Brevard Frequency Update!

Last fall, the translator that WCQS operates in Brevard began receiving heavy interference from a new station that went on the air in Cokesbury, SC.  Since translators do not have the same protected status as primary transmitters, WCQS was forced to find a new frequency for its service in Brevard. 

Studies indicated that an alternate frequency, 105.1, was clear throughout the community and its surrounding area.  WCQS filed an application with the Federal Communications Commission to change to that new frequency, and authorization is expected to be granted in the next few weeks. 

The WCQS translator has been located on Rich Mountain, southeast of Brevard, for several years.  The new operation will remain at that location, and will have the same power directed at the Brevard area, but will have increased power to residents who live along US 276, east of Brevard. 

WCQS Executive Director Jody Evans said, “I know this has been a frustrating situation for our listeners in Brevard and Transylvania County.  Our engineering team has been working non-stop to correct the situation. We’ve done all we can and now we have to wait for the Federal Communications Commission to approve our application for a change in frequency.”

WCQS values the support of listeners in the Brevard area, and is anxious for these changes to take effect.  WCQS broadcasts NPR news and information programs and classical music during the day, with the BBC World Service overnight.  The station serves listeners throughout Western North Carolina with three primary stations and eight translators located in mountain communities.