This webinar focused on statewide strategies to promote broadband adoption and use in rural communities.  Speakers highlighted the role of state governments, libraries and university extension programs in planning and executing these strategies. The speakers also discussed the role of broadband adoption in rural economic and workforce development, as well as approaches to facilitate broadband use and improve digital skills.

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Smart agriculture engages technologies such as Big Data, GPS, IoT and connected devices to help farmers and ranchers better manage their production. Using these technologies, farmers and ranchers can improve water efficiency, produce higher quality crops and raise healthier livestock. Reliable and robust rural connectivity are fundamental to helping farmers gain benefits from new technologies.

Digital technologies impact all sectors of the economy including agriculture, small town main streets, and regional economic development.  Yet 31% of rural Americans still lack access to fixed terrestrial broadband speeds of 25 Mbps down and 3 Mbps up. Increased interest in broadband is creating new opportunities leading service providers and civic leaders to find new models to expand rural broadband.  We will explore three successful case studies and highlight best practices for successful rural broadband deployments.

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BroadbandUSA’s Practical Conversations have showcased how cities and communities are using technology to solve local issues. Now, join us for the April webinar to find out how states are using smart technology and policy to enhance economic development and quality of life for their urban, suburban and rural communities.

This webinar focuses on the key factors to consider when planning and deploying a public Wi-Fi network and how it will enhance smart city efforts. Speakers highlighted the information needed in order to make informed decisions concerning the implementation of the network, potential partnership and funding options, and technical aspects. The speakers participated in the Global Cities Public Wi-Fi Blueprint development.

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Cross-posted with U.S. Department of Commerce Blog

Photograph: Alexandria (Va.) Fire Captain Phil Perry uses a mobile device while on board a fire boat on the Potomac River. The First Responder Network Authority is modernizing public safety communications infrastructure to provide fire, EMS, law enforcement and other public safety personnel enhanced data communications via wireless broadband services.

Cross-posting with U.S. Department of Commerce Blog

by John B. Morris, Jr., Associate Administrator, Office of Policy Analysis and Development

NTIA relies on sound data to understand the state of communications and information use in the United States, and to develop policies that promote robust broadband services across the country. Since 1994, NTIA has been collecting data on broadband adoption and usage in the United States. Our work has been complemented in recent years by the Federal Communications Commission’s Form 477 data program.