In a groundbreaking development for Flanders, Belgium, a drone sowed winter rye for the first time this year, marking a significant advancement in agricultural technology. This innovative demonstration was made possible through a collaboration with Agriflight, the pioneering company in Flanders to receive official permission for seeding and fertilizing using drones. The event took place early July at the Agro-ecology Test Platform in Hansbeke during their annual demo day, showcasing the potential of drone technology in agriculture.
Jonathan Van Beek, a researcher at the Belgian institute ILVO (Institute for Agricultural and Fisheries Research), articulated the benefits of this novel approach: “By seeding with a drone, we reduce the pressure on the soil and decrease the period that fields remain fallow. This results in weed suppression and early germination, without disturbing the soil.” The seeding drone, a modified spraying drone from DJI, was equipped with a specially designed seeding module. This module features a rotating disk capable of dispersing seeds as programmed, ensuring even distribution across the field.
The demonstration, attended by industry experts including representatives from Dronewatch magazine, highlighted how the drone could effectively sow winter rye. Van Beek elaborated on the process, explaining that the drone’s ability to drop seeds among existing crops allows for seamless integration with ongoing agricultural activities. “When this crop is harvested, the new seeds are already germinating, which ensures almost constant ground coverage. This reduces the growth of weeds and thereby also the need for herbicides. Additionally, the quality of the soil improves due to the constant green cover,” Van Beek noted.
One of the most significant advantages of using seeding drones is the reduction in soil compaction. Traditional heavy machinery can burden the soil, especially on poorly maintained fields. In contrast, drones offer a lightweight alternative that minimizes soil disruption, promoting healthier soil ecosystems. This aspect is particularly beneficial in sustainable farming practices, where maintaining soil integrity is paramount.
However, despite the clear benefits, the adoption of seeding drones faces significant regulatory hurdles. The lack of a comprehensive legal framework for the use of seeding drones remains a substantial barrier. Van Beek pointed out that while licenses are being issued to drone pilots and potentially to farmers, the legislation has not yet caught up with this technological innovation. “Licenses are being issued to drone pilots, possibly to farmers as well, but the legislation has not yet been adjusted to this innovation,” he said.
Looking ahead, ILVO does not anticipate that seeding drones will supplant all traditional agricultural methods. Instead, they see them as a complementary tool for specific applications. Van Beek emphasized the need for legislative adjustments to fully integrate the use of seeding drones into the agricultural sector. “We only want to demonstrate that seeding drones can be very useful for specific applications. However, for broader adoption, it is necessary for legislation to be adjusted to fully integrate the use of seeding drones into the agricultural sector,” he explained.
The demonstration in Hansbeke represents a significant step forward in the integration of drone technology in agriculture. As the industry evolves, the potential for drones to contribute to sustainable farming practices becomes increasingly apparent. The collaboration between Agriflight and ILVO exemplifies the innovative spirit driving agricultural advancements in Flanders, paving the way for more efficient and environmentally friendly farming techniques.