As the wet weather continues, and rain continues to run across the paddocks, the threat of the African Boxthorn continues to grow.

The AgTech workshop focusing on the theoretical and practical elements of drone training on 13 September was cancelled at Quambone farm, Pier Pier due to a lack of access and predicted rainfall.

Pier Pier landowner Keiran McHugh, says that even though the workshop has been cancelled, many farmers are still interested in implementing drones into their everyday farming practices.

"We are currently looking at different methods to assist us with different practices on the farm, trying to find the best approaches to different practices. The use of drones could be the most effective approach to re- occurring and time consuming practices like spraying".

"We currently do not use drones, but we are very interested in implementing technology to assist us in making difficult practices, easier, more time effective and cheaper" Mr McHugh said.

Agricultural drones are now being used for the treatment of weeds, pests and even crop diseases. The use of drones could save farmers money and time if used effectively.

The African Boxthorn is continuing to pose a huge threat to Coonamble, Quambone and surrounding areas. Keiran McHugh agrees that drones could be the answer to helping stop the spread of boxthorn.

"The biggest threat the African boxthorn poses is the extent of space it takes up. As the weed continues to spread, it takes up usable country for grazing. We pay so much to own the land, and we want to use as much of it as we can".

"Agricultural drones can show us the extent of the spread of the boxthorn and could help us in locating boxthorn without wiping out trees," Mr McHugh said.

Boxthorn can also threaten the health of livestock and humans. The large thorns can injure stock and are poisonous when consumed by humans.

African Boxthorn is a destructive species and is expected to thrive in the current conditions.

By implementing agricultural drones, farmers can gain access to important information including gaining area understanding and boxthorn density. New technology provides a viable solution to sometimes costly spraying practices.

"In the past, spot spraying, aeroplanes, excavators and dosers have been used to clear and spray unwanted weeds on farming land".

"With the current costs of living increasing, we do not want to waste money and end up with the wrong result. We want to make our money go a bit further, have a good plan in place- Drones could be the best possible answer for that," Mr McHugh said.