Louisiana Agriculture Officials Seek Drone Rule Changes

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Louisiana agricultural officials have asked the federal government to loosen restrictions on the use of pilotless aerial vehicles.

The Advocate reported the Federal Aviation Administration is modifying drone regulations and is expected to release proposed rules in November.

LSU AgCenter associate vice chancellor Rogers Leonard said Louisiana farmers have embraced the new technology.

For example, farmers can use the camera-equipped drones to check irrigation water flow in fields more quickly than doing so on foot or by tractor or truck.

Leonard said current FAA rules make this illegal, even if the farmer owns the fields over which the drone is flying.

The rules are designed for hobbyists and commercial aircraft. Leonard said they have slowed research in drone use for agriculture and are preventing farmers from making crop production more efficient.

A 17-member Louisiana study group’s recommendations to the FAA include allowing states to develop regulations that exceed FAA’s general operation and safety guidelines.

Leonard said the group believes guidelines for the agricultural use of drones can be developed that protect privacy and ensure safety. He said those guidelines should be tailored for farmers and be different from those for hobbyist and commercial use.