Manson company brings high-tech solutions to local agriculture

MANSON –  A new approach to crop management is taking root in Central Washington as AgHawk Dynamics brings drone technology to local farms, vineyards, and orchards. 

AgHawk was created on the premise of trying to help turn agriculture upside down in a positive way, owner Chris Dandridge said.

The Manson-based company offers aerial application services designed to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and minimize human exposure to chemicals.

“We’re so excited to transform how trees, vineyards and fields are managed today to help preserve agricultural legacy in our local community,” said Chris Dandridge, owner of AgHawk Dynamics. “Our goal is to empower farmers with better data and insights to make informed decisions about crop performance compared to the traditional methods.”

When Dandridge and his family moved to Manson about seven years ago, they set to work to revive an old orchard, creating an oasis for their family. On the other side of the orchard, they are working to grow a small vineyard.

“And as we've been going through the process, we've always been kind of thinking, well, there has to be a better way of doing things, you know, a better way of managing the land, the crops, if it were, and a safer way of being able to handle chemicals or types of fertilizer, whatever it is that we're trying to apply, and try to remove some of that human component,” he said.

Dandridge has a passion for technology and has worked in the industry for a long time. Observing the challenges of traditional farming methods and inspired by drone technology being used out east, he saw an opportunity to integrate his passion for technology with agriculture.

“Our services empower growers and farmers to apply such things as pesticides, fungicides, herbicides, fertilizers and seed in a fraction of the time plus track these applications digitally down to the product, parcel, wind and temperature readings,” he said. “This data driven approach and precise and rapid application is what differentiates us from the traditional methods.”

The company uses a customer-centric approach since every farm is different.

“We map out the blocks of property that require various product applications and schedules,” Dandridge said. “We then leverage our proprietary technology to build out the entire season.”

“Customers are always in the know as we deliver these services to avoid any surprises,” he said. “We regularly meet with the growers and managers to make sure we meet their expectations and adjust for unforeseen circumstances.”

With a focus on improving sustainability and providing reliable data, AgHawk Dynamics aims to support local farmers as they adapt to evolving agricultural needs.

For more information, visit aghawkdynamics.com.

Quinn Propst: 509-731-3590 or quinn@ward.media.