CHARLESTON, W.Va. — In the wake of Hurricane Helene’s destruction in Asheville, North Carolina, local residents turned to Blue Ridge Public Radio for vital updates. As they congregated on a ridge, struggling to find cell service, the radio station became a lifeline, providing crucial information on food and water distribution. Lisa Savage, a volunteer at a local church, noted the station’s role in keeping the community informed during the crisis.
Public radio stations are now facing potential funding cuts following an executive order issued by President Donald Trump. The order seeks to eliminate federal subsidies for NPR and PBS, citing concerns over perceived bias in their reporting. With natural disasters often disrupting power and communication lines, these radio stations have proven to be essential sources of local news, particularly in remote areas.
A week after her voluntary service, Savage recounted listening to updates from Blue Ridge Public Radio while driving through another affected community. Local stations like Marfa Public Radio in West Texas also provide an indispensable mix of local and national news, especially for listeners in isolated areas. Tom Livingston, the interim director of Marfa Public Radio, emphasized its unique coverage that is vital for community safety and awareness.
Trump’s order mandates the Corporation for Public Broadcasting to halt federal funding for NPR and PBS while investigating indirect funding sources. These broadcasters typically receive about $500 million in public funding, which many argue is crucial for their survival. Leadership from PBS, NPR, and CPB have suggested that the order may not hold legal water, hinting at a potential court battle. The administration is also looking to Congress to join its efforts to cut funding as part of a broader package of reductions.
In smaller markets, public radio stations rely heavily on a mix of government funding, listener donations, and grants. For instance, WMMT, located in the Appalachian region of eastern Kentucky, serves parts of five states and depends on CPB funding to operate. General Manager Teddy Wimer noted that his station appeals to a local audience eager for programming that resonates with their community, but many listeners may lack the means to provide financial support.
Further north along the West Virginia-Virginia border, Allegheny Mountain Radio serves a pivotal role in its local community. General Manager Scott Smith remarked that while faraway stations can be received, they lack the localized touch crucial during emergencies. During the 2012 derecho that left thousands without power, residents relied on the station for essential updates.
Smith’s operation, which receives nearly 70% of its funding from CPB, faces uncertain times. He described potential budget cuts as a significant threat, as replacing that level of financial support would be challenging. As the situation evolves, he emphasized the importance of community support, stating, “We’ll continue to be here as long as we can be.”
For many listeners in economically disadvantaged areas, public radio is not just entertainment but a vital source of information during emergencies. As discussions about funding cuts continue, the fate of these local stations remains precarious, with their critical role in disaster response and community cohesion hanging in the balance.