Ditch Witch ride-on trenchers work through challenging conditions to connect rural communities

In the emerald embrace of Northwest Wisconsin, where cathedral pines stretch to the sky, a silent transformation stirs beneath the earth. Families from Wisconsin, Illinois, and Minnesota retreat to this haven, drawn to the serene lakes and cozy cabins, seeking the unique hush that only the Northwoods of Wisconsin can offer. 

Here, time unwinds like a spool of fishing line cast into still waters. It is a place where life is remembered, revived, and revered. And yet, beneath its tranquil veneer, an undercurrent of change runs deep. Light is threading through the region's veins: a fibre broadband network illuminating its digital future.

Mosaic Technologies, a staple in the community for decades, is weaving a new lifeline with fibre broadband. This initiative transcends a mere infrastructure upgrade, delivering speed and opportunity to rural communities. It breathes economic vitality and sparks connectivity, invigorating classrooms, bringing doctors to doorsteps, anchoring creatives and entrepreneurs to global networks, and opens new markets for local businesses. It's the electricity of possibility, igniting where dial-up shadows once lingered.

An ambitious endeavor 

As the Northwoods stands poised on the brink of transformation, Mosaic Technologies has embarked on an ambitious mission to deploy over 385 miles of mainline fibre to 2,573 addresses across four counties.

In spring 2024, as frost clung to pine needles, the Wisconsin Public Service Commission (PSC) announced funding to reshape the digital landscape of rural Wisconsin. Mosaic Technologies stood out among the recipients, securing six broadband infrastructure grants totalling $12.6 million. 

With project costs nearing $27 million, Mosaic Technologies pledged the remaining funds from its own reserves, investing boldly in a future where no community is left buffering in the dark. The challenge was time-sensitive, with a three-year window to fulfill this vision. This meant, every month counted, and every mile of fibre laid signaled progress toward connectivity equity.

With 45 skilled operators forming teams of five to six, the dedication of the workforce was as vital as the technology driving the mission. To meet the challenge, Mosaic Technologies relied on the Ditch Witch RT125 Quad ride-on trencher. Far more than just equipment, it became a trusted ally in the field.

"To complete a project of this calibre, we knew reliable equipment wasn't just a preference, but a necessity," says Lynn Bender, general manager of MTECH Construction (a subsidiary of Mosaic Technologies). "That's why we have the RT125 Quads in our arsenal. Their dependability and ability to tackle any ground condition have kept us on track, even when the weather and terrain were against us."

The rugged dependability of the equipment empowered Bender and his team to turn ambition into action, where success was measured by reliability and performance.

Fraught with challenging ground conditions 

As diverse as the natural splendor, so too, are its challenges. Its breathtaking beauty is matched only by the unpredictable ground conditions, presenting formidable obstacles for infrastructure endeavors. From frozen, wet, and muddy in early spring to the hardened surfaces of summer, the terrain transforms dramatically. In Wisconsin, where the weather can change in an instant, adaptable and reliable equipment is essential.

"We had a warm spring last year," remarks Bender, "which left us with standing water everywhere. The RT125 Quad helped us stay on track, allowing us to offset and keep working despite the conditions."

This is where the steadfast performance of Ditch Witch RT125 Quad ride-on trencher becomes indispensable. The RT125 Quad's design allows for minimal ground disturbance, making it ideal for the varied landscapes of the area. The trencher's robust shakers outperform static plows, enabling Mosaic Technologies to meet and exceed their goal of laying one mile of fibre a day. 

"Recently, we surpassed our goal by completing a mile and a half in a single day," Bender adds. "In a project where every moment counts, this efficiency is not just beneficial but essential." 

Collaborative partnerships propel progress

However, it's not just the equipment that has made a significant impact, support from Ditch Witch dealers has been as crucial as the fibre itself. 

"While robust equipment is key," says Bender, "it's the unwavering support and collaborative partnerships from Ditch Witch of Minnesota that propels our progress." 

With the consistent support of Ditch Witch of Minnesota, Mosaic Technologies has successfully reduced downtime, allowing them to consistently stay ahead of schedule. Utilizing Ditch Witch's Orange Intel Fleet Management system, Mosaic Technologies gains access to real-time GPS tracking and daily production updates, which helps to streamline operations and boost efficiency. This technology also simplifies reporting to government agencies, ensuring compliance and project transparency. 

Additionally, the dealership assists Mosaic Technologies in adhering to the project's timeline. By implementing proactive strategies, such as sending alerts for major issues, technicians can quickly address problems as they emerge.

"Ditch Witch's dealer support has been phenomenal," notes Bender. "Their technicians are readily available and just a call away, helping our machines stay up and running. This level of support has been crucial in keeping us on track." 

The dealership's dedication goes beyond mere technical support, offering Mosaic Technologies annual on-site training sessions and detailed user manuals. By delivering more than just equipment, Ditch Witch of Minnesota forms a partnership that drives progress and innovation. This collaboration equipped Mosaic Technologies with the necessary resources and support to help connect the unconnected.

Preparing the next generation for success

As Mosaic Technologies lays the groundwork for a connected future, the company is investing in the workforce of tomorrow. Through internships and certification programs, they equip young professionals with the essential skills to excel in the telecommunications industry. By partnering with local technological colleges and association support from Power & Communication Contractors Association, Mosaic Technologies ensures their workforce is both well-prepared and certified, setting a benchmark for excellence in the region.

"Our commitment to community and workforce development underscores our dedication to the Northwoods and this project," says Bender. "We are not just constructing a network but cultivating a legacy of connectivity and opportunity for future generations."

Mosaic Technologies reaches significant milestones

As Mosaic Technologies advances toward their vision of a connected future, they have reached significant milestones in boosting regional connectivity. The company has successfully closed out two of the six grants and is working to complete the remaining four this year, totalling over 480 miles. These initiatives span various areas, navigating road bands, permits, and township regulations, with half of one project already completed. 

Mosaic Technologies has been awarded two additional Community Connect grants, further underscoring its commitment to expanding the region's fibre infrastructure. This marks a historical milestone as the company participates in what could be described as a final nationwide expansion of telecommunications infrastructure. This makes connecting rural communities to reliable broadband cable more crucial than ever.  

Powering communities

By extending fibre to underserved areas, the company is not only enhancing connectivity but also fostering growth and opportunity throughout the region. With the support of Ditch Witch, Mosaic Technologies is transforming the Northwoods into a beacon of connectivity, ensuring it remains vibrant and poised for future success.

"We're not just bringing fibre to the homes; we're connecting lives," says Bender. "What we do matters to the communities we serve." 

This technological leap transcends simple infrastructure, acting as a bridge that closes the gap between isolation and connection. Mosaic Technologies embodies the spirit of progress, enriching communities while honouring their roots. Each mile of fibre implemented is a narrative of dedicated hands, innovative equipment, and a shared commitment to rewriting the future of rural Wisconsin, with fibre-optics as the ink.