[UAS] UAS as a tool in teaching ag

[Ward, Richard - (rickw)]

Colleagues- I am interested in developing concepts and applications for using MAC and other Exp Station Units as tools in UA classes and Extension.  UAV's seem to have potential to contribute to this.   I am imagining that a semester-long combination of a fixed-wing all-of-farm scans, coupled with copter-based stationary still images and prerecorded/ live-stream video could be used to provide a framework through which various aspects of farm management and crop development could be taught.    At least an initial on-site visit would be valuable, but not required, I think.   Tillage operations, pesticide applications, harvesting, etc. could be shown from elevation, ground level from side, ground level from behind, close up from behind, etc.   Crop genetic variation in phenology, morphology, etc. ; plus design of breeding programs could be shown and tracked through the semester.    I imagine that courses in weed management, cropping systems, irrigation management, plant breeding, field research methods, and general agriculture could be augmented.    I am guessing that our Yuma colleagues are already doing some of this with their Community College connections, and that model could be expanded.

Are any of you or colleagues elsewhere pursuing these concepts?  I welcome links or contacts that could inform this concept.

Rick

Rick Ward, Director
Maricopa Agricultural Center
Bud Antle Endowed Chair
University of Arizona
37860 W Smith-Enke Rd
Maricopa AZ 85138

Cell: +1 (520) 510-5785 / Fax: +1 (520) 374-6394 / Skype: wheatbreeder /rickw at email.arizona.edu<mailto:rickw at email.arizona.edu>
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