Drones in Agriculture

Precision farming includes using technology to see and collect data on soil, crop growth and crop production is a potential way to increase crop yields. This microcredential explores the types of drones used in agricultural applications and discusses topics such as drone imaging to assist field analysis. There are eight microcredentials within the Precision Farming series and they can be taken in any order or on their own.

Flexibility in our offerings and innovation in our approach is considered essential to demonstrate our continued commitment to student success. The ideal learner will be looking to adopt sustainable farming practices and already be employed in the farming industry, either as an employee or owner.  It is expected that the learner will have at least basic digital skills. The learners will complete the modules at their own pace. Therefore, the microcredential will be developed fully online.

Prior Learning

• It is recommended, but not necessary, to complete Farming Using Smart Technology before enrolling.

Learning Outcomes

• Identify types of drones used in agricultural applications.
• Explore topics such as using drone imaging (LIDAR, photographic, etc.) to assist in field analysis.
• Examine AI techniques (week propagation, crop progress, water location issues, etc.)

Assessment

• The learner must achieve a minimum score of 80% on each of the 3 quizzes.

Precision farming practices using the latest techniques and technologies address various aspects of carbon footprint and clean technologies. An understanding of how smart equipment can assist with the reduction of greenhouse gases, not only regarding fertilizer application but also pesticide use and seeding practices, is vital. Technology and data collection assists with sustainable farming decision making:

• Canada’s Climate Action Plan
• Responsible consumption and production- Ensure sustainable consumption and production patterns
• Life and Land – Protect, restore, and promote sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems
• Advancing innovation – Agriculture

Innovative solutions, including clean technologies, are required to reduce emissions from agriculture. Promising new technologies are being developed to reduce emissions from livestock and crop production, including from the use of precision farming and “smart” fertilizers, which time the release to match plant needs, and from feed innovations that reduce methane production in cattle. Actions pertaining to the agriculture sector will be developed collaboratively through Canada’s Next Agriculture Policy Framework.

• Equipment Data and Analytics
• Farming Using Smart Technology
• IOT Data and Storage
• IOT AgriTech Essentials
• Machine Learning and Agriculture
• Sensors for Agriculture
• What-If Questions and Data