Minnesota turkey farmers say expanded rural broadband could help detect bird flu sooner

Despite political momentum for rural broadband buildouts, many Minnesota farms still lack the internet technology that might otherwise ease the arduousness of working a farm. In 2023, Minnesota politicians touted record investments in broadband infrastructure, including more than $700 million in federal and state funding. The goal: wiring the entire state with high-speed internet, much like last century's expansion of rural electrification. Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan (D-MN) said the state aims to hook up families with faster connectivity, whether they live in Minneapolis or the farthest "reaches of the north woods." "As equipment becomes more advanced, our farms, our soybean fields, our cornfields, and our transportation systems are increasingly relying on strong internet connection," Lt. Gov. Flanagan said. Poor internet connection on farms causes a range of problems—from minor lifestyle inconveniences to more meaningful limitations.