21 Comments
User's avatar
Cheryl Dahlquist's avatar

Thank you for this education and for your efforts to source and describe multiple projects across the state of Iowa. Well done..

Expand full comment
Cheryl Tevis's avatar

Thank you, Cheryl. I appreciate your encouragement!

Expand full comment
John Schmidt's avatar

I have wondered how many Bitcoin mining establishments had been located in Iowa, so I appreciate this information. I expect the Trump Administration to block federal and state regulation of cryptocurrency in the near future, which will encourage more mining.

Expand full comment
Cheryl Tevis's avatar

Hi, John. This may not be exhaustive list, but it's a good start. I am afraid that you are correct about what the future may hold. Thank you!

Expand full comment
Rosanne Lienhard Plante's avatar

As a democratic candidate for Iowa House District 13, I was asked to speak against the bitcoin permit in Woodbury County in September. I stressed that if let in, the mine had no laws to regulate its output or possible abuse of the county and the residents. After my presentation the application was voted down. It is crucial that elected officials know what the people want--they have to live with the results.

I was not elected, but people still need a voice. I am still available to help as a Citizen Advocate.

Expand full comment
Cheryl Tevis's avatar

Hello, Rosanne, I listened and took notes on your presentation at the Board of Adjustment hearing. Thank you so much! I'm sorry that you weren't elected this time, but your voice is much-needed!

Expand full comment
Julie Gammack's avatar

This is so informative, Cheryl! Thank you!

Expand full comment
Cheryl Tevis's avatar

I appreciate your encouragement, Julie! Thank you!

Expand full comment
Chris Henning's avatar

If it’s not one boondoggle, it’s another — all out in the open “wild” of our most rural Iowa!

Expand full comment
Cheryl Tevis's avatar

It seems that way, doesn't it, Chris? It's hard to keep up, especially without much newspaper or radio coverage of these dubious new entries into our neighborhoods.

Expand full comment
Josiah Wearin's avatar

Great research. Thank you!!

Meanwhile our legislators have been silent, I suspect. Not to mention the Governor.

Expand full comment
Cheryl Tevis's avatar

Thanks so much! Yes, it makes me anxious. Just because we haven't heard about it doesn't mean that we won't see legislation. We have learned this before, haven't we?

Expand full comment
Robert Leonard's avatar

Bitcoin's impact on rural America. Read it and weep.

Expand full comment
Cheryl Tevis's avatar

Thanks, Bob!

Expand full comment
Denise OBrien's avatar

I had no idea! I’m blown away by your investigation into this Cheryl. Thank you for making me aware of something I have brushed off as not effecting me therefore I needn’t pay attention. I was so wrong. Another red flag for rural exploitation.

Expand full comment
Cheryl Tevis's avatar

Thanks, Denise. Sorry to add to your worry list! But it is an issue that is flying beneath the radar. Although the Crypto mines may offer some property tax benefits, I am more concerned about the potential losses to individual investors, and the questions of the redeeming value (and possible threat) of cryptocurrency to the U.S.

Expand full comment
Ralph Rosenberg's avatar

Thank you. I am curious if bitmining became a campaign discussion in Iowa for local or legislative races. The power of crypto lobbyists and PACS, including what happened to Sherrod Brown, leads me to conclude bitmining is not a neutral, confusing investment scheme. It is as harmful to our society as allowing eminent domain for private profit.

Expand full comment
Cheryl Tevis's avatar

Ralph, I did not hear any discussion about it. My perception is that these mines are being approved under the radar, and few Iowans are aware of the broader issues (or even the nuisance-related consequences). Thanks!

Expand full comment
Sean Boston's avatar

I really liked reading this. I think I was particularly enthralled by the exposition at the beginning and the down-homeyness of it. Really brought me into the story.

Expand full comment
Cheryl Tevis's avatar

Thanks so much, Sean! As you no doubt realize, it's difficult to know whether something you've written would be effective and resonate with readers. I appreciate your encouragement!

Expand full comment
Julie Gammack's avatar

Once again, you've provided readers with important. local information! Thank you!

Expand full comment