FARGO, N.D. – North Dakota is at the forefront of precision agriculture, largely due to the groundbreaking work conducted at the Grand Farm Innovation Campus near Casselton. In today’s world, precision agriculture relies heavily on reliable, secure, high-speed internet connectivity.
DCN and Grand Farm have joined forces to establish wireless infrastructure on the farm, with a significant investment of $200,000. Here are the key components of the connectivity provided by DCN at the Grand Farm Innovation Campus:
- Gigabit Fiber Optic Connection: This connection not only provides high-capacity, low-latency connectivity to the Innovation Campus but also supports wireless needs across the entire Grand Farm.
- Radio Access Network (RAN): Similar to the technology used by cell phone companies, the RAN features multiple private 5G networks. These networks cover every square foot of the Grand Farm, ensuring seamless connectivity.
- CBRS Spectrum: The Citizens Broadband Radio Service (CBRS) spectrum securely carries data. DCN acquired spectrum from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) for the entire state of North Dakota, and the Grand Farm serves as the inaugural use case for this spectrum.
- Connection to a Core: DCN establishes a secure off-site core to manage and operate the system effectively.
Additionally, MLGC, a broadband company based in Enderlin, N.D., and one of DCN’s owner companies, will provide the “last mile” fiber for connectivity.
This robust infrastructure plays a pivotal role in advancing research, development, and validation of connective agricultural technology at the Grand Farm. By combining these cutting-edge technologies, the Grand Farm aims to maintain North Dakota’s leadership position in agriculture.
“DCN’s investment in the Grand Farm will yield positive effects for our entire community,” emphasized DCN CEO Seth Arndorfer.
