We, the undersigned residents, neighbors, and stewards of Frederick County, Virginia, stand united in opposition to the future development of industrial-scale data centers in our rural communities.

While we support responsible economic growth, we strongly believe that placing massive data centers in agricultural and residential areas threatens the very identity, sustainability, and well-being of our region.

Data centers demand enormous quantities of electricity and water, resources already under pressure. Their operations can place significant strain on the local power grid and water table, raising utility costs for residents and potentially depleting or contaminating private wells and community water supplies. These facilities often run 24/7, generating noise, heat, and industrial traffic incompatible with the peaceful rural life that defines Frederick County.

Worse, the rezoning of farmland for tech infrastructure sets a dangerous precedent—once open farmland is developed, the change is permanent. With that comes the loss of heritage, wildlife habitats, scenic viewsheds, and the agritourism and farming economy that sustain our community.

Instead of industrial-scale data centers, we support development that:

• Protects and enhances our rural character
• Expands agri-tourism opportunities such as:
  • Wineries and cideries
  • Orchards and pick-your-own farms
  • Farm-to-table dining experiences
  • Seasonal festivals and farmers markets
• Supports local entrepreneurs and small businesses
• Encourages sustainable and conservation-focused agriculture
• Promotes eco-tourism including hiking trails, nature preserves, and wildlife education
• Fosters community spaces and educational initiatives like outdoor classrooms, historical tours, or agricultural training programs
• Maintains the health of our land, water, and air for future generations

We urge all Frederick County residents to stand with our local farmers. These hardworking families not only feed our community, but also protect the open space, clean air, and scenic beauty that make our county special. By saying no to industrial development on farmland and choosing to support local agriculture at markets, roadside stands, and community events, we can preserve the rural way of life we all value. Let’s invest in a future that keeps our farms growing and our land thriving.

We urge county leaders and planners to:

• Uphold the comprehensive plan’s vision for rural preservation,
  Reject rezoning proposals that support industrial-scale data centers in agricultural zones,
• Protect our water, air, and land from irreversible harm,
  And prioritize alternative development strategies that preserve Frederick County’s unique rural character.

Join us in saying yes to farms, forests, and families, and no to server farms.