MOUNT OLIVE, NC – The University of Mount Olive has been selected as one of only 15 universities across the United States to participate in the Agri Spray Drones Academic Partner Initiative, securing an advanced EAVision J150 agricultural spray drone to enhance student learning, faculty research, and agricultural outreach efforts.
The initiative, a partnership between Agri Spray Drones, one of the nation’s largest agricultural spray drone distributors, and EAVision, provides participating institutions with cutting-edge drone technology designed to advance research and education in precision agriculture.
“We’re extremely appreciative of Agri Spray Drones and EAVision for creating this opportunity and inviting us to participate,” said Jesse Gilsinger, University of Mount Olive Precision Agriculture Program Coordinator. “Being selected as one of only 15 universities nationwide is a testament to the University of Mount Olive’s commitment to incorporating cutting-edge technology into our teaching, research, and outreach efforts.”
The EAVision J150 spray drone features a 20-gallon tank, can cover more than 60 acres per hour, and utilizes advanced LiDAR technology to detect and avoid obstacles such as trees, poles, and power lines. Its capabilities position UMO at the forefront of modern agricultural innovation while providing hands-on opportunities for students preparing for careers in an increasingly technology-driven industry.
“This recognition highlights UMO’s strong commitment to agriculture and to helping farmers adopt new technologies that improve efficiency and profitability,” Gilsinger said. “We’re excited to be leaders in precision agriculture, and this partnership will benefit both our students and our regional farming community.”
UMO’s Precision Agriculture program will integrate the drone directly into coursework, including Precision Ag Mechanics and advanced maintenance and troubleshooting courses. Students will gain practical experience in drone operation, safety, maintenance, and FAA certification preparation.
The drone will also create valuable research opportunities beginning this summer, with projects focused on cucumber downy mildew control and soybean fungicide and insecticide applications. These studies are expected to generate critical data for farmers across the southeastern United States, comparing spray drone effectiveness to traditional ground application systems.
“Spray drones give farmers another valuable tool,” Gilsinger explained. “They can operate in wet field conditions, avoid crop damage caused by ground equipment, and are generally safer and easier to learn than traditional manned aircraft.”
In addition to research, the drone will support outreach initiatives such as farmer field days, workforce development programs, and UMO’s annual FFA Precision Agriculture Contest, expanding agricultural education opportunities for high school students and producers throughout eastern North Carolina.
According to Gilsinger, this gift further strengthens the House of Raeford Farms School of Agriculture and Biological Sciences’ position as a leader in preparing the next generation of agricultural professionals. “Technology like this represents the future of agriculture,” Gilsinger said. “The message to prospective students is clear – UMO is committed to staying on the cutting edge.”
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