A recent on-air discussion has sparked debate after a commentator suggested Americans should consider purchasing artificial Christmas trees to free up farmland for data centers as the digital economy continues to expand.
During a broadcast segment about infrastructure development and land use, the conversation turned to the practical realities of accommodating growing data center needs across the country. One speaker outlined the scope of land requirements, noting that facilities can span significant acreage.
“So if this farm is 150 acres, yeah they’re going to be farms, and there will be transmission lines that have to go through developments, and farms that’s the very nature of a growing economy, like that everybody needs to get on board,” the commentator explained, describing the infrastructure challenges facing communities.
The conversation took an unexpected turn when the solution of artificial trees was proposed as a way to reconcile agricultural land use with technological expansion. “I just don’t… you know what, buy a fake tree,” came the suggestion, prompting an immediate reaction from another host.
“Oh oh digger right in my heart,” the co-host replied. The commentator went on to defend herself, saying, “What? I have a fake tree. I know I can’t afford the tree.”
Data centers, which house the servers and equipment necessary for cloud computing, streaming services, and internet operations, require vast amounts of space and reliable power connections.
Christmas tree farming represents a significant agricultural sector in the United States, with farms scattered across numerous states providing both seasonal employment and a cherished holiday tradition for families who prefer cutting their own fresh trees. The suggestion that such farms might need to give way to technology infrastructure has touched a nerve among those who value these customs.