Public radio station KMST at Missouri University of Science and Technology will hold its Spring Membership Drive Feb. 26 through March 6. The drive’s goal is $70,000. The station is responsible for raising more than 30 percent of its operating funds.

Money raised will go toward the general operating costs of the station and will help KMST continue to offer local and NPR programming. The mixed format includes talk and a wide range of music, including classical, jazz, acoustic folk, blues, big band, Celtic, bluegrass and Caribbean.

The membership drive will kick off at 7 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 26, with station manager Wayne Bledsoe’s popular program, “Bluegrass for a Saturday Night.” Special guests from around the area will be featured during the drive.

While KMST has a strong following in the mid-Missouri area, it also has listeners from 47 states and 41 countries through its website.

“It’s wonderful to have so many good listeners and members who appreciate KMST’s programming,” says Bledsoe. “However, due to rising costs and shrinking federal funds, I also need to stress the importance of bringing in new members as well as current member upgrades. It’s through these efforts that we ensure the future health of our station.”

For as little as a few dollars per month, new members can invest in public radio or current members can upgrade their membership level. This investment allows KMST to broadcast nationally acclaimed, award-winning news programs like “Morning Edition” and “All Things Considered.”

Those who invest in a KMST membership will receive a KMST membership card. This card provides discounts at selected businesses, including Benton Square Salon, Benton Square Restaurant, Fairground Auto Plaza, Huffman Nursery, Meramec Vineyards, Rolla Books and Toys, Forest City Footwear, Plaza Fashions and The Rock House.

During the KMST drive, pledges may be made by calling 573-341-4386 in the Rolla area, or toll-free at 888-776-5678. Listeners also may pledge online at KMST’s website.

In its 38th year of service, KMST is a 100,000-watt non-commercial public radio station licensed to the Curators of the University of Missouri System. KMST is located at 88.5 FM in the Rolla area and 96.3 FM in Lebanon and online at www.kmst.org.