Willie Nelson Urges Communities To Fight Construction Of Data Centers
Willie Nelson has publicly urged American communities to oppose the construction of data centers, arguing they destroy the environment and threaten rural life and small farmers' livelihoods. He specifically cited concerns about water theft, light pollution, and farmland loss, using his hometown of Abbott, Texas, as an example.
Willie Nelson, the 93-year-old country music legend and activist, has issued a public appeal on social media, urging American communities to resist the construction of data centers. Nelson, known for his support of rural farmers through Farm Aid, contended that data centers "only destroy the environment" and are incompatible with the strength of rural America, which he defines by its people, open spaces, local businesses, and connection to the land.
Citing his upbringing in Abbott, Texas, Nelson called on residents there and across the nation to "fight against data centers invading our land." He specifically highlighted concerns about noise, water consumption ("water thieving"), and light pollution associated with these facilities. Nelson concluded by emphasizing the importance of local control over essential resources like food and water, warning against relinquishing them to large industrial footprints.