The Guilford County Department of Public Health is set to acquire a DJI Mavic 3 Enterprise drone thanks to funding from the American Rescue Plan Act. The drone will come equipped with advanced technology, including a telescopic camera, extra battery packs, and GIS software and license.
The focus of this purchase is on public health initiatives, with the drone set to be utilized for scanning wells, septic systems, and locating abandoned wells. This technology will increase operational efficiency and ensure team safety by eliminating the need for ground inspections of wells and septic systems and expediting the search for abandoned wells.
Drones are increasingly being used for inspections due to their advanced imaging capabilities. The funding for the drone purchase comes from a $50,000 federal grant facilitated by the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services. This grant must be used for essential public health programs or purposes and cannot replace existing funding sources. The remaining grant funds will be allocated towards supporting other programs and departmental training initiatives.
In conclusion, the Guilford County Department of Public Health’s commitment to innovation and efficiency in public health practices is reflected in their decision to use drone technology to enhance their well and septic system inspections.
