UAV uses in the AGRICULTURE | NATURAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT sector enable users to execute their analysis, planting, monitoring, application, and maintenance tasks associated with cultivation of crops, management of vegetation, and tracking of wildlife. UAV uses within this sector are commonly executed over significant distances and expansive land areas from relatively open and unobstructed launch/landing areas. Due to the potential range of sensor options applied for uses within this sector, UAV payload, flight time, and interchangeability of sensor payloads are generally key UAV performance attributes.

UAS USES IN THE AGRICULTURE | NATURAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT SECTOR

This use focuses on collection of information to assess the condition of and/or damage to property. Collected information is used by insurance adjusters and others that must verify the condition of property prior to offering insurance or damage to property after damage. UAS operations often include relatively short flights requiring launch from and operation in confined spaces. Due to the need to generally operate UAS close to structures, UAS attributes related to obstacle avoidance and first-person view (FPV) are often key.

Key UAS LIFE-CYCLE Considerations for This Use

In addition to the priority user requirements identified above there are some use-specific considerations that should inform your development of the UAS life-cycle capabilities needed to successfully execute this use. We provide a range of support services to help you determine what these and other considerations mean for your UAS selection and use. These key considerations include: 

• Operation Over or Near Private Property: This use often entails operation of a UAS in close proximity or over other buildings or property to collect all the visual information needed. Operators must understand state and local regulations prior to operations. Complying with regulations could require enhanced operator skill and/or UAS capabilities.

• Structure Familiarity: This use’s need to examine detailed features of structures and property can require an operator familiar with the specific composition and features for inspection.