The American Farm Bureau and other farm groups are backing drone legislation introduced in the U.S. Senate. The Drone Act would establish a public nomination process and give agriculture representation on the Drone Advisory Committee to the FAA. It would also ensure transparency. South Dakota Farm Bureau President Scott VanderWal says having agriculture represented on the Drone Advisory Committee is important.

VanderWal says the regulations also need to be workable to help farmers and ranchers use the technology.

He says drones can help producers control pests, and apply herbicides in an environmentally responsible way.

The Drone Act was introduced by Senate Ag Committee Chair Pat Roberts and South Dakota Senator John Thune.