9/2/1/26

To Whom it may concern:

From: Phillip Reemtsma, D.V.M

Re: Data Centers- Impact on Livestock

My name is Phil Reemtsma and I am a livestock Veterinarian in Eastern Iowa. I have 28 years of experience working with cattle as a Veterinarian. I would like to discuss the potential impact a Data Center may have on cattle in regards to health, well being and productivity.

I think the most impactful harm that can come to livestock, especially cattle, could be from the constant noise emitted from a data center. Of the 4 primary senses of cattle, (sight, smell, hearing, and touch) hearing is the most sensitive of the 4. Constant noise (humming) has the potential to create chronic stress in livestock. Chronic stress from noise can elevate heart rate and increase anxiety in livestock. Chronic stress can also increase cortisol levels in livestock which in turn suppresses immunity. Suppressing immunity can lead to an increase in incidence of disease and decreased productivity.

There have been several studies done on constant noise over the years in livestock. I would refer you to work done in the 1980's by Heffner and Heffner for more information. In addition, I would refer you to a more recent article "The Role of Sound in Livestock Farming", published by the National Library of Medicine, July 14, 2023.

I will acknowledge more research needs to be done, especially concerning data centers and the effect of noise generated by them, however, I believe it also makes more sense to locate them in areas where they will have the least amount of potential impact on humans and animals until we have more information.

Phillip Reemtsma, D.V.M.

DeWitt, Iowa