$50,000 Grant Kickstarts Community Radio Infrastructure Project in Siskiyou

A multi-organization initiative will create a network of locally controlled FM radio stations for emergency preparedness and creative media content.

Yreka, CA — November 17, 2025— The Siskiyou Media Council and Siskiyou County Arts Council announce the Community Foundation of the North State has awarded $50,000 to support RadioSisQ, a coalition of 12 new Low-Power FM radio licensees located in or serving Siskiyou County. A grant from the North State Wildfire Recovery Fund, which supports long-term recovery and resilience, will secure the necessary equipment to begin broadcast for selected coalition stations. Initiated in 2023, RadioSisQ was developed in response to communication challenges exacerbated during emergency events including media outlet accessibility, cellular and internet network coverage, power utility reliability, and local control of public emergency communication information. 

The 12-station Low Power FM (LPFM) network includes organizations in and stations that will serve Dunsmuir, McCloud, Mount Shasta, Weed, Yreka, Hornbrook, Tulelake, Dorris, Happy Camp, Seiad Valley, Forks of Salmon, and Orleans (Humboldt County). LPFM stations are noncommercial stations restricted to smaller broadcast ranges and with educational content requirements. 

“This investment gives us the real opportunity to add to a cohesive communications system for Siskiyou,” said David McAdams, Executive Director of the Siskiyou Media Council. “Local, low power radio is one of the most reliable tools for effective mass communications during emergency events. This grant is a phenomenal beginning to our plan to build and support communications infrastructure in Siskiyou.”   

The LPFM stations will provide an additional outlet for local creatives to share their work and for community members to hear from the people they live alongside says Siskiyou County Arts Council Executive Director, Patricia Lord. “The LPFM stations are as much about emergency resilience as they are creativity and community connection. Hearing your neighbor’s voice through the airwaves might be the first step to becoming civically engaged or making an emotional connection to your community when you feel isolated. You may discover new insights about where you live, hear someone speaking a language you are trying to learn, or enjoy listening to a high school basketball game while you drive home from work. We are excited to create a common space for Siskiyou and grateful for the funding assistance to support this project.”

Development of the full RadioSisQ network will continue through 2027, with more stations commencing broadcast as funding is received. Content solicitations, station information, and inaugural broadcast information will be shared through the Siskiyou Media Council’s website and social media pages.