Rural Broadband
Issue
Rural broadband is essential to modern agriculture, the farmers who grow our food, and the quality of life to rural Americans.
Background
Rural broadband provides access to global markets and allows for the use of precision agriculture. Farmers rely on this technology to follow commodity markets, communicate with customers, and to ensure regulatory compliance.
According to the Federal Communications Commission, 5.2% of Marylanders living in rural areas lack access to 25 Mbps/3 Mbps compared to 2.0% of urban residents. The counties with the least available access include Garrett (26.7%), Allegany (11.4%), Charles (8.0%), and Talbot (7.9%).
The United States Department of Agriculture reports that 23% of Maryland farms don’t have reliable internet access. The report also identifies satellite as the most common method for farm owners to access internet.
In 2019, Governor Larry Hogan announced a $9.9 million funding package to provide reliable internet access for 225,000 Marylanders in rural communities. This funding is part of the first wave of a five-year plan.
Position
Maryland Farm Bureau supports the expansion of broadband service to underserved rural areas.
Additional Resources
Rural Broadband
FCC Broadband Deployment Report
USDA Farm Computer Usage and Ownership Report
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