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Rural broadband expansion efforts in Indiana continue

The Indiana Broadband Strategic Partnership is working to expand access to broadband across the state.  The IBSP was formed by Indiana Farm Bureau, and also includes the Cook Medical Group, Duke Energy Foundation, Indiana Association of Realtors, Radius Indiana, and the Regional Opportunity Initiative. 

Katrina Hall senior director, policy strategy with the Indiana Farm Bureau says to pinpoint the areas most in need the association has placed an internet speed test on its website.  “The data from the speed test can be used by grant applicants and also by the state to make sure and verify where broadband is and where it’s not affordable or it’s not available,” she says.

She tells Brownfield new broadband maps are currently in development and its important for farmers and members of rural communities to have conversations with their local broadband task force.  “I don’t know that it’s been completely defined yet and it’s sort of emerging how much connectivity is needed for precision agriculture,” she says.  “And for monitoring that will be required as we move into more sustainable, climate-driven, ag practices.”

A link to the Indiana Speed Test can be found HERE.

AUDIO: Katrina Hall, Indiana Farm Bureau