Thanks to a Tobacco Region Revitalization Commission (TRRC) grant, Institute scientists are showing Southern VA growers how to make farming more profitable by reducing inputs (fertilizers, pesticides, and water) and increasing overall crop health and yields.

Scientists use the AgBot, a drone with thermal and multispectral cameras, to analyze data from 20 regional growers’ crops. Crops include tobacco, grapes (various varieties), soybeans, strawberries, and blueberries. Localities participating in the research include the counties of Patrick, Pittsylvania, Halifax, Franklin, and Mecklenburg and Danville.