OMAHA, Neb. (RFD-TV) — Data center development continues to generate discussion across rural America, with many conversations centered on the potential impact to farmland and rural communities.
Barchart analyst Darin Newsom joined us on Friday’s Market Day Report to discuss a different perspective raised in his recent column, exploring whether farmland should be viewed as a family legacy or as an investment.
In his interview with RFD-TV, Newsom said his column examines the idea of farmland as a commodity, noting that land, like other assets, can be bought and sold. He said the discussion is intended to encourage producers and landowners to think about farmland from an investment standpoint as well as a personal one.
He also discussed why he believes there is another side to the ongoing conversation surrounding data center development. While acknowledging that concerns exist, Newsom said he believes landowners should also consider the financial opportunities that may come with offers for their property.
Newsom said farm families who receive offers for their land should carefully evaluate their own long-term goals before making a decision. He said each operation’s circumstances are different, and factors such as future plans for the farm and family objectives should be part of the decision-making process.
As demand for data centers continues to grow, Newsom said producers should continue monitoring how those opportunities may affect farmland values and future land-use decisions.
READ MORE: Is Farm Land a Commodity or Family Heirloom? - Barchart
