Meet Taylor Newsome of SkyView Ag Services
In Moultrie, Georgia, drone technology is reshaping agriculture, and one business owner is leading the charge. Taylor Newsome, founder of SkyView Ag Services, utilizes drones for aerial applications, including pesticide and fertilizer spraying, aquatic management, and crop monitoring. While his DJI Agras T40 is designed primarily for agriculture, it’s versatile enough for mapping and other aerial imagery tasks.
Newsome’s journey into agricultural drone work began with his lifelong interest in farming. After working on a farm in college and later in a non-agricultural job, he discovered spray drones and realized there was a market gap in South Georgia. Three years later, SkyView Ag Services has become a trusted provider for local farmers.
Day-to-Day Operations in Agriculture Drone Services
The agricultural drone calendar follows the growing seasons. In early spring, SkyView Ag Services focuses on pond and aquatic management. As summer approaches, operations shift to cotton and peanut spraying, followed by defoliation and weed control before harvest.
While most jobs revolve around spraying and spreading applications, Newsome also utilizes DJI’s Smart Farm software for precision mapping. This allows him to bill customers only for the acreage treated, improving accuracy and customer satisfaction.
Certifications and Legal Requirements for Drone Operators
To operate legally, Newsome holds a Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate from the FAA, renewed every two years. He also maintains specialized authorizations:
- Part 44807 Exemption – Allows operation of drones over 55 lbs.
- Part 137 Certificate – Permits agricultural application operations.
He stresses that aspiring operators must meet all FAA requirements, carry proper insurance, and avoid “cowboy” practices that risk safety and compliance.
The Future of Agricultural Drone Technology
Drone technology in agriculture is evolving rapidly. Since the T40’s release of a 40-liter (10+ gallon) tank, newer models like the T100 have emerged, offering greater capacity and performance. Improvements in battery life, payload capacity, and charging efficiency are expected to further enhance productivity.
Newsome believes are “here to stay” in agriculture, with the technology becoming larger, more efficient, and more integral to farming operations in the years to come.
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