William Ferris

This research seeks to develop a simple, low-cost methodology of using kite aerial photography (KAP) to conduct imaging and mapping of agricultural operations. The purpose of this research is to develop a means to overcome the cost- and training hurdles that conventional aerial imaging methods pose to farmers in developing countries who might otherwise seek to integrate geographic information systems analysis methods into their crop planning and analysis procedures. The author has developed a low-cost (sub-$150) methodology by which a stabilizing camera suspension rig can be flown from a delta kite to systematically collect images of agricultural operations, which can be merged using georeferenced ground features to create usable Geographic Information System (GIS) layers and raster imagery files. Initial construction and testing of the rig and georeferencing methodology has yielded promising results. Final image collection will be conducted at Blacksburg, Virginia’s Hale Community Garden. The results will be used to develop usable GIS layers and raster imagery of a real -world horticultural operation as a proof of efficacy of the developed methodology. This research has potential implications for the field of development economics. Providing farmers with a means to conduct aerial imaging and mapping themselves would reduce the burden on development organizations by allowing such organizations to focus solely on offsite image analysis, rather than on both on-site collection and subsequent off-site analysis. This would allow such organizations to boost operational efficiency and thus total reach.

William Ferris is a third-year Ph.D. candidate in the Agricultural and Applied Economics department at Virginia Tech. He is also completing a fellowship through the university's Institute for Critical Technology and Applied Science. His research areas include Chesapeake Bay denitrification, stormwater management, economic development, and applied geographic information systems. He holds a B.A. in Economics from William & Mary.