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 such as a telescopic camera, extra battery packs, and GIS software and license.
The focus of this purchase is on public health initiatives, and the drone will be utilized for scanning wells, septic systems, and locating abandoned wells with the goal of increasing operational efficiency and ensuring team safety. This technology will eliminate the need for ground inspections of wells and septic systems and expedite the search for abandoned wells.
Drones have become increasingly popular due to their advanced imaging capabilities. The $50,000 federal grant facilitated by the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services was used to purchase the drone. The 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 is committed to innovation and efficiency in public health practices by utilizing drone technology to enhance their well and septic system inspections.