Yuma County – Before leaving office, former Governor Doug Ducey made sure to notify Yuma County of a $6 million award to help build a network of wireless broadband towers to support the county’s agricultural industry and rural broadband access. bottom.

State-of-the-art mobile tower networks enable the use of remote sensors, drones, satellites, artificial intelligence and automated equipment known as AgTech. These are necessary for the modern agricultural industry to ensure competitiveness, productivity, sustainability and protection. national food security.

“This is important because of the commitment from agricultural research companies around the world who have expressed interest in coming to Yuma County if this type of network is available,” said vice chairman of the oversight board. One Jonathan Lines said:

The network will be utilized by the University of Arizona’s Agricultural Extension Program and Yuma County farmers. This will connect to the Middle Mile Fiber Network that Yuma County is currently building with his $30 million investment.

“We would like to thank Vice Chairman Lines for his work in securing this important funding.” It has been.”

The network uses technology to enhance conservation efforts and improve yields. “This will provide us with an important tool for water conservation and other challenges we face here in Yuma County,” Lines said.

The funds will be made available through the state administration of the Arizona-allocated Coronavirus State and Local Recovery Funds. The project will not only enhance Yuma County’s largest industry, but also improve access to high-speed internet in rural areas.

“We would like to thank Paul Brierley, executive director of the Yuma Center of Excellence for Desert Agriculture, for his assistance in the research, advocacy, and preparation of the proposals submitted to Governor Ducey’s office,” said Ian, Yuma County Administrator. McGorhy said. “Paul and his YCEDA expertise are invaluable and a large part of the county receiving this important funding.”

“We thank Governor Ducey and the Arizona Department of Commerce for their partnership, and their commitment to partnering with the U of A Agricultural Extension to embark on this new venture and complete our broadband expansion here in Yuma County. Thank you for your trust,” he said.