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.
Dr. Jeffrey Gold, President of the University of Nebraska, joined RFD-TV to discuss how seasonal stress and mental health concerns can make it more challenging to get a restful night’s sleep
October 29, 2025 03:22 PM
·
Prepare for softer milk checks into winter, watch cull-cow values and timing, and stress-test cash flow as product prices recalibrate.
October 29, 2025 03:11 PM
·
Cattle markets are collapsing this week, and analysts say that several factors are at play. Consumer beef prices also remain near all-time highs, threatening long-term demand.
October 29, 2025 12:58 PM
·
FarmHER Erin Cumings shares how Nationwide’s “Every STEP Counts” helps farm and agribusiness owners prioritize safety.
October 28, 2025 01:21 PM
·
Shaun Haney, Host of RealAg Radio, discusses President Trump’s move to halt trade talks with Canada and Mexico over a commercial about tariffs launched by the Government of Ontario.
October 28, 2025 12:04 PM
·
The President’s trip to Asia this week follows a trade mission by the Iowa Soybean Association. Farmers say they were reminded that U.S. soybeans have an international reputation that can be easy to take for granted here at home.
October 28, 2025 11:28 AM
·
The U.S.-Japan tech pact signals long-term investment in bio-innovation, connectivity, and secure supply chains — all of which can strengthen rural manufacturing, ag exports, and digital infrastructure critical to the next generation of farm productivity.
October 28, 2025 11:01 AM
·
She saw him play besides greats like Dolly Parton, Bob Dylan, Conway Twitty, and more.
October 28, 2025 09:00 AM
·
Harvest Marches on as River Logistics And Inputs Steer Bids
October 27, 2025 04:09 PM
·
