FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Fraser Valley Community Media Expands FM Signal, Bringing KFFR 88.3FM to More Grand County Communities
Winter Park, CO (October 2024) – Fraser Valley Community Media (FVCM), operating KFFR 88.3FM, is pleased to announce the expansion of its FM signal as part of a broader initiative to reach all of Grand County by the end of 2026. With the acquisition of a new frequency at 89.1FM, KFFR is poised to bring its unique community programming to more towns, including Granby and Grand Lake, further solidifying its presence in the region.
This expansion is the result of years of planning and support from local community leaders, businesses, and listeners. In September 2023, KFFR celebrated its 8th birthday with a highly successful membership drive. During this event, a few dedicated members funded a feasibility study to explore the possibility of extending KFFR’s broadcast reach. The study identified two potential sites, with Granby Ranch emerging as the optimal location for the new signal, thanks to its strategic elevation and support from its owners, Bob and David Glarner.
Partnership with Granby Ranch
A key milestone came in January 2023, when a conversation between FVCM’s Executive Director, Ryan Wilson, and Destination Granby’s Sarah Cichon set the stage for a partnership with Granby Ranch. Granby Ranch has been instrumental in facilitating the project, providing both logistical support and financial backing by splitting the installation costs with FVCM. The site at the top of the Quick Draw Lift will soon host KFFR’s new antenna and transmitter, allowing the station to reach more residents across Grand County.
“We are thrilled to partner with KFFR to help bring community radio to Granby Ranch and beyond,” said Roxanne Hoover, Mountain Manager at Granby Ranch. “This project aligns with our commitment to fostering community connection, and we look forward to hearing KFFR on the air in even more of Grand County.”
Funding and Community Support
In addition to Granby Ranch’s contribution, the ROSH Fund awarded $5,000 in September 2024 to support the acquisition of new equipment, and the Teazey Foundation provided $7,650 following encouragement from local leader Jeremy Krones, Executive Director of the Colorado Headwaters Land Trust.
KFFR’s expansion has also been bolstered by immense community support. The June 2024 membership drive, themed “All Together Now,” raised $28,000 in addition to the drive’s original $12,000 goal. These funds are now being used to support the tower expansion project. In recognition of the overwhelming community involvement, Freeport McMoRan recently contributed $6,250 toward the project, citing the remarkable grassroots efforts behind the initiative.
KWTR 89.1FM at Winter Park Resort
In 2022, FVCM secured a second frequency at 89.1FM. The station will operate under the call sign KWTR, reflecting its identity as a community station at the headwaters of the Colorado River. FVCM has partnered with Winter Park Resort to install KWTR’s transmitter at the Bullfrog Communication Center, an important step in furthering the station’s reach.
“We’re excited to support KWTR as part of our commitment to community,” said Sky Foulkes, CEO of Winter Park Resort. “KFFR plays a vital role in connecting the people of Grand County, and we are proud to be part of that mission.”
Community Event Celebrates Supporters
On September 27, 2024, FVCM hosted a Gold Record Club event, inviting members of the Granby and Grand Lake communities to celebrate the station’s expansion. Speakers included Grand Lake Mayor Steve Kudron, who highlighted the importance of community radio, and local business owner Ed Raegner, who spoke about the long-term benefits KFFR will bring to Granby. The event underscored the growing enthusiasm and support for the station’s expanded broadcast reach.
Looking Ahead
With the installation of new equipment at Granby Ranch set to be completed by the end of 2024, KFFR is on track to continue expanding its service area, bringing local news, music, and public affairs programming to a wider audience. While, there are still a few obstacles to overcome, such as a recent FAA concern, the acquisition of equipment in a timely manner, and installation before the snow is too deep, but FVCM is committed to making this expansion project a reality in 2025, with a goal is to reach the entire county by 2026. FVCM is proud that it is building its infrastructure to provide a platform for community voices, local businesses, and organizations to connect with residents across Grand County.
For more information, or to support KFFR’s expansion efforts, please donate.
