Using Drones to Detect and Control Gorse Infestations Across Large Landscapes
                     Using Drones to Detect and Control Gorse Infestations Across L
arge Landscapes
https://www.agridronespecialists.co.nz/weed-spraying/
Drones have improved the management and protection of large 
landscapes, especially when it comes to invasive species like gorse. 
Traditionally, recognizing and treating gorse infestations over 
expansive areas has been challenging, labor-intensive, and time-
consuming.
With advanced drone technology, land managers can detect and 
address these issues at an unprecedented speed and precision. So, 
how can drones identify and treat gorse infestations across large 
tracts of land?
High-Resolution Imaging and Sensors
One significant advantage that drones bring to gorse control is their 
ability to survey and map dense and difficult terrain. They are 
equipped with high-resolution cameras, multispectral, and thermal 
sensors.
So, drones can identify patches of gorse based on distinctive visual 
and spectral signatures. Manual ground surveys may take weeks or 
months to complete over extensive properties. But drones can scan 
hundreds of hectares in a matter of hours.
During flight, drones collect detailed imagery and data, which are 
processed using AI and machine learning algorithms. They can 
pinpoint specific locations of gorse infestations, their density, and 
growth patterns.
This advanced technology enables near real-time mapping of 
invasive plants in challenging landscapes like steep hills, wetlands, 
and dense forests. These areas are traditionally inaccessible by foot 
or ground vehicles.
Precision Drone Gorse Spraying Services
Upon the detection of gorse patches, drone spraying systems 
respond as soon as possible. Drones are fitted with spraying 
equipment, which carries herbicides in tanks typically with a capacity 
of around 40 liters. With emission rates around 24 liters per minute, 
these drones can cover large areas much faster. Their agility allows 
them to navigate thick gorse bushes and penetrate hard-to-reach 
spots. They ensure thorough herbicide application right to the target 
foliage.
The precision-guided spraying systems use the RTK GPS accuracy to 
apply herbicides exactly wherever needed and reduce overspray and 
chemical waste. Drones complete treatment tasks quickly with 
significantly less labor effort. What once took days can now be done 
within hours, which allows for more frequent monitoring and rapid 
treatment cycles. These systems can keep invasions in check before 
they escalate.
Faster Control
Drones can quickly identify and treat gorse infestations that can 
prevent the invasive plant from spreading and disrupting native 
ecosystems and farmland productivity. Early intervention can reduce 
the extent of herbicide use and associated environmental risks like 
runoff and collateral damage. Economically, gorse drone spraying 
services can lower labor time, herbicide volume, and machinery use 
which results in substantial cost savings. 
Final Conclusion
Modern drone technology can advance the timeline of gorse weed 
management from a prolonged battle into a fast and highly efficient 
operation. In Nelson and similar regions, drones can help you 
identify and map extensive gorse infestations within hours and 
complete targeted herbicide treatments rapidly and accurately. This 
speed can enhance environmental sustainability and encourage land 
managers to keep ahead of invasive species growth cycles, while 
maintaining healthy and productive land year-round. Whether 
seeking help from weed spraying services or gorse spraying drone 
services in Nelson, please contact Agri Drone Specialists at 
027 323 8155.
Agri Drone Specialists
74 Montreal Road
Nelson, New Zealand
Phone: 027 323 8155
Email: [email protected]
https://www.agridronespecialists.co.nz/