Record rainfall in areas like Bell-lloc d'Urgell, where over 150 liters have fallen since Christmas, has left many fields underwater. The agricultural sector is now using drones from companies like Ilerdron to apply foliar fertilizer, a technique that allows plants to receive nutrients through their leaves while the roots recover from water asphyxiation.
“"In many estates, the ground remains flooded. Some prefer not to delay treatments any longer to save the cereal."
Current Spanish legislation strictly limits aerial spraying, requiring special authorization from the Generalitat and coordination with law enforcement and emergency services. This pilot program in Lleida could set a precedent for more flexible use of drone technology in European agriculture during extreme weather events.
