Amateur radio operators with the Tri-Cities Amateur Radio Club showcased outstanding technical skill during this year’s ARRL Field Day event in Richland, Washington. Setting up portable operating stations along the shores of the Columbia River, local hams logged hundreds of contacts across the globe while operating entirely on off-grid generator, battery, and solar power.
Using directional Yagi antennas and multi-band wire dipoles, operators made voice, Morse code (CW), and FT8 digital contacts across 15, 20, 40, and 80 meters. The 24-hour operation served as both an emergency preparedness exercise and a public demonstration of ham radio capabilities for residents visiting the park from Richland, Kennewick, and Pasco.
Community members, youth groups, and local elected officials visited the GOTA (Get On The Air) station to make their very first HF radio contacts under the guidance of experienced Elmer mentors. The event successfully demonstrated the Tri-Cities club’s dedication to public service, STEM education, and emergency preparedness.
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