For many years, Iowa's three state universities each operated their own set of radio stations, each with slightly different program offerings and coverage areas.
Since IPR came into existence decades after FM became popular, the dial was already full in most areas, limiting the potential for new stations and leading to inconsistent coverage.
This has resulted in ten of IPR's fifteen fully licensed stations carrying a mix of services.
Since its debut, IPR has made it a priority to expand its services in western and southern Iowa.
Pending applications for new stations would add service in western Iowa, although other organizations are also competing for those frequencies.
In addition, eight construction permits have been issued for new stations, many of which will add coverage in southern Iowa.
[3][4] Iowa Public Radio is governed by a board of eighteen community directors.