Farmers in Posey County Stand Firm Against Data Center Proposal
POSEY COUNTY, Ind. – If you’ve traveled near Boberg and Hoenert roads, you might have noticed the expansive farmland owned by Dennis Herrenbruck. This property has been in his family since 1849, when his great-great-grandfather purchased it.
At 75 years old, Herrenbruck is on his 57th crop cycle, expressing a deep love for farming. “I’ve never hated what I do,” he said, proudly reflecting on his life’s work.
Together with his son-in-law, Jason Naab, Herrenbruck cultivates vast fields of corn, wheat, and soybeans. “We’ve spent our lives here; it’s all we know,” Naab shared, emphasizing the area’s strong agricultural roots.
Recently, a prominent tech company sought to acquire their land for a new data center. However, Herrenbruck firmly rejected the offer, stating, “There’s not enough money in the world to buy my farmland that’s been here for 175 years.”
Despite their rejection, the company has continued to send surveyors and contractors to the area, leaving the farmers feeling anxious and uncertain about their future. “We don’t feel free anymore,” Naab said. “It feels like we’re not in control of our destiny.”
The farmers are concerned that a data center would threaten their livelihoods. “You can’t grow crops here if it becomes a desert,” Herrenbruck warned, highlighting the potential devaluation of surrounding properties.
Water is another pressing issue, as the county relies on well water that could be depleted by a massive facility. “They’ll take away our ability to grow food for everyone,” Naab added, indicating the broader implications for the community.
Moreover, the farmers worry about the environmental impact of such a development, like increased noise and light pollution, which would disrupt their peaceful way of life. “It’s quiet here. Everyone knows each other,” Herrenbruck noted, emphasizing the close-knit community feel.
Local residents have rallied at County Commission meetings to voice their concerns. “We owe it to our community to stand together,” Naab said.
While Posey County Commissioners are yet to take formal action, they acknowledged having signed a Non-Disclosure Agreement with the tech company. “Join the fight now, because it could affect you next,” Naab warned.
These farmers, along with many others, are urging the commissioners to consider a two-year pause on development plans to protect their land and way of life.
