High-resolution orthomosaic maps, NDVI vegetation indexes, and prescription maps.
Aerial mapping produces high-resolution orthomosaic images stitched from hundreds of overlapping aerial photos. Operators generate NDVI vegetation index maps showing crop vigor variation, multispectral analysis for nutrient and chlorophyll content, elevation models revealing drainage patterns, and prescription maps that feed variable-rate application equipment. Mapping flights deliver data products in GeoTIFF, KML, and shapefile formats for integration with precision ag platforms.
LSU Extension drone research & producer education – Baton Rouge
The LSU AgCenter Precision Agriculture program conducts applied drone research and farmer training across Louisiana. Extension agents and researchers evaluate drone-applied fungicides on rice and soybeans, run UAV mapping demonstrations, and provide county-level workshops to help producers integrate drone technology into their operations.
AR · third-gen aerial applicators, Part 137 filing service & training
Third-generation aerial applicators based in Arkansas and the Southeast US, founded 2019. Provides advanced aerial analytics, precision ag consulting, training, and a done-for-you FAA Part 137 exemption filing service for drone operators. Also offers multispectral mapping, prescription file creation, and drone sales.
A standard mapping flight produces an orthomosaic (georeferenced aerial image), NDVI vegetation index map, elevation model, and field boundary files. Advanced flights add multispectral analysis and prescription maps for variable-rate application equipment.
Drones equipped with RTK/PPK GPS achieve 1 to 3 cm horizontal accuracy and 2 to 5 cm vertical accuracy, sufficient for precision ag applications and field documentation. Standard mapping without RTK achieves 3 to 10 cm accuracy.
There are 2 operators offering aerial mapping drone services in Louisiana: LSU AgCenter Precision Agriculture, Southern Drone Ops.