Turf

UAV Benefits

• Improve turf and landscaping management practices
• Detect emerging patterns that might otherwise go unnoticed
• Improve lawn quality by targeting site-specific issues
• Manage sporting fields with reduced economic and environmental costs
• Evaluate different mowing techniques for desired appearance and performance
• Identify and quantify unwanted plants for removal as an alternative to applying chemicals

UAV Challenges

Timing: Timing flight before or after an event or management practice is critical to the outcome of the data.

• Tip: Know what information is needed and work with groundskeeping personnel to plan the flight based on mowing and event schedules.

Clouds: Shadows will ruin turf images and maps. A plant health map is a very valuable tool, but images with clouds are not.

• Tip: Fly when skies are fully overcast or clear for optimal image quality.

Crowds and people: Operating a UAV over a crowd of people without a wavier is a violation of Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations. This can be difficult in recreational settings.

• Tip: Use special caution and be proactive by having a waiver in place if people will be present.