McKenzie County Farmer - Archive

A recent survey found North Dakotans in “news desert” counties - areas without a local newspaper - feel less connected to their communities and less informed.

The survey, conducted by Coda Ventures as part of the ongoing Future of Local News initiative, had 128 respondents across Dunn, Sioux and Slope counties. The purpose was to explore how the absence of a local newspaper affects civic engagement and community awareness, while gauging potential support for improved local news services.

“Respondents made it clear local news is a vital link to community life,” says Ellen Huber, North Dakota Association of Rural Electric Cooperatives (NDAREC) rural development director. “Strengthening local journalism and local news businesses is foundational to strengthening the well-being of rural communities.”
Residents in the surveyed counties are served by newspapers in neighboring counties, including the Dickinson Press, Carson Press, Teton Times and Bowman County Pioneer, yet research indicates additional opportunities for locally based news sources to create more community connection and improve access to reliable information.

KEY FINDINGS
Awareness and impact of losing local newspapers: Among the 89 percent of residents who were aware their county no longer has a local newspaper, the consequences are tangible:

· 71 percent said they feel less aware of local events and community activities.

· 55 percent feel less informed about local government actions and projects.

· 52 percent feel less connected to their community.

· In Sioux County, more than half of respondents said their community’s economic well-being has declined since losing its local newspaper.

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