Drones Take Flight in Oklahoma to Combat Invasive Red Cedars

Oklahoma conservationists are employing a latest weapon in the fight against the spread of eastern redcedars: drones. The trees, which pose a wildfire risk and threaten the state’s agricultural lands, are being targeted with precision herbicide applications delivered by unmanned aerial vehicles.

The Red Cedar Problem

Eastern redcedars are highly flammable, with limbs growing close to the ground and foliage that readily ignites. They act as “ladder fuels,” allowing flames to spread from the ground to treetops and even structures [1]. Their proliferation is likened to a potential “Dust Bowl” scenario, threatening allergies, asthma, and the economic viability of agriculture in Oklahoma [1].

Drone Technology in Action

Grass Ag, an Oklahoma City-based company, is leading the charge with its drone technology. The drones scan land to detect redcedars and then precisely apply herbicide pellets to individual trees [1], [2]. The system can identify and treat trees, changing colors on a screen to indicate completed applications [2].

Cost-Effectiveness and Environmental Considerations

According to Levi Wilson, president of Grass Ag, the drone method is more cost-effective than traditional mechanical removal, potentially costing between $1 and $3 per tree, depending on size [1]. The Oklahoma Conservation Commission estimates manual removal costs between $700 and $1,000 per acre, even as drone application could range from $100 to $150 per acre [2]. Wilson emphasizes that the precise application minimizes environmental impact, using a small amount of herbicide in a targeted treatment [1].

Legislative Support and Future Plans

Representative Mike Dobrinski (R-Okeene) has introduced House Bill 2988, which proposes an income tax credit for landowners who engage in qualified stewardship practices to remove harmful woody species [1]. Legislative analysts estimate the bill could cost around $3 million [1]. The Oklahoma Conservation Commission is also testing the drone method within the Terry Peach North Canadian Restoration Project to assess its effectiveness [1]. To date, the company has formally treated approximately 500 acres [1].