DENVER, Colo. (RFD-TV) — Rapid growth in Artificial Intelligence (AI) is fueling a surge in data center investment, driving increased demand for land, power, and infrastructure. Rural America is emerging as an attractive destination for these projects, offering available space, access to energy, and the potential for significant economic benefits.
Jeff Johnston, digital infrastructure economist with CoBank’s Knowledge Exchange, joined us on Friday’s Market Day Report to discuss why data center developers are increasingly looking to rural communities and what that trend could mean for local economies.
In an interview with RFD-TV News, Johnston explained the factors driving data center operators to rural areas, including lower land costs, proximity to energy resources, and fewer congestion challenges than in urban markets. He also highlighted findings from a recent CoBank report that outlines the scale of economic opportunity data centers can bring to rural regions, from construction activity to long-term tax revenue and infrastructure investment. He also addressed concerns raised in some communities where proposed data center projects have faced resistance. He discussed potential risks rural areas should consider, including power demand, water use, and community fit, emphasizing the importance of careful planning and local engagement.
Finally, Johnson shared his perspective on whether rural residents should be cautious about hosting data centers. He noted that while skepticism is natural, well-structured projects can provide meaningful benefits when aligned with local priorities.
All eyes will be on today’s Cattle on Feed Report, which analysts say could give a clearer picture of where the market goes next.
September 19, 2025 01:01 PM
·
American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) economist Danny Munch explains how the Emergency Livestock Relief Program application process differs from other USDA aid programs.
September 18, 2025 01:39 PM
·
For rural communities, this shift could mean new housing options for farmworkers and young families priced out of metro markets.
September 18, 2025 11:37 AM
·
Sen. Roger Marshall, a founding member and chairman of the Make America Healthy Again caucus, joined us with his thoughts on the commission’s latest report and the key ag-related issues.
September 17, 2025 04:36 PM
·
Katelyn joined us on Wednesday’s Market Day Report to discuss her upcoming episode of Dirt Diaries: The FarmHER + RanchHER Podcast and share her ag journey.
September 17, 2025 02:42 PM
·
The Fertilizer Research Act, reintroduced by Sens. Grassley, Ernst, and Baldwin, would direct the USDA to study and publish public reports on competition and pricing trends in the fertilizer market.
September 16, 2025 05:08 PM
·
Allowing year-round sales of E15 nationally could deliver billions in economic gains, according to a new study from the Renewable Fuels Association and National Corn Growers Association.
September 16, 2025 02:29 PM
·
U.S. producers are holding off on equipment investments amid financial pressure, market uncertainty, a rising demand for diesel, and growing desperation for trade wins.
September 12, 2025 11:18 AM
·
How many burgers could you buy instead of a house?
September 12, 2025 10:04 AM
·
