In Ford County, Kansas, residents are raising the alarm over the proposed construction of a data center in our community. We oppose data centers being considered in Ford County. Data centers can consume enormous amounts of electricity and water, strain local infrastructure, increase utility costs, create noise pollution, rely on diesel backup generators, and put additional pressure on our aquifers, our critical drinking-water source.

The primary concern is the enormous water consumption that these facilities demand, which risks depleting our already limited water resources. This issue is personal to all of us, as our local water supplies are crucial not just for daily living but also for sustaining our agriculture-dependent economy.

The agricultural industry in Ford County is a cornerstone of our community, providing livelihoods for thousands of farmers, ranchers and their families. These farmers & ranchers work tirelessly to produce crops & livestock that not only feed our local population but are also shipped elsewhere, contributing significantly to the broader market. Any threat to the availability of water is a threat to this vital part of our economy. Reduced water resources would directly impact crop yields, leading to financial hardships for farmers and affecting food supplies.

Data centers, by nature, require immense amounts of water for cooling purposes. In regions like Ford County, where water is a precious commodity, diverting such large quantities of it for data center operations is unsustainable. We should be prioritizing the needs of our community and environment, ensuring that we have enough water to meet our needs today and in the future.

Moreover, the construction and operation of large data centers might lead to other environmental concerns, including increased energy consumption and potential pollution. These factors combined could change the landscape of Ford County in ways that are undesirable for residents.

The construction of data centers on these lands is not just a threat to the environment; it’s a disruption to a delicate ecosystem. Data centers require significant amounts of electricity, putting an undue strain on our power supply and leading to increased rates for local residents. Additionally, these centers contribute to the formation of "heat domes," which can drastically alter the local climate, making the areas inhospitable for traditional farming and driving away wildlife.

We urge local decision-makers and developers to vote NO to data centers and look for alternative solutions that do not jeopardize our natural resources. It’s imperative to explore avenues that align with sustainable growth without compromising the livelihood of our farmers & ranchers or the community's access to essential resources.

Please sign this petition to stand with the residents of Ford County. We need your support to protect our water resources and preserve the agricultural heritage that sustains us. Let’s ensure that any development in our region is beneficial to our community without sacrificing our future. Sign now and make your voice heard!