Officials discuss effect of data centers at conference in New Orleans
Local leaders from Iberville Parish, Louisiana, attended a national conference in New Orleans to discuss the potential impacts of data centers, including concerns over high-frequency noise affecting animals and strain on local water supplies. Officials aim to develop proactive ordinances to regulate future data center developments and protect their communities.
Local leaders from Iberville Parish, Louisiana, recently attended the 2026 NaCO Conference in New Orleans to discuss the implications of large data center developments. The discussions focused on potential negative impacts such as high-frequency noise, which Deputy Chief Operating Officer Kyle Grace highlighted as a concern for livestock and pets, despite being inaudible to humans. Water supply strain from underground tunneling required for data center operations also emerged as a significant issue, particularly for areas not adjacent to major waterways.
Officials are seeking a proactive approach to developing local ordinances. Grace emphasized the need for Iberville Parish to establish clear rules and regulations to protect landowners and residents before data center developers approach the parish. He cited the Meta facility under construction in Richland Parish, which has brought economic benefits, as an example of the industry's growth and the need for preparedness.