FARGO, N.D. – North Dakota is leading the way in precision agriculture, in large part thanks to the work and research being done at the Grand Farm Innovation Campus just outside of Casselton. Precision ag, like almost anything these days, requires reliable, secure, high-speed internet connectivity and that’s where Dakota Carrier Network (DCN) is offering expertise.
DCN and Grand Farm have partnered for the wireless infrastructure at the farm, an investment of $200,000. There are four primary components to the connectivity DCN is providing on the Grand Farm Innovation Campus:
- Gigabit fiber optic connection – providing the Innovation Campus with connectivity and supporting the wireless needs throughout the Grand Farm Innovation Campus
- Radio Access Network – similar to the technology used by cell phone companies, multiple private 5G networks will allow connectivity to every square foot of the campus
- CBRS spectrum – a radio frequency to securely carry data with predictable performance
- Connection to a core – a secure off-site core to manage and run the system
In addition, MLGC, a broadband company based in Enderlin, N.D., and one of the owner companies of DCN, is providing the “last mile” fiber for the connectivity.
This infrastructure is critical for the research, development, and validation of connective ag technology that is being done at Grand Farm. Combining these technologies optimizes the research processes because the fiber optics ensure fast data transfer, the radio access network expands coverage, and CBRS spectrum offers additional bandwidth.
“This network will tie together the entire ecosystem of the Grand Farm Innovation Campus, enabling research that is critical to maintaining North Dakota’s position as a leader in agriculture,” explained DCN CEO Seth Arndorfer. “DCN is making this investment because successes at the Grand Farm will bring positive effects to main street North Dakota – increasing the demand for skilled workers, keeping young people in the state, and benefiting businesses from gas stations to software companies. Groundbreaking work is being done at Grand Farm and DCN is excited to be part of it.”
“The connectivity being provided will be critical for the work being done on Grand Farm’s Innovation Campus,” says Dr. William Aderholdt, Director of Grand Farm. “We are excited to be working with DCN which is known for its investments and thought leadership in innovation of rural and agriculture connectivity.”
This partnership creates a stronger program for this unique test bed for small businesses, large corporations, startups, and research institutions to solve problems in agriculture.
Arndorfer, Aderholdt
