About Us

KOTO Community Radio is the heartbeat of Telluride, Colorado, delivering high-quality, commercial-free programming to the San Juan Mountains since 1975. Our mission is to inform, educate, and entertain while reflecting the unique spirit and diversity of our vibrant community. With an eclectic mix of music, local news, and cultural programming, KOTO is powered by passionate volunteers who embrace the free and independent spirit of Telluride. As one of the last truly non-underwritten radio stations, we stand as a proud testament to the power of grassroots media.

A group of people posing happily outdoors on a street. They are dressed in casual, colorful attire, with some wearing hats. In the background, there are trees, houses, and mountains under a clear sky.

Meet Our Team

Our History

KOTO was founded in 1975 by visionaries Jerry Greene & Jim Bedford, starting as a humble 10-watt transmitter perched atop the Miners Union building. Initially, our reach barely extended to Society Turn, but through the dedication and support of our community, we’ve grown into a station that spans the entire San Juan region. Over the decades, KOTO has remained steadfast in its grassroots approach, staying true to its origins while evolving to meet the needs of our listeners. Today, we continue to honor our legacy by championing free, independent radio that amplifies the voices and stories of Telluride.

A detailed black and white sketch of a two-story wooden house with a slanted roof and antennas. A bicycle rests against the front. The door displays Kotto with a decorative wheel above. Trash cans sit beside the house.

Looking to volunteer or support KOTO?

Volunteer Opportunities

Join the heart of KOTO by becoming a volunteer! Whether you want to share your favorite tunes as a DJ, help behind the scenes, or lend a hand at community events, there’s a role for everyone. Volunteering at KOTO is a fun and rewarding way to connect with others and make a meaningful impact on Telluride’s independent radio station. Sign up today and be part of something extraordinary!

Make a Donation

KOTO is called “Community Radio” for a reason. Our core mission is to entertain, educate, and inform while reflecting the needs, desires, and diversity of the community. KOTO serves as a forum for community debate, public discourse, education and cultural exchange.