In 2021, Dakota Crow began flying agriculture drones for seeding and crop protection projects on his family’s farm after his dad came across the technology and shared it with him. Little did he know it would become a game-changer for farmers. 

Once word got out, more people became interested in the work he was doing, and it blossomed into a commercial application business. That growing interest eventually extended to the drones themselves, and Monarch Drone Solutions was born. As the owner and drone pilot, Crow now oversees a robust sales and service department and a test application crew. “Dakota is making huge waves for farmers in the Ozarks,” Annah Crow, marketing and event coordinator, said in her nomination. This technology helps farmers reach difficult areas to control invasive species and weeds, increasing grass growth, and it helps with seed application. 

What’s next? Dakota aims to bring a fully autonomous and electric tractor to the Ozarks market. His love for these products comes from watching his hardworking grandfather while growing up. “The part that drew me to what we do now with the sales and service of autonomous ag equipment was how he treated his customers,” Dakota says. “It’s been neat to do the same thing in a new era.” 

Where is your hometown?
“West Plains. I’m a Zizzer, and I have no idea, still to this day, what that is.”

What’s your favorite way to unwind in 417-land?
“I like to jog. One of my favorite places is at the Springfield Conservation Nature Center.”

Which 417-lander do you turn to for inspiration and advice?
“If it’s personal, definitely my wife Annah. If it has to do with application things, Roger Sanders. He was a crop duster for 40 years. If I need emotional support, I call my grandma.”