A new report from the Department of Agriculture highlights the need for agricultural to have access to rural broadband.
Specifically, the report found rural broadband and the next generation of precision agriculture tools are critical components for creating access to resources, tools and opportunity for America’s farmers.
Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue announced the findings Tuesday.
The report shows technology on farms and ranches throughout the U.S. could result in at least $47 billion in national economic benefits every year.
Perdue states USDA is committed to “doing our part to clear the way for nationwide broadband connectivity.”
The report also finds that if broadband infrastructure and digital technologies at scale were available at a level that meets estimated producer demand, the U.S. economy could realize benefits equivalent to nearly 18 percent of total agriculture production.
Of that 18 percent, more than one-third is dependent on broadband e-connectivity, equivalent to at least $18 billion in annual economic benefits that only high-speed, reliable internet can provide.