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Development of broadband infrastructure and increased access for high-speed internet is a priority issue for Ohio Farm Bureau. Our farmers rely on it for precision agriculture technology and information about their farms. As farmers are constantly being called upon to help solve Ohio’s water quality issues, it is imperative for them to have the technology they need to utilize conservation practices. In addition to best management practices, farmers need the internet to comply with many state and federal regulations as most agencies have transitioned to electronic filing.

Whether it be for education, business, health care or entertainment, our need for reliable internet access is very important. With new broadband access comes increased economic and educational opportunities and development. Without it, Ohioans in these unserved and underserved areas will continue to fall behind. According to a study by The Ohio State University, 1 million Ohioans —11.7% of its residents — are unserved or underserved by reliable, high-speed internet simply because of where they live.

As a member of the Ashtabula County Broadband Taskforce,  we are asking for your input on the Eastgate Regional Council of Governments’ regional broadband study. Your feedback will help the project team better understand the specific broadband needs in the region and will guide recommendations for future broadband investment.  It is recommended you have a copy of your internet bill available during the survey, if applicable.

The survey is part of a larger feasibility study to prepare for the expansion and enhancement of broadband internet service across Ashtabula, Trumbull, and Mahoning counties. The study is scheduled to be completed by early summer.

We want to hear from those without reliable internet service as well. The attached surveys may be printed and filled out by hand.

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Completed surveys should be returned to Eastgate at 100 East Federal Street, Suite 1000, Youngstown, OH 44503, or via email at [email protected]. We request that surveys be completed and returned by March 31 at the latest.

 Any questions on the broadband feasibility study can be directed to Organization Director, Mandy Orahood at [email protected] or Emily Phillis at [email protected]

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