University Presentation Showcase: Undergraduate Division
EVALUATING AFFORDABLE DRONE TECHNOLOGY FOR YIELD ESTIMATION
Presenter Hometown
Richmond
Major
Agriculture
Department
Agriculture
Degree
Undergraduate
Mentor
Dr. Mike McDermott
Mentor Department
Agriculture
Recommended Citation
Collins, Brittany, "EVALUATING AFFORDABLE DRONE TECHNOLOGY FOR YIELD ESTIMATION" (2025). University Presentation Showcase Event. 36.
https://encompass.eku.edu/swps/2025/undergraduate/36
Abstract
The adoption of precision agriculture technologies has historically been limited by cost barriers, particularly for small-scale farms. This study evaluates the effectiveness of low-cost drone technology for pumpkin yield estimation in small-scale agriculture, addressing a critical need for affordable precision agriculture solutions. Using a DJI Mini 2 SE drone (<$1000), we analyzed five random plots within a 1.23-acre pumpkin field at Eastern Kentucky University's Meadowbrook Farm, developing a methodology for aerial yield estimation. The study employed a flight approach that combined an overview with detailed imagery and ground-truth validation. Results demonstrated 94% accuracy in pumpkin counting and size classification while reducing estimation time by 66% compared to traditional methods. Cost-benefit analysis revealed potential recovery of investment within 1-2 growing seasons for individual farms, with additional benefits through cooperative ownership models. This research provides empirical evidence that affordable drone technology can effectively support small-scale agriculture operations, offering a practical solution for yield estimation while improving operational efficiency.
Presentation format
Poster
EVALUATING AFFORDABLE DRONE TECHNOLOGY FOR YIELD ESTIMATION
The adoption of precision agriculture technologies has historically been limited by cost barriers, particularly for small-scale farms. This study evaluates the effectiveness of low-cost drone technology for pumpkin yield estimation in small-scale agriculture, addressing a critical need for affordable precision agriculture solutions. Using a DJI Mini 2 SE drone (<$1000), we analyzed five random plots within a 1.23-acre pumpkin field at Eastern Kentucky University's Meadowbrook Farm, developing a methodology for aerial yield estimation. The study employed a flight approach that combined an overview with detailed imagery and ground-truth validation. Results demonstrated 94% accuracy in pumpkin counting and size classification while reducing estimation time by 66% compared to traditional methods. Cost-benefit analysis revealed potential recovery of investment within 1-2 growing seasons for individual farms, with additional benefits through cooperative ownership models. This research provides empirical evidence that affordable drone technology can effectively support small-scale agriculture operations, offering a practical solution for yield estimation while improving operational efficiency.
