Coweta Data Center Plans Major River Water Use
- mike33692
- Nov 11
- 2 min read
Coweta Data Center Plans Massive River Water Use
Developers behind a proposed data center in Coweta are seeking access to water from two major Oklahoma rivers. The company planning the project confirmed it intends to use water drawn from both the Verdigris and Arkansas Rivers to support cooling and operational needs for the massive facility.
The plan quickly caught the attention of state and local officials because of the potential size of the project’s water demand. While the exact volume remains undisclosed, sources involved with the development said it would require “very large amounts” of water once fully operational.
Environmental and Infrastructure Impact Questions Grow
Community leaders in Coweta said the city is excited about new investment and job creation, but environmental advocates are raising questions about how the data center’s water use could impact regional river systems. During Oklahoma’s dry seasons, both rivers play essential roles in agriculture, municipal supply, and wildlife support.
Local leaders said no permits have been finalized yet, and environmental impact studies will be required before construction begins. However, residents in both Coweta and surrounding areas along the Verdigris River said they want more transparency about how much water the facility will draw and whether recycling or closed-loop cooling systems will be used.
Second Oklahoma Site Planned in Owasso
The developer behind the Coweta data center also has plans for another large facility in Owasso. Together, the two projects could position northeastern Oklahoma as one of the region’s emerging technology hubs. Both sites are expected to bring construction jobs, infrastructure upgrades, and long-term employment opportunities once operational.
Still, the unanswered questions about water use remain a key concern before ground can be broken in Coweta.