Weld County Public Works on Aug. 13 accepted a 2025 NACo Achievement Award for using spray drones to treat noxious weeds in locations that are difficult or hazardous for employees to reach.

Curtis Hall of the county's noxious-weed program said the division began using a spray drone in 2024 to treat wetlands, stockpiles and other areas that posed safety risks for staff. Hall said the drone program has increased quality of control, reduced employee exposure and offered quicker treatment times that improve team efficiency.

The staff presentation said the spray drone helps the team meet state requirements while minimizing impacts on native wildlife and beneficial plants, and allows the county to be efficient with time, energy and resources. Hall thanked commissioners for "having the courage to step forward" and allow the county to pilot the technology.

Commissioners praised the effort as a forward-looking use of technology. Commissioner Kevin Ross said the drone approach is "so much more efficient" and "more accurate," using less pesticide or herbicide, while Commissioner Jason Maxey highlighted the county's use of technology to help private landowners and improve spot-treatment effectiveness.

The board accepted the NACo award during the Aug. 13 meeting; staff noted cooperation with neighboring Larimer County on coordinated drone treatments and that field trials were ongoing.