Grand Junction–Montrose, Colorado Media Landscape Overview

This Western Slope DMA spans energy, outdoor recreation, healthcare, and tourism. Broadcasters emphasize wildfire smoke, winter storms, road conditions, and public services for OTA, cable, and CTV audiences.

Media Ownership & Regulation

Network affiliates and subchannels operate with Rocky Mountain PBS and public radio; EAS partners coordinate for wildfires, avalanches, floods, and extreme heat/cold.

FCC translators serve canyons and mountain valleys; campuses and civic groups collaborate on public‑service and educational programming.

Digital Transformation & Connectivity

Simulcasts on apps/YouTube and FAST extend reach; push alerts and SMS support closures and travel advisories.

Broadband projects expand access; libraries and schools bolster media literacy and device lending.

Leading Television Channels

• ABC/CBS/NBC/FOX affiliates: Local news, weather, investigations, and sports.
• Rocky Mountain PBS: Educational/cultural programming.
• The CW/MyNetworkTV: Syndicated entertainment and features.
• Spanish‑language (regional): News and variety.
• Ion/MeTV (subs): Procedurals/classic TV.
• Weather subchannels: Continuous forecasts and radar.
• Local access: Public meetings and community programs.

Major Radio Broadcasting Networks

• NPR member stations: News/talk and statewide reporting.
• All‑news/Traffic/Weather: Commute and alerts.
• Country: Local hosts and promotions.
• Top 40/CHR: Contemporary hits.
• Adult Contemporary: Workplace playlists.
• Classic Rock: Catalog programming.
• Sports: Talk and play‑by‑play.
• Faith/Inspirational: Religious programming.
• Spanish‑language (regional): Music and outreach.
• Public safety/NOAA: Weather and emergency bulletins.

Media Consumption Patterns & Audience Behavior

Digital Engagement

CTV and social video extend reach; push alerts support snow and canyon road closures, smoke/air‑quality, and school schedules.

Agencies and campuses use Facebook/Instagram/YouTube for advisories and events.

Traditional Habits

OTA TV and radio remain essential for wildfire and winter coverage; drive‑time radio sustains commuters and visitors.

Public media and weeklies provide hyperlocal reporting across mountain towns and valleys.

Market Metrics & Industry Statistics

Media Trust & Consumer Preferences

Trust Landscape

Meteorology, investigative units, and public media explainers rate highly; clear, accessible updates broaden reach.

Transparency and community engagement strengthen trust during wildfires and storms.

Audience Preferences

Weather, outdoor recreation, public lands, and community services perform well; short‑form advisories drive engagement.

Streaming replays and newsletters complement linear schedules.

Sources

• https://www.rmpbs.org/
• https://www.nielsen.com/us/en/insights/report/2025/the-gauge-may-2025/
• https://www.fcc.gov/media/television/broadcast-ownership