Organization calls for local control and safeguards for farmland, utility customers, and taxpayers
COLUMBIA, Mo. — Missouri citizens must have the deciding voice in whether proposed data centers move forward in their communities, according to a statement from Missouri Farmers Union (MFU).
As data center development accelerates across Missouri, the 94-year-old family farm organization calls for local oversight and an affirmative vote of affected residents before approval of any project.
“Missouri Farmers Union believes that local residents should have the deciding voice in decisions that will affect their communities for generations,” said MFU president Katie Nixon, a farmer from Wheatland, Missouri.
Specifically, MFU opposes data center development that converts productive farmland to industrial use, raises electricity rates, strains water supplies or threatens environmental quality and wildlife habitat. The organization also opposes public subsidies and tax incentives for data centers, as well as nondisclosure agreements that prevent communities from receiving information needed to fully evaluate proposed projects.
MFU supports responsible economic development, renewable energy solutions and private property rights exercised without compromising neighbors, natural resources or the long-term health of communities.
Undue Pressure on Farmland
Years of negative returns from agricultural commodities can make offers from data center developers attractive to struggling farm families. MFU argues, however, that converting productive farmland to industrial use is not a solution to agriculture’s underlying economic challenges.
The organization calls instead for greater recognition and investment in family farms and local food production to address the essential sector’s economic challenges. Stronger farm programs, adequate USDA staffing and services, and assistance transitioning to sustainable agricultural practices are among key strategies for keeping family farmers and the communities they support in business.
MFU emphasizes that data center concerns extend beyond rural Missouri. Food production takes place on family farms, urban farms, community gardens and in greenhouses throughout the state. Rising electricity costs, strained water supplies and threats to food security from data center development affect rural and urban residents alike.
“Family farmers and consumers share a common interest in affordable utilities, clean water, farmland, and a reliable food supply,” the statement says.
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About Missouri Farmers Union
Founded in 1932, Missouri Farmers Union is a grassroots, membership-driven organization representing family farmers, ranchers and rural communities. A chartered state division of National Farmers Union, MFU works through education, cooperation and advocacy to strengthen family agriculture and rural communities. Learn more at missourifarmersunion.us