4-H Drone Day At Arlington

Join us at the Arlington Research Station for a hands-on morning exploring how drones, robots, artificial intelligence, and engineering are transforming modern agriculture. Youth in Grades 5-13 and their families will experience live drone demonstrations, see cutting-edge farm technology in action, and learn from UW-Madison experts.

Farming with AI: Robots, Drones & More!

Time: 9:30-10:15 am

Zhou Zhang & Zezhong Tian, UW-Madison CALS Department of Biological Systems Engineering

Program description: drone demo and presentation

• See how drones collect information about crops, plants, and fields—and discover how this technology is changing agriculture.

• Discover how artificial intelligence is helping farmers solve problems, make decisions, and work smarter. See real-world examples of AI being used with crops, animals, robots, drones, and food—and learn what the future of farming might look like.

Smart Machines: Engineering the Future of Farming

Time: 10:15-11:00 am

Jeff Nelson, UW-Madison CALS Department of Biological Systems Engineering

Program description: technology and robot demo

• Discover how engineers use electronics, sensors, machinery, and technology to make farming more efficient and precise.

• See how tractors, machines, and precision-agriculture tools work—and explore how engineers are designing the next generation of equipment used on farms.

From Sky to Soil!

Time: 11:00-11:45

Bryce Himmelbrg, UW Madison CALS Department of Plant & Agroecosystems

Program description: drone presentation & demo

• See how large spray drones are programmed and flown to help farmers care for their crops.

• Learn how drones can apply products to fields with precision, reach areas that are difficult to access with traditional equipment, and help farmers manage crops more efficiently.

12:00-12:45 -Stay for crafts, snacks and more!

• Snacks & drinks will be provided!

• Paint a pumpkin!

• Explore the Arlington Research Station!

• Veggie art lab!

The University of Wisconsin–Madison Division of Extension provides equal opportunities in employment and programming in compliance with state and federal law.

This event will be conducted in English. You may request an interpreter, materials in an alternative language or format, or other services to make this event more accessible. Contact Dane County 4-H at 4Hinfo@danecounty.gov or 608-224-3700 by October 1, 2026. There is no added cost to you for these services.