Strong local outlets do more than report the news.
They help neighbors stay connected, hold leaders accountable, support thriving businesses, and help Montanans make sense of what’s happening close to home.
What we’re seeing in Montana
Montana’s news ecosystem is shaped by our rural geography, small population, and limited media infrastructure. In our 56 counties, just eight produce half of all local news, while 21 account for less than 10 percent. As a result, many communities lack consistent, trusted sources of local information.
Many news organizations across Montana are deeply committed to their communities, but they’re doing that work with limited resources and need steady support to keep going.
Research to Support a Better-Informed Montana
We support and share research that sheds light on Montana’s local news landscape and how local information systems can be strengthened.
We’ll continue adding resources as this work grows.
Montana’s Media Landscape
Local news outlets play an important role in small-town life. Research from LOR Foundation maps local news creators across Montana and explores the factors shaping the state’s media landscape.
Montana’s News Coverage
LOR Foundation research analyzed more than 26,000 stories from 191 Montana outlets to map where local news coverage exists and where gaps remain, highlighting how access to local news supports strong communities.