Agriculture Drones Reached New Heights in 2022

While many headwinds rocked the agriculture world in 2022, one constant remained the same — agriculture’s propensity to innovate. Drone crop spraying, once seen as a novel innovation, is now another tool in the toolbox for countless farmers and ranchers across the country. 

“Early innovators became early adopters in 2022,” said Rantizo President and COO Joe Riley. “2023 will be the year they become the early majority.”

In 2022 alone, Rantizo drones flew over 216% more acres than in 2021, while adding nearly 100 additional drones and pilots to their fleet. No longer the future of farming, drone spraying exemplifies today’s modern agriculture.

Technology Advancements Drive Rapid Adoption

When drones for spraying started to become part of the conversation in 2018 — the same year Rantizo was founded — the idea seemed farfetched to the majority. Frequently thought of more as a toy than a tool, drones have become meaningful tools for producers.

“The August 2020 derecho that decimated cornfields throughout Iowa is a perfect example of how drones are a solution for several headwinds,” said Riley. “Drones were able to apply cover crops on those decimated cornfields. As we head into 2023, drought conditions are still very top of mind. Drones are a great fit for drought conditions when reducing input costs and maintaining crop and soil health is crucial.”

The very first drone Rantizo used for demonstrating, testing and applying could cover a single acre in one hour. Now, drones can carry 10, 30, and even 40 liters of liquid payload. At standard labeled rates, that means drones approved for operation in the United States can now cover anywhere from 6-26 acres in one hour.

“With increased capacity and regulatory approvals that allow multiple drones to swarm, drones are not just a tool in the toolbox, but they must be needed to sustain a competitive advantage,” said Riley.

Date: February 23, 2023

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