Tulare World Ag Expo, California, Feb 10-13, 2025
It’s been three years since I’ve attended the Tulare World Agriculture Expo and I was quickly reminded that there would be a lot of walking over the course of the three day event.
While I was unsuccessful in my attempt to obtain a media pass, I did secure two VIP passes–which made going through security easier–and I had the support of the media pavilion if needed.
I knew Briana Layfield and her spray drone company, Ag-Bee, would be showcasing one of their latest XAG drones, but I was also curious to see what other expo booths would have drones on display. I was surprised to see that multiple spray drone retailers from around the US were present. It was great to see the Pelican 2 from Pyka–a $550,000, 300L capacity-fixed wing spray drone–and learn about their 30-drone order for Brazil.
I had the opportunity to meet Taylor Moreland, from Agri Spray, who has been a guest on my ag drone podcast, Green Farm 4 All; I have so much respect for Taylor and his professionalism. I love his tagline, “Empowering Rural America,” because it’s based on a real story–which I hope will resonate with the ag drone industry. Taylor shows the younger generation that technology can be a catalyst for food security and sustainability.
Surely there was more to see than drones. I came across my favorite company, which raises bumblebees for pollination services. What does this have to do with drones? Well, as I was discussing drone use with them, they stated that they were looking for a drone pilot to film a lacewing insect release in Paso Robles, California. And of course, I thought, “Pick me!” But, unfortunately this project didn’t receive the necessary funding. On the bright side, I made a new friend and secured another guest for my podcast. Not to mention, I learned quite a bit about bumblebees.
Ag-Bee spray drone paint job
I was fortunate enough to film Nate, the primary Ag-Bee drone pilot, as he flew their new XAG P150 to paint a greenhouse. Depending on the percentage of shade needed, Nate had to calculate the number of gallons and drone speed to achieve his goals.
I was sent coordinates, but it took me 30 minutes and several dead-end scenarios to arrive. I couldn’t help but think, “I guess I shouldn’t be seeing chains blocking the street,” and “I don’t think I should be in the cul-de-sac with a wagging tail golden retriever and no greenhouse in sight.” Just classic, Caroline.
I was rapidly reminded that photography techniques play a crucial role in acquiring media. Some of the challenges I faced this time were trying to capture media in the middle of a sunny day, being surrounded by neighbors, flying over white material, and limited space to maneuver. Add in the limitations of these large drones–which have limited battery life preventing me from conducting long flights–well, challenge accepted. I captured quite a bit of media and was able to put together a video post-flight. Not to mention, this is the first time in years that I’ve had to put an ND filter on my Mavic 3 Cine.
I cannot thank the Ag-Bee team enough for accepting me with open arms and allowing me to fly my drone as close as I did. Speaking of being close, Nate shared with me that previously he had a smaller drone fly in-place, waiting for the ag drone to come closer– thinking he had the shot. When in actuality, the ag drone kept going and hit the little drone! Big oops!
Grants & Networking
A noted flop this month was the grant for the UCCE–which never passed due to several factors. It would have been equivalent to two months of work for my drone services. My contact did let me know she is looking at several other grants as she is adamant about making this work. This setback is teaching me to never give up and put multiple feelers out there.
Over the last few months, I have driven an hour to the San Diego Farm Bureau for several events: some of which were for my dragon fruit growing, such as the Ag Symposium and the safety food training.
Another networking event for me was the California Agritourism Summit, where we toured several facilities learning about their success and sustainability. Day two of the summit included a series of panel talks and workshops. I met some great people who have a need for an experienced drone pilot. I got to know a couple who make ag documentaries and it was amusing when the filmmaker said he always hoped his wife wouldn’t tell him to “get the drone out” (he had a DJI Phantom) with a sense of dread.
Podcasts
I finally started all three podcasts and I was surprised that the episode covering the role of drones in agriculture got so many views and shares. And the one that is dearest to my heart is the Green Farm 4 All podcast that features trailblazing women–like Desi Ekstein. Look for Green Farm 4 All on Spotify!
Palm Springs International Drone Film Festival
This first-year festival occurred in Palm Springs, California, this past March and I participated as an attendee and volunteer. For those in attendance, the opening ceremony was quite a drone spectacle and also celebrated drone soccer with several countries competing.
The drone film festival itself featured multiple categories and submitting two creations was quite taxing. It’s like ripping off a band-aid; the first time is always the hardest.
What a surprise when I received an email stating that I had won the documentary category and received an honorable mention for the reel I produced. I definitely got some laughs from my co-worker for the happy dance that followed the news.
Until next time
More flying, FPV, drone practice, mapping classes to understand how it works, more podcast recording, and networking in the agriculture world. The almond harvest is approaching and I have submitted a request to film again as I did last year. I will be filming with Ag Bee in a couple of weeks over a large vineyard. And soon, I will be droning at a dragon fruit pollination event.
Additionally, I started a documentary class through the Sundance Institute, an organization founded by Robert Redford in1981 to promote American storytelling and bring independent stories to the screen.
Never give up; keep working hard and practicing. Dreams do come true.
