Temple rancher worries data center construction threatens family farm dating back to 1870s

Alton Fowler, a ranch manager at Fowler Farms in Temple, Texas, expressed grave concerns that a $700 million data center project by Rowan Digital Infrastructure, currently under construction within five miles of his property, could force an end to his family's multi-generational farming operation. Fowler, who raises commercial cattle and registered boar goats on 225 acres, fears that constant low-frequency noise from the data center will disrupt animal breeding and cause health issues for his livestock. He also highlighted the significant water consumption of hyperscale data centers, estimating up to 2.5 million gallons per day, which he believes will negatively impact local farms and residents.

Fowler indicated that the data center project has already begun affecting his land, with C&C Land Services, LLC developing a temporary parking lot for the project near his property line. He worries about further encroachment and the depreciation of land values, stating he is "between a rock and a hard place" as he cannot operate the farm with the data center present and struggles to sell the devalued land. Despite an inquiry about selling his land, Fowler stated his intention to fight to preserve his family's livelihood.

The rancher recently testified before the Texas House Committee on Natural Resources in Austin, which is examining statewide data center water use and transparency. State Rep. Trent Ashley criticized the low survey response rate from data center operators regarding their water usage, suggesting a lack of transparency within the industry. Fowler, however, felt that the voices of Texans, including himself, were not adequately heard during the hearing, as public testimony was delayed until late in the evening after most industry representatives had already spoken.