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Farm-I-Tude is part of the WakWay Foundation, a non-profit organization with a unique mission to empower the next generation of farmers with the latest technology. Founded on the belief that technology will increase yield, better manage natural resources, decrease expensive inputs for farmers, and help slow the loss of small farms, Farm-I-Tude works tirelessly to provide resources, education, and support to help the next generation bring technology to their farm.

At the core of Farm-I-Tude’s efforts is a commitment to promoting self-sufficiency and environmental stewardship. Through a range of educational programs, workshops, and community outreach initiatives, Farm-I-Tude equips individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to grow their own food, reduce their environmental impact, and make healthier choices for themselves and their families.

Over 2,200 schools across the country have access to the Farm-I-Tude’s educational curriculum which focuses on the agricultural drone program.They’re 2 year ACTE program is creating entrepreneurs who work with farmers to evaluate there crop health.  Their senior year students can intern in the field and fly the larger drones.

VT Insurance Agency has partnered with Farm-I-Tude to provide new pilots a program to fly and understand the process and importance of flying legally. This program has been vetted and approved by the underwriters and will allow new pilot who are waiting on their 44807 and Part 137 to have their own insurance policy and meet state requirements to get their pesticide licenses. Here is a list of requirements before being accepted into the Farm-I-Tude program:

We will require the following information to initiate the process.

1. The submission of your contract must include:
   1. 107 copy front and back or copy of your temp license
   2. Class III Medical
   3. N# copy of registration OR submitted 8050
   4. Insurance with Farmitude as added insured (VT Insurance)
   5. State Chemical License
   6. State Aerial Applicators License (if your state requires it)
   7. U.PASS.Foundation membership
2. Knowledge Test (open book) https://farmitude.wufoo.com/forms/z11xx1pn0vty6r1/
3. Knowledge of drone flight including a screen shot of your Ag Management page showing flight time

 

Give VT Insurance a call today to find out more about Farm-i-tude.

 

Agricultural drones aren’t just a cool gadget – they’re reshaping the future of farming. As drone capabilities expand, so too do the associated risks, driving the need for specialized insurance coverage. Let’s explore the cutting-edge tech and its impact on insurance.

Emerging Drone Technologies

• Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS):• Longer flight ranges mean a higher potential for accidents and third-party liability.
• AI-Powered Drones:• Autonomous decision-making raises complex liability questions.
• Drone Swarms:• Managing multiple drones simultaneously requires coordinated coverage and risk assessment.
• Payload Advancements:• High-value sensors and specialized equipment demand tailored insurance protection.

New Risks, New Coverage Needs

Here’s how these advancements necessitate a change in insurance thinking:

• Increased Liability:• BVLOS flights and drone swarms heighten public safety risks, potentially leading to larger liability claims.
• Data & Privacy Concerns:• In-depth data collected by drones raises questions about usage, storage, and potential cybersecurity breaches.
• Unforeseen Incidents:• AI malfunctions or unexpected swarm behaviors could create unique accident scenarios with complex liability.

Staying Ahead of the Curve

Expect drone insurance to evolve with these trends:

• Dynamic Coverage:• Policies that adapt to specific flights or missions (e.g., higher liability limits for BVLOS operations).
• Cyber-risk Insurance:• Protection against data breaches or hacking of agricultural drone systems.
• Collaboration between Insurers & Tech:• Close partnerships to understand and manage the risks posed by new drone technologies.

VT Insurance: Protecting Your Innovation

At VT Insurance Agency, we stay on the cutting edge of ag drone insurance. Don’t let evolving technology leave you exposed. Contact us for proactive coverage solutions that keep pace with your ambition.

A Bill with Far-Reaching Implications for the Drone Industry

HR 2864, also known as the Countering CCP Drones Act, is a piece of legislation currently under consideration in the United States Congress. This bill aims to address concerns regarding national security and data privacy by restricting the use of drones manufactured by companies tied to the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). While the intention behind the bill is to safeguard national interests, it has sparked heated debate and raised questions about its potential impact on various industries.

Understanding HR 2864

The core provisions of HR 2864 include:

• Prohibition on Federal Purchases: The bill seeks to prohibit federal agencies from purchasing or using drones manufactured by companies with ties to the CCP. This restriction would apply to a wide range of federal entities, including law enforcement, emergency services, research institutions, and critically… aerial applicators.
• Restrictions on Federal Funding: HR 2864 also proposes restrictions on federal funding for state and local entities that use drones from CCP-linked manufacturers. This could have a significant impact on public safety agencies that rely on drones for various operations, such as search and rescue, firefighting, and infrastructure inspection.
• Data Security Concerns: The bill highlights concerns about the potential for data collected by CCP-linked drones to be accessed by the Chinese government. This has raised alarms about the privacy and security of sensitive information.

Why HR 2864 Matters

The debate surrounding HR 2864 revolves around the balance between national security concerns and the practical implications of restricting drone technology.

Proponents of the bill argue that:

• National Security: The bill is necessary to protect sensitive data and critical infrastructure from potential exploitation by the Chinese government.
• Economic Concerns: Promoting domestic drone manufacturing would create jobs and strengthen the U.S. economy.

Opponents of the bill argue that:

• Impact on Entrepreneurship: Agriculture drones are revolutionizing how America feeds the world. Before graduation, agricultural students establish companies and bring this technology back to their farms and communities, enabling precision agriculture and improved crop health.
• Innovation: The bill could hinder innovation in the drone industry and restrict access to cutting-edge technology. This could ultimately limit American farmers’ access to green technology, reduce crop yields, make pesticide application less efficient, and hinder crop health monitoring. This could result in farmers having to resort to less efficient and more expensive methods, impacting their bottom line.
• Costly Transition: Replacing the current drone fleets are not a reasonable option since there are very few agriculture drones currently being manufactured in the U.S., and the ones that are manufactured here are substantially more expensive than their Chinese counterparts. Doing so would render the millions of dollars already invested in the technology useless.

The Road Ahead and Closing Thoughts

As HR 2864 continues to make its way through the legislative process, the debate over its merits and potential consequences will undoubtedly intensify. It’s crucial for stakeholders in the drone industry, public safety agencies, and the general public to stay informed about the bill’s progress and potential impact.

If passed, this bill could be devastating to people who have already invested time and money into starting a drone business. With that being said, there are many hurdles to clear before getting passed. Here is where we are and the next steps before passing into law.

• What is the current status of the Bill: As of June 14th, the HR2864 bill got lumped into the National Defense Authorization Act NDAA FY25 and passed the House of Representatives by a narrow margin of 217 to 199.
• What happens next: First, lobbying efforts are being launched by all major drone distributors, associations (U.PASS), and agencies like VT Insurance across the country to limit the impact on the voting power and what will actually be in the bill. There are efforts to exclude over 55lb drones as they do not pose national security threats by uploading data of our infrastructure. Most over 55lb drones are out in the rural areas where critical information is not as big of a concern.
• Second: It will now have to go to the Democratically-controlled Senate 4-5 months before an election year. The chances of it getting passed this stage are not 0%, but it is less likely than if there were not partisanship at play. Having a Republican bill pass before an election would not be a great look for Democrats who are trying to put their best foot forward before the election.
• Third: If the bill does pass through the Senate, the last stop on its journey before becoming law is to get signed by the current Democrat president, Joe Biden. This could be an issue if he is trying to be bipartisan to show he is playing ball with both sides; but to give another win to the Republicans before the election could come off as weak and give another push for momentum for Republicans going into the election.

In short, this is going to be an uphill battle to get this bill passed in the next few months as it currently stands. There are many factors at play, so we hope this sheds a positive light on the process this still has to go through before becoming a reality.

You can count on VT Insurance, major drone distributors, and U.Pass to advocate removing over 55lb drones from the bill through lobbying efforts; however, we need others who are concerned about the passage of this bill to write their congressmen and other lawmakers to help show support to stop this bill. We need you to tell them how this will hurt you, your families, and your livelihood if this passes into law. You can do so by going to the following links:

 

https://www.upass.foundation/getinvolvednow

 

Take Action

https://www.votervoice.net/iframes/DAA/Campaigns/111611/Respond

 

Whether HR 2864 is ultimately passed or not, it serves as a reminder of the growing importance of drones in various sectors and the complex challenges surrounding their regulation. It’s a conversation that will continue to shape the future of this rapidly evolving technology.

Stay tuned for further updates on HR 2864 and its implications for the drone industry.

Disclaimer: This blog post is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Please consult with relevant professionals for guidance on specific situations.

Think of a pre-flight checklist like a mini insurance policy for each flight. By taking a few minutes for careful checks, you’re not only improving safety but also making a potential insurance claim much smoother. Your insurer is looking for evidence of due diligence, so let’s break down what matters most.

The Essential Checklist:

Adjust this based on your specific drone model and operation, but here are the key areas to cover:

• Drone Condition:•
Propellers: No cracks, chips, or loose fittings.
Frame: No visible damage or structural weakness.
Motors: Spin freely, no unusual noises.
Battery: Securely connected, no swelling or damage.
Sensors/Payload: Cameras or other equipment properly attached.

• Controller and Device:•
Battery: Fully charged.
Antenna: Securely connected.
Control Sticks: Smooth movement.
Mobile Device (if used): App updated, strong signal.

• Weather and Airspace:•
Current Conditions: Check wind speed, visibility, and cloud cover.
Flight Restrictions: No NOTAMs or temporary flight restrictions (TFRs) in your area.
Obstacles: Identify power lines, trees, or other potential hazards.

• Flight Plan:•
Mission Objectives: Double-check what you intend to achieve.
Flight Path: Planned route within safe operating boundaries.
Emergency Procedures: Know what to do in case of lost connection or other issues.

Why Your Insurer Cares

A pre-flight checklist demonstrates to your insurer that:

• You prioritize safety:• This reduces their risk and can result in better rates for you.
• You take responsibility:• Proactive risk management is rewarded and will be looked at more closely as the industry evolves.
• Claims are less likely:• Following a checklist can prevent you from being sidelined and losing valuable time/money during your short season.

Beyond the Basics:

• Document Your Checks:• Log your checklist completion in an app or logbook.
• Know Your Policy:• Review what is and isn’t covered by your insurance.
• Tailor to Your Operations:• Add specific checks relevant to your type of drone or typical flight missions.

VT Insurance: Your Flight Safety Partner

At VT Insurance, we’re committed to helping you minimize risks. Let’s talk about how a pre-flight checklist, combined with the right insurance policy, can keep your agricultural drone operations safe and on budget.

Even the most careful pilots can experience a drone mishap. When it happens, how you handle the aftermath matters – especially when it comes to filing an insurance claim. Your insurance agent is your best friend and biggest advocate in these situations. Always call them first before turning in a claim directly to the insurance company as they can instruct you on the best way to move forward.

Immediate Actions After a Crash:

• Safety First:• Ensure there are no injuries to yourself or others.
• Secure the Scene:• Safely retrieve your drone and prevent further damage. If your drone is caught in electrical wire, call the electric company and do not try to                 retrieve the drone yourself.
• Document Everything:• Take photos and videos of the crash site and the damaged drone. Note the date, time, and location of the incident.
• Gather Witness Information:• If anyone saw the crash, obtain their contact details.

Filing Your Insurance Claim

Contact your insurance provider (VT Insurance Agency!) as soon as possible. Have the following ready:

• Policy Information:• Your policy number and coverage details.
• Incident Report:• A detailed description of what happened, including weather conditions and any potential causes.
• Documentation:• Photos, videos, witness statements, and your pre-flight checklist (if you have one).
• Repair Estimates:• If possible, get quotes for repairing or replacing your drone.

Additional Tips:

• Review Your Policy:• Understand your deductible and any specific reporting requirements.
• Communicate Clearly:• Be open and honest with your insurer.
• Don’t Delay:• Prompt reporting can speed up the claims process.
• Follow Instructions:• Your insurer will guide you through the necessary steps.

Crash Reporting: Proactive Flight Safety

While nobody wants a crash, it’s an opportunity to learn. By analyzing what went wrong, you can take steps to prevent similar incidents in the future.

VT Insurance: Your Support After a Mishap

At VT Insurance Agency, we understand that accidents happen. We’re here to help you navigate the claims process and get you back in the air as quickly as possible. Contact us today for support and guidance after an unfortunate drone incident.

Drone insurance is a must-have for aerial applicators, but premiums can add up. The good news is, your actions directly impact your insurance costs. By prioritizing safety and risk management, you can unlock more affordable protection for your agricultural drone operations.

How Insurers Calculate Premiums

Understanding how insurers think is key to lowering your costs. They look at:

• Experience: Licensed pilots with many flight hours can get more companies interested and offer perks like waiver of 1st in motion deductibles.
• Type of Drone: Larger, more expensive drones usually mean higher premiums.
• Safety Record: A history of accidents or incidents will drive up costs. You will need to check with your agent on how turning in a loss will affect your premiums.
• Flight Operations: Spray operations can very from seeding and fertilizing only to exclusively herbicide work. Herbicide operations will carry higher premiums.
• Acres Flown: This is a newer underwriting criteria but is becoming more important as companies come into the market.

Safety Tips = Savings

Here’s how to demonstrate your commitment to safe drone operations:

• Training & Certification: Get your Part 107 license and consider additional specialized training. Most distributors offer training after purchasing your drone.
• Maintenance Matters: Regularly inspect your drone and make sure there are no systems errors or loose motors.
• Pre-flight Checklists: Establish a routine to verify equipment and conditions before every flight.
• Responsible Flying: Stay within visual line of sight, avoid risky maneuvers, and respect airspace restrictions
• Risk Assessment: Analyze your fields and plan flights to minimize hazards (e.g., power lines). Mapping a field the day before is a good practice.

Bonus: Document Your Safety Practices

Don’t just be safe, prove it! Keep these records, which can be helpful when negotiating with insurers:

• Flight Logs: Maintain detailed records of each flight.
• Maintenance Logs: Document all inspections and repairs.
• Training Certificates: Keep copies of your pilot license and any additional training.

VT Insurance Agency: Partnering for Savings

At VT Insurance, we reward safe operators. We’ll work with you to understand your risk profile and find coverage that’s both comprehensive and cost-effective. Let us help you save money while protecting your ag drone investment.

As a farmer, you’re no stranger to the whims of weather. But when you add drones to the mix, stormy skies become even more worrisome. So, does your drone insurance have your back when severe weather strikes?

Understanding Weather-Related Coverage

Not all drone insurance policies are created equal, especially when it comes to weather damage. Here’s what you need to know:

• Hull Insurance: This covers physical damage to your drone. If your drone or equipment gets caught up in a storm or natural disaster, your hull coverage will kick in and make you whole again.
• Deductibles: Understand your deductible amount for weather-related claims. Companies will differ in how they handle deductibles.

Protecting Your Drone Investment

Beyond just insurance, here’s how to minimize storm-related drone damage:

• Monitor weather forecasts meticulously.
• Avoid flying during inclement conditions.
• Store your drone and equipment securely when not in use.

The VT Insurance Difference

At VT Insurance, we understand the unique challenges of agricultural drone operations. We’ll help you assess the weather-related risks specific to your location and find coverage that protects your investment. Contact us to tailor a policy that keeps you flying, even when the weather turns unpredictable.

FAQs About Weather Coverage

Q: Does my policy automatically cover all weather damage?

A: Not necessarily. Check your policy for specifics on covered perils.

Q: What if the damage is due to my own negligence (e.g., flying in light rain)?

A: Coverage may be limited in scenarios where you knowingly operated in risky conditions.

Q: How do I document weather-related damage for an insurance claim?

A: Take photos/videos of the damaged drone, record the date and time of the weather event, and obtain weather reports if possible.

 

Authored by Vaughn Tolbert

Drones are revolutionizing aerial application. But even with careful planning, things can go wrong. Chemical drift, where your aerial application moves off-target, can have serious consequences for you and your neighbors. Drone insurance, specifically tailored for agricultural spraying, is crucial for mitigating these risks.

Understanding Chemical Drift

Chemical drift can occur due to various factors:

• Wind: Even a slight breeze can carry spray droplets far away.
• Temperature Inversions: Weather conditions can trap chemicals near the ground, leading to drift.
• Equipment Malfunction: Faulty nozzles or incorrect calibration can lead to uneven application.
• Pilot Error: Inexperience or incorrect procedures can cause drift.

The Cost of a Drift Incident

Drift lawsuits can be devastating. Here’s what you might face:

• Crop Damage: Neighboring farmers could sue for lost yield or reduced crop value.
• Environmental Harm: Drift could contaminate waterways or harm wildlife.
• Health Concerns: Exposure to chemicals can lead to health claims.
• Legal fees: Defending yourself in court is expensive, even if you win.

Drone Insurance: Your Financial Shield

Liability insurance designed for agricultural spraying operations helps protect you by:

• Covering Neighbor’s Losses: Policies can cover the cost of damage to neighboring crops caused by drift.
• Legal Defense: Insurance can help pay for attorneys if you’re facing a lawsuit.
• Environmental Liability: Some policies offer coverage for cleanup costs or fines due to environmental damage.

Minimizing Drift Risks

Prevention is always better than a lawsuit. Follow these tips to reduce drift:

• Check the weather: Avoid spraying during high winds or temperature inversions.
• Choose the right chemicals: Opt for less volatile products when possible.
• Equipment calibration: Ensure nozzles are working correctly and application rates are accurate.
• Follow label instructions: Always read and adhere to the pesticide label for safe application guidelines.

Talk to the Experts: VT Insurance Agency

Don’t let pesticide drift jeopardize your farm’s future. VT Insurance specializes in drone insurance for agricultural spraying. We’ll help you assess your risks and find a policy that gives you the coverage and peace of mind you need.

 

Authored by Vaughn Tolbert

Agricultural drones are amazing tools, but they also come with potential risks. That’s why specialized drone insurance is a must for any farmer using this technology. Two of the most important coverage types are hull insurance and liability insurance. Let’s break down the differences and why you likely need both.

Hull Insurance: Protecting Your Investment

Think of hull insurance as similar to the collision or comprehensive coverage on your car. It covers the physical drone itself in these scenarios:

• Crashes: Damage from accidents or pilot error.
• Weather events: Damage from hail, lightning, wind, etc.
• Theft or vandalism: Protection if your drone is stolen.
• Malfunctions: Sometimes covers electrical or mechanical failures.

Liability Insurance: Protecting Others (and Yourself)

Liability insurance is what protects you financially if your drone causes damage to another person’s property or if someone is injured during your drone operations. This might include:

• Property damage: If your drone crashes into a neighbor’s barn.
• Bodily injury: If your drone injures a farmworker or bystander.
• Pesticide drift: Liability if the chemicals you’re spraying damage neighboring crops.

Why You Need Both

Imagine a scenario where your drone malfunctions and crashes into a neighbor’s tractor. Here’s how both types of coverage help:

• Hull Insurance: Pays to repair or replace your damaged drone.
• Liability Insurance: Covers the cost of fixing the neighbor’s tractor and any medical bills if they’re hurt.

Choosing the Right Coverage

Talk to the experts at VT Insurance Agency! We can help you understand policy details and choose limits that fit your specific agricultural operations and risk tolerance.

Don’t Take a Chance – Get Protected!

Drone insurance is an investment in the future of your farm. Contact VT Insurance today for a personalized quote!

 

Authored by Vaughn Tolbert

As a farmer or custom applicator using drones, you’re already keeping up with a lot – crop cycles, market trends, and ever-changing technology. Adding FAA regulations to the mix can feel overwhelming. But staying compliant isn’t just about avoiding fines; it’s about protecting your licenses and the ability to use this equipment. That’s where drone insurance comes in.

How FAA Violations Can Hurt Your Wallet

The FAA takes drone safety seriously. Here’s how violating regulations could hit you financially:

• Fines and penalties: Violations can carry hefty fines.
• Loss of license: Repeated violations could lead to losing your drone pilot license.
• Lawsuits: If a rule violation causes an accident, you could face major legal costs.
• Reputational damage: Being known as a reckless operator could hurt your business.

Drone Insurance: Your Safety Net

While drone insurance won’t prevent you from making mistakes, it can provide financial protection in several ways:

• Defense Costs: Insurance may cover legal fees if you need to defend yourself against an FAA enforcement action.
• Liability Protection: If an accident occurs due to a rules violation, liability insurance can help protect you from lawsuits.

Staying Compliant: Best Practices

Of course, the best way to protect yourself is to stay up-to-date on FAA regulations. Here’s what you need to do:

• Obtain your Part 107 license: You will need this in order to legally fly drones and is the first step in getting your Part 137.
• Register your drone: All drones over 55 lbs must be registered with N#’s.
• Get your exemptions: You will need to submit for your 44807 in order to fly heavier drones.
• Receiving your Part 137 from the FAA: This is the last piece of the puzzle to legally do aerial application.
• Understand Airspace Restrictions: Know where you can and can’t fly.
• Maintain Flight Logs: Record flight details to show compliance after every flight.

VT Insurance Agency: Your Partner in Compliance

Navigating the world of drone insurance and FAA regulations can be complex. Contact VT Insurance Agency for expert guidance. We’ll help you find the right coverage to stay safe, compliant, and financially secure while using drone technology on your farm.

 

Authored by Vaughn Tolbert