How Better Connectivity is Transforming Rural Wisconsin
In the past, rural Wisconsin farmers faced many challenges that their urban counterparts didn’t - limited access to resources, slow or unreliable internet, and a lack of advanced agricultural technologies. However, in recent years, advancements in broadband internet technology and digital connectivity have transformed the agriculture in the state. Today, rural farmers are harnessing the power of technology to improve yields, reduce costs, and better connect with markets - helping to secure the future of Wisconsin agriculture.
The Digital Divide and Its Impact on Rural Agriculture
Historically, farmers in rural areas have been underserved by high-speed internet, limiting their ability to access tools and digital technologies that can improve efficiency and productivity. Slow or inconsistent connectivity made it difficult for farmers to take advantage of precision farming tools, weather forecasts, or even digital devices to sell their products online.
Wisconsin’s Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection reports that the agricultural sector generates more than $100 billion in annual economic output, making this divide a significant barrier for farmers. An article published by Forward Analytics cites the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), stating that in 2019 more than 430,000 rural Wisconsin residents lacked access to broadband internet with speeds of 25 Mbps or higher. This gap meant that many farmers were operating in unfavorable conditions, unable to tap into innovations that could boost their bottom lines.
FCC National Broadband Map of Wisconsin
Figure 1 - (Public Service Commission of Wisconsin [PSC], n.d.)
The Rise of Reliable Connectivity
That is all changing. The expansion of broadband infrastructure in rural Wisconsin has provided farmers with access to fast, reliable internet - something that was once a struggle due to lack of connectivity. Significant investments from grants and government programs have helped improve rural broadband access, and with Wisconsin Broadband Office’s broadband expansion efforts, the state has seen a rapid increase in high-speed internet availability.
As more rural areas gain access to reliable broadband, Wisconsin farmers are beginning to unlock the full potential of digital technology that was previously out of reach. These new capabilities are transforming farming practices and creating new opportunities for rural communities.
Precision Farming: Making Every Acre Count
One of the most significant impacts of improved connectivity is the rise of precision farming. This high-tech approach uses data from various sources - such as soil sensors, drones, satellites, and GPS systems - to optimize farming practices. With reliable internet, farmers can access real-time data that allows them to monitor soil conditions, track crop health, and precisely control irrigation and fertilization (4 Office, U. S. G. A).
For example, a farmer in rural Wisconsin can now use GPS-equipped tractors to plant seeds with pinpoint accuracy, while minimizing the waste of resources like seeds and fertilizer. Likewise, precision irrigation systems help farmers use water more efficiently, which is particularly important in times of drought or unusual weather patterns. These technologies are empowering farmers to make smarter, data-driven decisions that lead to better yields and maximized costs.
Leveraging Weather Data for Smarter Farming
Weather is always a critical factor for farmers, and having access to accurate, up-to-the-minute forecasts can make all the difference in crop management. In the past, rural farmers often had to rely on general weather reports from local radio stations or newspapers. Today, with high-speed internet, farmers can access local weather data through apps and online platforms that provide ongoing forecasts.
For example, these services can help farmers make decisions about when to plant, irrigate, or harvest. Advanced weather forecasting tools can also provide alerts about extreme weather conditions, such as severe storms or frost, giving farmers the chance to protect their crops in real time.
E-Commerce and Direct-to-Consumer Sales
One of the most exciting developments for Wisconsin farmers is the ability to sell their products directly to consumers through e-commerce platforms. With reliable internet, farmers can now list their goods online, manage their own websites, and even partner with larger organizations to expand their reach.
This shift is especially important for small-scale farmers and specialty producers like artisanal cheese makers, organic vegetable growers, or ginseng harvesters. In the past, selling products often required farmers to rely on wholesalers, local markets, or middlemen. Now, farmers can access global markets, set their own prices, and build direct relationships with customers. This not only boosts their profits but also provides consumers with fresher, more diverse products.
For example, a Wisconsin farm that produces honey or maple syrup can now sell directly to customers in Chicago or New York, or even reach international buyers. Similarly, local producers of grass-fed beef or organic produce can offer home delivery services to urban areas, catering to the growing demand for sustainable and locally sourced foods.
Overcoming Challenges and Looking Ahead
While expansion of broadband internet access in rural Wisconsin has already had a significant impact, there are still challenges to overcome. Some farmers, especially those in more remote areas, continue to struggle with spotty or inconsistent connectivity. Additionally, high-speed internet services can be expensive for small farmers with limited budgets for technology investments.
However, as more grants and public investments are made in rural broadband infrastructure, these challenges will likely decrease. Furthermore, as the agricultural industry continues to adopt new technologies, there will be an increasing demand for digital advancements.
A Digital Future for Rural Wisconsin Agriculture
The technological transformation of rural Wisconsin is well underway, thanks to better connectivity. From precision farming and weather forecasting to e-commerce, farmers now have the tools they need to improve productivity, reach new markets, and make smarter, data-driven decisions. With continued investments in broadband infrastructure and digital adaptations, the future of farming in rural Wisconsin looks brighter than ever. As technology continues to evolve, Wisconsin’s farmers are ready to set the standard for sustainable, innovative, and profitable agricultural practices - empowered by the connectivity that is now within their reach.
Sources
1 Broadband in rural Wisconsin. (n.d.-b). https://www.forward-analytics.net/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2020-FA-Report-Broadband-in-Rural-Wisconsin.pdf
2 Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection. DATCP Home Wisconsin Agricultural Statistics. (n.d.). https://datcp.wi.gov/Pages/Publications/WIAgStatistics.aspx
3 Internet for all. PSC Internet for All. (n.d.-a). https://psc.wi.gov/Pages/ServiceType/Broadband/InternetForAll.aspx
4 Office, U. S. G. A. (n.d.). Precision agriculture: Benefits and challenges for technology adoption and use. Precision Agriculture: Benefits and Challenges for Technology Adoption and Use | U.S. GAO. https://www.gao.gov/products/gao-24-105962#:~:text=Precision%20agriculture%20uses%20technologies%20such,data%20about%20their%20cows%27%20health.