Rural broadband poll finds farmers need more connectivity

United Soybean Board graphic

Most farmers say they don't have enough broadband connectivity to run their businesses, according to a recent survey by the United Soybean Board. It found:

• 78% of farmers do not have a choice of internet service providers.
• 60% of farmers say their service is slow, with most relying on cell signals or personal "hotspots" to connect.
• 40% of farmers have a fixed internet connection, while others rely on satellite connections.
• In the 18 months before being surveyed, nearly one-third of farmers said internet connectivity has affected their decisions on upgrading farm equipment.
• 67% of farmers believe it is at least moderately important to be able to transfer data wirelessly from the field.
• Only 32% of farmers consider their office internet reliable.
• 59% of farmers want to incorporate more data in their operation, but lack the connectivity to do so.

The survey was conducted online and by mail, and got more than 2,000 responses. Among the respondents, 86% grow field or row crops such as corn and soybeans, 21% grow specialty crops like fruits and vegetables, and 55% raise livestock.