SIDELL, IL (Chambana Today) — Farmers in Vermilion County are taking crop applications to the next level with cutting-edge spray drones, thanks to Chief Drone Services, run by Alex Moore, his brother Corey Moore, and RH Pierce. The team works closely with local growers to improve efficiency, precision, and safety in the field.
Alex Moore, a Vermilion County native who grew up on a grain farm in Hoopeston, said his experience on the family farm gave him firsthand insight into the challenges growers face. “I used to be skeptical of drones, honestly,” Moore said. “But once I saw the benefits firsthand on our own farm, I jumped in headfirst. The precision and control you get with drone applications is incredible.”
The drones can apply fungicides, insecticides, and even cover crops more efficiently than traditional methods. “One of the main advantages is that the prop wash from the propellers gets the product deeper into the crop canopy,” Moore explained. “You get much better coverage, and drones can access field borders and obstacles that planes or helicopters just can’t reach.”
Moore emphasized that drift control and safety are top priorities. “We follow product labels carefully, use drift retardants, and won’t fly when conditions aren’t right. Your crops—and your neighbors’ fields—are treated responsibly.”
The drones can operate near windmills, power lines, and other obstacles. “We can fly under many power lines and around objects that traditional aerial applicators avoid. That’s where drones really shine,” Moore said.
Chief Drone Services is a family-and-friend-run business, operated by Alex, Corey, and RH. All pilots are fully licensed and insured, giving farmers peace of mind. “All of our pilots carry the same aerial applicator licenses required for planes and helicopters, and we carry high levels of liability coverage,” Moore said. “Most of us also farm ourselves, so we treat your acres like they’re our own.”
While some farmers may worry about cost, Moore said the overall savings and flexibility make drone applications competitive. “Yes, the application portion might be a little more expensive, but when you consider being able to shop your chemicals, take advantage of financing, and get better results, many of our customers have actually saved money,” Moore said.
“At the end of the day, drones aren’t just a gadget—they’re a tool that makes farming more precise, economical, and safe,” Moore said. “We’re proud to bring this technology to our community and help farmers see real results.”
Chief Drone Services operates across Illinois and Indiana, including Vermilion, Champaign, Iroquois, Ford, Edgar, Douglas, Benton, Warren, Fountain, and Park counties. Farmers interested in custom drone applications are encouraged to reach out directly via the company’s website.