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Forum Communications Acquires Seven Rural Newspapers

  //health-fitness.news-articles.net/content/2026/ .. munications-acquires-seven-rural-newspapers.html
  Published in Health and Fitness on Wednesday, February 4th 2026 at 4:11 GMT by inforum
      Locales: North Dakota, Wisconsin, Iowa, Minnesota, UNITED STATES

FARGO, ND - February 4th, 2026 - Forum Communications Company, Inc. today announced the successful acquisition of seven newspapers across Minnesota and North Dakota, solidifying its position as a leading provider of local news in the Upper Midwest. The purchased publications - the Devils Lake Journal, Pembina County Courier, and The McKenzie County Reporter in North Dakota, alongside the Wadena Pioneer Journal, Norman County Pioneer, Fergus Falls Journal, and Lincoln County Star in Minnesota - represent a significant expansion of Forum Communications' reach into vital, yet often underserved, rural communities.

This acquisition arrives at a crucial moment for local journalism. Over the past decade, the industry has faced unprecedented challenges, including declining advertising revenue, the rise of digital news consumption, and the proliferation of misinformation. Many rural newspapers have struggled to survive, leading to "news deserts" where communities lack access to reliable, locally-focused information. Forum Communications' move is being seen by industry analysts as a counter-trend - a proactive investment in preserving the critical role of local news.

The seven newspapers included in the deal are primarily weekly or semi-weekly publications, serving populations in smaller towns and agricultural areas. These publications traditionally act as the central source of information for local events, government meetings, school activities, and community announcements. They connect residents, foster civic engagement, and provide a vital record of local life. The Devils Lake Journal, for example, is a cornerstone of news for the Devils Lake community and surrounding Lake Region of North Dakota, covering everything from fishing reports to city council debates. Similarly, the Pembina County Courier serves the unique needs of a border county with a strong agricultural heritage. The McKenzie County Reporter provides crucial coverage of the oil and gas industry's impact on western North Dakota, alongside local events.

In Minnesota, the Wadena Pioneer Journal, Norman County Pioneer, Fergus Falls Journal, and Lincoln County Star each cater to distinct rural demographics and economies. These publications focus on topics relevant to their respective communities, ranging from farming and agriculture to local sports and school happenings. The Fergus Falls Journal, being located in a slightly larger town, often features more in-depth investigative reporting on regional issues, while the Lincoln County Star focuses intensely on hyperlocal news and community profiles.

Forum Communications has a long history of owning and operating media outlets across the Dakotas, Minnesota, and Wisconsin. The company already boasts a strong portfolio including The Forum of Fargo-Moorhead, The Grand Forks Herald, and numerous radio stations. This latest acquisition is a natural extension of their existing strategy of building a robust network of local news providers.

While the immediate financial terms of the acquisition remain undisclosed, industry experts estimate the deal to be valued at several million dollars. More importantly, the long-term implications for the sustainability of local journalism are considered far more significant. The immediate question now revolves around how Forum Communications will integrate these new publications into its existing operations.

Sources within Forum Communications indicate that the company intends to maintain the individual identities and editorial independence of the acquired newspapers, at least initially. However, there are plans to leverage Forum's existing resources - including its digital platforms, advertising sales teams, and content sharing network - to enhance the reach and impact of these local publications. Expect to see increased investment in digital infrastructure, including website upgrades, social media engagement, and the development of mobile apps.

"We recognize the vital role these newspapers play in their communities," stated a Forum Communications spokesperson. "Our goal is to build on their strengths and ensure they continue to thrive for years to come. We're committed to providing local, relevant, and reliable news coverage to the residents of these rural areas."

The company also hinted at potential collaborations between the seven acquired newspapers and its larger regional publications, allowing for a wider distribution of local stories and a greater depth of coverage on issues affecting the entire region. This could mean stories about agricultural challenges in western North Dakota appearing in the Grand Forks Herald, or profiles of innovative businesses in rural Minnesota featured on The Forum of Fargo-Moorhead's website.

The acquisition underscores the growing recognition that local news is not just a business, but a public service. Forum Communications' investment demonstrates a commitment to preserving this critical pillar of democratic society in an era of increasing fragmentation and polarization.