Rural broadband access is not only essential for keeping up with the latest innovations and technologies in agriculture, it is also crucial to attracting a new generation of farmers.
Quick Facts:
- Precision agriculture is a data-based farm management approach that focuses on targeting inputs, reducing waste and improving management practices. It allows farmers to use the most innovative and sustainable practices, however a dramatic increase in internet connectivity is needed before we can see widespread adoption of these practices.
- A significant portion of primary producers in Canada lack access to broadband internet service, while a larger proportion are lacking access on a reliable, affordable basis.
- Lack of competition has led to problems of affordability, inconsistent servicing, inadequate download/upload speeds and lack of adequate investment of rural broadband infrastructure.
- Access to broadband internet is an important lifestyle consideration for all Canadians, particularly young people. If rural Canada and agriculture is to remain attractive to future generations, access to reliable broadband will be critical.
Issue Overview
Rural broadband access is not only essential for keeping up with the latest innovations and technologies in agriculture, it is also crucial to attracting a new generation of farmers.
Rural broadband is a key fundamental pillar in allowing agriculture to achieve it’s potential, not only in productivity but also in emission reduction and reduction of inputs such as pesticides.
In the 2020 Federal Budget, the Government of Canada promised to have 100% high-speed internet coverage in Canada by 2030. However, Canadian producers that lack access to reliable, affordable broadband will continue to miss out on opportunities. Strategic investments are needed to ensure Canadian agriculture is positioned for success in supporting Canada’s economic recovery.
Working Toward Solutions:
CFA’s Rural Policy Committee put forth a series of recommendations to the federal government in their 2017 Pre-budget consultations, stressing the need for rural Canada to receive adequate attention in future broadband infrastructure spending.
This ask has been reiterated in consecutive pre-budget submissions over the following years.
With the Federal Government announcing that it will have 100% high-speed coverage by 2030, CFA is working to ensure that this coverage address the sector’s needs as quickly as possible, and that is not only good for today’s needs, but also future-proof as needs for bandwidth increase. For example, the continued roll-out of precision agriculture technologies highlights the immense potential were there to be field-level wireless broadband coverage across Canada.
CFA Recommendations:
- Develop a rural digital infrastructure strategy: That the government convene key stakeholders around clear, short-term connectivity and affordability targets for digital infrastructure, to build a foundation for long-term vibrancy in rural Canada.