesticide labels that pertains specifically to drone applications. One thing to note is that if the label prohibits aerial application, then the product cannot be applied by a drone. If an aerial application is permitted, the application rate and other parameters need to be in compliance with the label. Also, some manufacturers and users are adopting commercial nozzles meant for self-propelled sprayers, which can be a concern for product deposition and coverage. It is the applicator’s responsibility to avoid off-target movement and be aware of their surroundings.
Frannie Miller, Pesticide Safety and IPM Coordinator
fmiller@ksu.edu
Sarah Lancaster, Extension Weed Science Specialist
slancaster@ksu.edu
Deepak Joshi, Precision Ag Specialist
drjoshi@ksu.edu
Jeremie Kouame, Weed Scientist – Hays
jkouame@ksu.edu
Tags: drones pesticide application FAA UAVs