This week the U.S. Department of Transportation announced that recreational users of unmanned aerial systems or drones need to register those systems with the federal government. NCGA leaders say drones make farms safer, more efficient and environmentally friendly. South Dakota Corn Growers Executive Director Lisa Richardson says producers are utilizing the new technology and registering the units is just part of the on-going regulatory process.

Richardson says drones are a great tool for farmers for scouting crops and early detection of diseases and pest infestations.

She says Universities have also been working with the unmanned aerial systems to help put more of that technology in farmer’s hands.

The Association of Unmanned Aerial Systems International estimates that agriculture will account for nearly 80 percent of all commercial UAS use.