• assess the feasibility of drone-based spraying in agroforestry systems;
• improve the precision and sustainability of pesticide application;
• support knowledge transfer and encourage the digital transition in the agroforestry sector;
• demonstrate potential input savings and reduced environmental impact.

Activities

Project activities included:

• drone characterising - preliminary calibration and functional testing of the drone sprayer were carried out by NEIKER, together with drone companies. Flow rate, spray pattern and effective swath were adjusted in situ to fit the topography and canopy structure of the agroforestry plots in Aramaio (Álava).
• designing of drift-assessment protocol - NEIKER adapted reference methodologies to local forestry conditions, defining a simple collector array to quantify horizontal and vertical drift during flight tests. No human-exposure or residue protocols were implemented in this pilot project.
• comparative field trials - these were carried out in order to evaluate the effectiveness of drone spraying compared to conventional ground equipment. Drift was monitored using simplified field techniques adapted to forestry conditions. All drone operations were conducted in accordance with AESA regulations, including the use of basic personal protective equipment, designated buffer zones and flight plan approvals.
• capacity building and knowledge transfer - UAGA and NEIKER organised on-site demonstrations and training sessions for local farmers and technicians.

• Preliminary calibration and functional testing of the drone sprayer enabled in-situ adjustments to flow rate, spray pattern, and effective swath to fit the specific topography of different types of terrain.
• Comparative trial observations indicated equal or better product distribution, lower spray volumes and a perceived reduction in drift beyond the target area. While no human exposure monitoring or residue analysis was performed, the pilot project confirmed that drones can operate safely and efficiently in steep, wooded terrain.
• UAGA and NEIKER organised on-site demonstrations and training sessions for local farmers and technicians. Additionally, a concise summary report of the pilot experience was distributed to project partners and regional stakeholders, fostering digital adoption among small and medium-sized farms in the Basque Country.

Key lessons

• It is worth highlighting the importance of aligning technological innovation with regulatory compliance from the outset. Early coordination with AESA ensured that drone operations adhered strictly to legal requirements for airborne spraying, including operator safety protocols, environmental buffer zones and approved flight plans.
• Rather than developing standardised EU protocols, the project focused on adapting simplified field methodologies to local forestry conditions involving local farmers and technicians. Practical demonstrations helped build trust and understanding around drone capabilities, particularly their potential to optimise input use and reduce drift in challenging landscapes.
• Although the project did not aim to influence national regulation, it contributed to strengthening local capacity and awareness, laying the groundwork for broader adoption of drone-based precision agriculture among small and medium-sized farms in the Basque Country.