FAQs
CUSTOM CHEMICAL AND PESTICIDE APPLICATION
FAQs
Q1: What's the minimum acreage you'll service?
A: We work with operations of various sizes. Contact us with your specific acreage, and we'll let you know how we can help. For smaller fields, drone application often makes more economic sense than mobilizing ground equipment.
Q2: Do I need to provide the chemicals, or do you supply them?
A: Either way works. We sell chemicals and can include products in your application quote, or we can apply products you've already purchased. Many customers find it simpler to buy and apply through us so everything is coordinated.
Q3: How far in advance should I schedule application services?
A: During peak season, one to two weeks ahead is ideal. For urgent situations like sudden pest outbreaks, call us immediately. We'll do our best to fit you in.
Q4: What crops do you work with?
A: We primarily serve corn and soybean operations, though we work with other crops grown in our region. Contact us to discuss your specific crop and application needs.
Q5: Do you apply at night or in early morning hours?
A: Yes, when conditions require it. Some applications work best during cooler temperatures or calmer winds. We schedule based on what gives you the best results, not just what's convenient for us.
Q6: What documentation do you provide after application?
A: We provide records including products applied, rates, field locations, weather conditions, and timing. These records support your crop management documentation and any regulatory requirements.
Q7: How do you decide between ground rig and drone application?
A: It depends on field conditions, crop stage, and what you're applying. Ground rigs work well for most pre-emergent and early-season applications. Drones excel for late-season fungicides, wet field conditions, and spot treatments. We'll recommend the best option for your situation.
Q8: What happens if weather delays my scheduled application?
A: We monitor forecasts closely and communicate proactively about scheduling changes. If weather pushes back your application, we'll reschedule as soon as conditions allow and keep you informed throughout.
AGRICULTURE DRONE SERVICES FAQs
Q1: What's the biggest field you can cover in a day?
A: It really depends on the shape and size of the field, as well as the product we're applying. Typically, we can handle 800-1,000 acres a day. If you're at a pinch and need something fast, just give us a shout, and we'll give you a realistic timeline.
Q2: How does your pricing stack up against airplane application?
A: Drone application normally costs more per acre than an airplane, but less than ground rigs in many cases. It's really the other benefits that make it a winner, like reduced crop damage, better targeting, and the fact we can get to those weird little fields that other methods can't.
Q3: Can you fly in windy conditions?
A: We stick to the label requirements for wind speed limits, usually under 10 mph for most products. And because we're usually flying low down, our application is actually safer in terms of drift. If we can't fly, we won't and just reschedule instead.
Q4: What size fields work best for drone application?
A: We do well with fields from 20 acres up to several hundred acres. It's actually where other methods get really pricey that drones shine, especially on those small or funny-shaped fields.
Q5: Do you give us some paperwork to back it all up?
A: Yep. We document every application, including the product, rate, a map of what we did, weather conditions, and when. That helps out with your crop management records and any compliance hoops you might need to jump through.
Q6: How far ahead should we schedule?
A: During peak fungicide season (June to August) it's best to book one to two weeks in advance when you can. But if you need something done super fast, just give us a shout and we'll do our best to fit it in.
Q7: Which crops do you work with?
A: Corn and soybeans are our bread and butter, but we work on just about all crops. Just give us a yell with what you need help with, and we'll see what we can do.
Q8: Are there any products you can't apply?
A: We can apply just about any product that's labeled for drone use - fungicides, insecticides, herbicides and foliar nutrients are all our friends. There might be some products that have a few special requirements, but we'll go over all that with you before we do any scheduling.
SMARTER APPLICATION. STRONGER YIELDS.
DRONE SALES AND SERVICE FAQs
Q1: Do you ship drones outside Nebraska?
A: Yes. We sell DJI drones to customers across the entire country. Training can be conducted remotely via video for distant customers, though we recommend in-person training when possible. Ongoing support is available by phone regardless of your location.
Q2: Do I need a license to operate an agricultural drone commercially?
A: Yes. At minimum, you need FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot certification to operate any drone commercially, including agricultural applications. Some states have additional requirements. We'll walk you through the licensing process when you purchase from us.
Q3: How long does it take to learn to fly an agricultural drone?
A: Most operators become comfortable with basic flight operations within a few training sessions. Mastering mission planning, advanced features, and efficient field workflows takes longer, typically a few weeks of regular practice. We provide training that gets you productive quickly, with ongoing support as you build experience.
Q4: What's included when I buy a drone from Pleasant Valley Ag Services?
A: Every purchase includes the drone and standard accessories, initial configuration, and basic training. Additional training, extended warranties, and accessories are available. We'll provide a complete quote with everything itemized so you know exactly what you're getting.
Q5: Can you service drones purchased elsewhere?
A: Yes. We service DJI drones regardless of where they were originally purchased. Bring it in or ship it to us, and we'll diagnose the issue and provide a repair estimate.
Q6: How much does an agricultural drone cost?
A: Pricing varies significantly by model. The compact DJI Agras T25 costs less than the large-scale T100. Contact us with your specific needs, and we'll provide accurate pricing for the models that fit your operation.
Q7: What kind of warranty comes with DJI drones?
A: DJI provides manufacturer warranties on their products, and extended protection plans are available. We'll explain warranty coverage and options during your consultation so you can make an informed decision.
Q8: How often do agricultural drones need maintenance?
A: Frequency depends on usage intensity. During heavy spray seasons, we recommend basic checks before each flight day and more thorough inspections every 50-100 flight hours. We'll train you on routine maintenance and handle anything beyond basic upkeep.
Q9: What if my drone needs repairs during the busy season?
A: We understand that downtime costs money when timing is critical. Our service department prioritizes quick turnaround for agricultural customers, and we stock common replacement parts for the drone models we sell. For major repairs, we'll give you realistic timelines upfront.
Q10: Do you offer financing?
A: Financing options may be available depending on the purchase. Contact us to discuss your situation, and we'll let you know what's possible.