Cass County residents raise questions about AI data center growth
Residents in Cass County, North Dakota, attended a public forum to discuss concerns about the growth of AI data centers in the region. Key issues raised included potential impacts on water usage, electricity demand, and the local power grid, as well as the use of agricultural land. The discussion highlighted an existing Applied Digital facility and new proposals from Geronimo Power in Harmony and Durbin Townships.
Residents of Cass County, North Dakota, gathered at Central Cass High School in Casselton for a public forum hosted by North Dakota agriculture commissioner candidate Vern Thompson. The forum aimed to address growing community questions regarding the development of AI data centers in the region, focusing on their potential impact.
The discussion highlighted the significant water and electricity demands of data centers, referencing the Applied Digital facility currently under construction in Harwood. Dustin Burchill, a resident of Harmony Township, informed attendees about a proposal for a new data center. He claimed that Geronimo Power, a Minnesota-based company, is interested in developing in Harmony Township, in addition to Durbin Township, both located within Cass County.
Community members voiced concerns about the strain on current power grids and high water consumption, with Thompson advocating that these questions must be addressed at the state level. While current Agriculture Commissioner Doug Goehring suggested the position has little involvement with data centers, Thompson emphasized that these developments occupy agricultural land. Attendees were encouraged to engage with local legislators and monitor proceedings at the North Dakota Industrial Commission regarding data center policies. Environmental engineer Sandra Larson was also present to address the crowd.