Electromagnetic interference with navigation aids, radar, and communications.
Stormwater ponds attracting wildlife/birds near runways (FAA AC 150/5200-33 wildlife hazard guidance).
Potential effects on aerial events and transient traffic — Fourth of July displays and flyovers, NATA, and the heavy general-aviation traffic transiting the region for EAA AirVenture Oshkosh.
6. Noise
Continuous, 24/7 low-frequency hum from cooling fans and chillers — a leading complaint in communities near existing facilities (e.g., Chandler, AZ; Loudoun County, VA).
Periodic testing of banks of diesel backup generators, often exceeding 90 dB nearby.
Tonal noise that is more disturbing than broadband noise at the same measured level.
Standards must include C-weighted (dBC) limits in addition to A-weighted limits, because A-weighting understates the low-frequency noise data centers produce.
Enforceable standards measured at the property line or road right-of-way against a pre-construction background (L90) baseline, with absolute limits and penalties for tonal noise.
7. Air Quality, Dust, and Emissions
Diesel backup generator fleets — sometimes dozens to hundreds of engines — emitting NOx, particulate matter, and CO2 during testing and outages.
Dust control requirements during construction and operation, enforceable on unpaved surfaces and material handling.
Carbon emission restrictions or reporting requirements for on-site generation.
On-site fuel storage in large quantities, with spill and fire risk.
Cooling tower drift releasing water-treatment chemicals into the air.
8. Fire, Safety, and Hazardous Materials
Lithium-ion battery energy storage systems with thermal-runaway fire risk exceeding rural fire department capabilities.
Large diesel fuel storage and refrigerant inventories requiring hazmat response capacity.
Burden on volunteer or small-town fire and EMS services without compensating funding or training.
Emergency response plans must be required, developed in coordination with local fire and EMS, and regularly inspected and updated.
9. Lighting, Visual, and Character Impacts
Massive warehouse-scale buildings out of scale with rural landscapes.
Security lighting and light pollution affecting neighbors and the night sky.
Visual pollution and loss of rural character, scenic views, and quality of life that drew residents to the area.
Protection of views along designated state and national scenic byways (e.g., the Great River Road) from data center development.
Perimeter fencing, guard structures, and industrial appearance incompatible with surrounding uses.
10. Traffic and Infrastructure