2025 MSU Spring Spray Drone Fly-In

April 29, 2025
Doors open at 8 a.m. and presentations begin at 9 a.m.

Michigan State University Saginaw Valley Research and Extension Center
3775 S. Reese Road, Frankenmuth, MI  38734

Back for its second year, the 2025 MSU Spring Spray Drone Fly-in is an all-day educational event designed for both current and aspiring spray drone operators. This event combines expert-led discussions with hands-on demonstrations, providing valuable insights into optimizing drone-based chemical applications.

What to Expect:

  1. Morning Education Sessions: Learn from industry experts about best practices, regulations, and the latest research on spray drone applications in agriculture and related industries. Speakers will include:
    • Mark Ledebuhr (Application Insight LLC) – Fundamentals of chemical applications from drones
    • Mike Reinke (MSU Extension) – Updates on MSU spray drone research
    • Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD)– Current state regulations for aerial applicators
    • Kirk Babcock (On Point Applications Group) and Bryan Hammis (Flying Acres LLC) – Current federal regulations and national and local industry support opportunities for aerial applicators
  2. Afternoon Demonstrations & Hands-On Testing:
    • Watch real-time swath testing and verification demonstrations
    • Certified drone pilots can bring their own spray drones to test swath settings using advanced collection technologies

The Michigan Spray Drone Spring Fly-in will be held at the Michigan State University Saginaw Valley Research and Extension Center (3775 S. Reese Road Frankenmuth, MI 48734). Doors open at Lunch will be provided. Cost to attend is $50 per person. 

 

Anyone wishing to test their own drone settings will be required to provide proof of certifications prior to the event (Part 107 license and 44807 exemption if over 55lb). Michigan RUP credits have been applied for and will include aerial credits. 


If you have any questions, reach out to Mike Reinke, reinkem3@msu.edu or 573.239.0808. 

Registration for 2025 MSU Spring Spray Drone Fly-In is open.

Registration closes at 11:59 p.m. ET on April 25, 2025.

Accommodations

Michigan State University is committed to providing equal opportunity for participation in all programs, services and activities. Accommodations for persons with disabilities may be requested by contacting the event contact two weeks prior to the start of the event. Requests received after this date will be honored whenever possible.

Contact Information

For information, contact Mike Reinke at reinkem3@msu.edu or 573-239-0808.