BELFAST — Troy Howard Middle School in Belfast will be the site of Amateur Radio Field Day. Ham radio operators from the Waldo County Amateur Radio Association will be participating in a national amateur radio exercise from 1 p.m. on Saturday until noon on Sunday, June 24 - 25. The public is invited to attend. Field Day is an annual amateur radio activity organized since 1933 by ARRL, The National Association for Amateur Radio in the United States.

Hams from across North America ordinarily participate in Field Day by establishing temporary ham radio stations in public locations to demonstrate their skill and service. Their use of radio signals, which reach beyond borders, bring people together while providing essential communication in the service of communities. Field Day highlights ham radio’s ability to work reliably under any conditions from almost any location and create an independent, wireless communications network.

Some local hams will also use the radio stations set up in their homes, backyards and other locations to operate individually. Many hams have portable radio communication capability that includes alternative energy sources such as generators, solar panels, and batteries to power their equipment. 

Ham radio functions completely independently of the internet and phone systems and a station can be set up almost anywhere in minutes. Hams can quickly raise a wire antenna in a tree or on a mast, connect it to a radio and power source, and communicate effectively with others.

Among the tenets of the Amateur Radio Service is developing and practicing skills in radio technology and radio communications, and even contributing to international goodwill. Hams range in age from as young as 9 to older than 100.

For more information about ARRL Field Day or to learn about becoming a ham visit the Waldo County Amateur Radio Association https://www.wcara.org.