The Catawba Valley Farmers Market (CVFM) invites area residents to come to the market on Thursday not only for fresh produce and other local foods and crafts but also to see a demonstration on the use of drones in agriculture.

The demonstration is from 4-5:30 p.m. Dan Swafford, project associate for Virginia Cooperative Extension, is involved with research at Virginia Tech in the use of drones to do health checks on cattle and sheep. Other uses of drones on farms include herding animals, inspecting crops for damage from insects and animals, checking fences, farmland and ponds, and applying insecticides and herbicides. Drones may also be helpful to older farmers with limited mobility and to farmers with disabilities. Virginia Tech is also involved with research into the use of drones to help keep the younger people down on the farm. The CVFM is located at the Catawba Community Center, 4965 Catawba Creek Road (Rt. 779) in Catawba. The market is held on Thursdays from 3:30-7 p.m., rain or shine. However, the drone cannot fly in rain or storms. For up-to-date information on foods and crafts available each week, entertainment and special events, see www.catawbafarmersmarket.com or the Facebook page, Catawba Valley Farmers Market.