The province of Jaén has innovated in the fight against the olive fly by incorporating agricultural drone technology . This strategy aims to strengthen the protection of traditional olive groves, internationally renowned for their extra virgin olive oil.
The Sierra Mágina Designation of Origin has played a key role in this initiative, promoting innovative methods to combat one of the pests that poses the most difficulties to producers, especially in areas with difficult access and rugged terrain.
Pioneering trials with drones in the fight against the plague
The pilot project stems from a collaboration between the JAV Foundation (Jaén Agritech Ventures) , public administrations, and associations such as the Sierra Mágina and Sierra de Segura designations of origin . The main objective is to compare the effectiveness of traditional tractor-based application with the innovative aerial application using drones on selected plots.
This initiative, supported by the Regional Delegation of Agriculture , aims to increase the environmental sustainability of olive groves by reducing the use of pesticides and enhancing the competitiveness of the production model. The dispersed nature of the farms, their state of neglect, and the difficulties of access in certain areas have prompted the search for technological solutions that broaden the reach of treatments.
The trial will cover approximately 200 hectares across different districts of Jaén, affected by the Bactrocera oleae infestation . Drone technology allows for optimized resource allocation, targeting the most challenging areas and minimizing environmental impact.
Techniques used: selective patching and ecological products
The treatment is carried out using the patch or band baiting technique , applying the insecticide to only about 25% of the crop area, in alternating rows within the olive tree canopy. This way, only the adult olive fly is targeted at the appropriate time, reducing the use of pesticides and limiting the environmental impact. To learn more about innovations in sustainable agriculture, you can consult Innovation and Sustainability in Agriculture.
The product used, Spintor Cebo , is a natural insecticide certified for organic farming, which reinforces the sector's commitment to sustainable production and waste reduction.
Along with targeted application, the technical team conducts weekly sampling at various locations, including pheromone traps, fly traps, and fruit damage analysis, following the Integrated Pest Management Guide for Olive Groves . This data allows treatments to be adjusted based on the actual risk. If you would like to learn more about advances in renewable energy applied to agriculture, you can visit advances in solar technologies for agriculture.
Monitoring and technology for efficient management
The campaign also includes geolocation systems on tractors to precisely monitor treated areas and prevent duplication. This reflects a commitment to digitalization and agricultural innovation , which improves efficiency in each treatment cycle and adds value to local production.
Weekly monitoring by technicians allows for tracking the pest's evolution and assessing the damage to the fruit. This information, managed through the Andalusian Plant Health Alert and Information Network (RAIF) , helps in making collective decisions and applying treatments at the most opportune time.
Since 1995, the Sierra Mágina model has promoted plant protection, generated employment in local companies and strengthened the olive oil sector, contributing to the economy and identity of the territory.
The incorporation of agricultural drones in olive fly control represents a decisive step forward for olive groves in Jaén, providing more precise, sustainable treatments tailored to each plot. This commitment to innovation, along with coordinated management, enhances the quality of extra virgin olive oil and addresses an endemic pest in a modern and responsible manner.