There has been a lot of progress made in connecting rural America with high-speed internet.
However, one economist says that there is still a ways to go.
According to Jeff Johnston, an economist with Ecobank, “We’re moving in the right direction, but we’re not where we need to be quite yet. There is $42.5 billion that was earmarked out of the Infrastructure, Investment, and Jobs Act, and specifically, it’s the BEAD Program within that piece of legislation, and that’s really exciting. That’s an unprecedented amount of capital, an unprecedented amount of money that the government has set aside to support building out rural broadband networks to get those who are not connected connected.”
One of the largest obstacles with connectivity is getting the copper wiring laid out in rural areas.
Johnston says the BEAD Program has not made much progress yet, but says that he is hoping more can be done in the coming months.
The Purdue student team joins us to discuss how they developed Soy-Seal, their innovative soybean-based adhesive tape, and its potential ag impact.
April 29, 2026 03:33 PM
·
John Mays with Central Life Sciences joins us to discuss the importance of pest management ahead of wheat storage and how protecting grain quality can support stronger marketing opportunities.
April 29, 2026 03:18 PM
·
University of Arkansas researchers are working to help farmers reduce grain waste and get more value out of their crops.
April 29, 2026 03:03 PM
·
According to a tweet from Rep. Anna Paulina Luna, the full House vote on the Farm Bill will be held until lawmakers return from recess.
April 29, 2026 02:50 PM
·
Roger McEowen joins us to explain the USDA appeals process and how farmers should navigate adverse decisions and crop insurance disputes.
April 29, 2026 02:20 PM
·
Louisiana soybean farmers are moving quickly to get this year’s crop planted during a key window for yield potential.
April 29, 2026 02:08 PM
·
