The importance of high-speed internet connectivity stretches across all facets of our lives, impacting sectors we may not think of, such as agriculture. Connectivity is not only important, but essential for sustaining agricultural communities in the United States, as emphasized by Andy Berke, the administrator of the Rural Utilities Service at the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).
The prevalence of the digital divide
Astonishingly, nearly nine out of ten American farms rely on a secondary source of income, underscoring the critical need for reliable internet connectivity to diversify revenue streams. Regulatory burdens, high input costs, trade disruptions, and an aging workforce have contributed to the loss of over half a million farms since 1981.1 The lack of reliable internet significantly impedes the economic development potential of these communities, exacerbating the problem.
A renewed focus on infrastructure investment
Recognizing this pressing need, the U.S. government is making strategic moves, prioritizing investments in infrastructure to ensure that rural communities are not left behind in the digital revolution and are equipped to sustain their agricultural operations and drive economic development.
On April 29, 2024, the White House Domestic Policy Advisor, Neera Tanden and Secretary of Agriculture, Tom Vilsack, launched the Investing in Rural America Regional Event Series.2 They announced over $770 million in new investments that will benefit more than 1 million people living in rural communities. This investment includes $51.7 million to expand high-speed internet access, $644.2 million for clean water and sanitation projects, and $76.6 million for projects in underserved communities participating in the Rural Partners Network.
The Rural Partners Network is transforming how the federal government partners with rural communities by putting federal employees on the ground to help access resources. This investment will support 32 projects that expand access to jobs, business opportunities, quality healthcare, clean water, and renewable energy.
Key takeaways
As we pivot toward a more digitally oriented society, the following stand out:
- High-speed internet connectivity is vital for sustaining agricultural communities and rural economies in the United States, providing opportunities for diversification and economic stability.
- The U.S. government is prioritizing investments in infrastructure to bridge the digital divide in rural areas, ensuring that these communities are not left behind in the digital revolution.
- With over $770 million in new investments, the Rural Partners Network aims to transform how the U.S. federal government partners with rural communities.
The future of agriculture in the United States heavily depends on the strategic policies and investments the USDA can provide to rural communities. It is only through bridging this (digital) gap that we can ensure the sustainability and economic stability of our agricultural communities.
Citations:
1 Biden Administration official says connectivity is crucial to sustain agricultural communities. Broadband Communities Magazine. https://bbcmag.com/biden-administration-official-says-connectivity-is-crucial-to-sustain-agricultural-communities/
2 Biden Administration Announces Economic Development Projects in Rural Partners Network Communities | Rural Development. USDA. https://www.rd.usda.gov/newsroom/news-release/biden-administration-announces-economic-development-projects-rural-partners-network-communities
