Basin PBS: The Heartbeat of West Texas
In the sweeping plains of the Permian Basin, where sunsets stretch long and the land whispers stories of grit, growth, and hope, Basin PBS has stood as a quiet but steady voice for the people—connecting us, educating us, and reflecting who we are.
Our story began on December 31, 1986, when Odessa College brought public television to the region with the launch of KOCV-TV. At a time when the Permian Basin was known for boomtown headlines and oilfield strength, this small station had a quieter mission: to educate, to enlighten, and to offer every household access to the world.
But as the Permian Basin evolved, so did we.
In 2005, facing a shifting media landscape, a group of West Texans came together to protect this vital resource. What had begun on a college campus was entrusted to the people—becoming Basin PBS, a community-licensed public television station with a fierce commitment to local service.
And just like Midland—celebrating its 150th year of resilience and reinvention—we have transformed again and again to meet the moment.
A Home Reborn
In 2019, Basin PBS moved into the historic Ritz Theater in downtown Midland. Once dark and crumbling, the century-old venue was lovingly restored—brick by brick, seat by seat—into a vibrant center of media, storytelling, and community engagement. Its resurrection was more than a real estate project. It was a message: we’re not just here, we belong here.
Now, from that glowing marquee, we produce programs that showcase the voices of West Texas—ranchers, teachers, students, artists, elders. We host town halls on urgent local issues, children’s events that bring families together, and music specials that echo through the very walls that once held silent films and swing bands.
A Mission That Matters
At its core, Basin PBS is a mirror. We reflect the struggles and the strengths of our people. Whether we’re broadcasting emergency updates, amplifying community conversations, or airing educational programs that light up young minds, we’re rooted in the same spirit that has guided Midland for 150 years: neighbors helping neighbors.
We are not driven by ratings or trends. We are powered by purpose—and by the families, educators, and visionaries who believe that public television should serve everybody, regardless of zip code or income.
Celebrating Midland, Celebrating America
As Midland honors 150 years of bold determination, Basin PBS also stands proud. We are one of the few locally owned and operated media voices in the region. We are one of the few truly non-commercial spaces on the dial. And we are one of the few places where every child, every elder, every dreamer can find themselves on screen.
From the early days of KOCV to the rebirth of the Ritz Theater, from analog antennas to digital innovation, Basin PBS has always believed in the power of local stories.
Because here in West Texas, stories matter.
They teach.
They connect.
They endure.
We are Basin PBS.
A reflection of Midland’s heart, heritage, and hope.
A station made by the people—for the people.
And a vital voice for the next 150 years.