Subj : 2025 ARRL Field Day - Are You Ready?
To   : QST
From : ARRL de WD1CKS
Date : Fri Jun 13 2025 07:40 pm

06/13/2025

You can almost hear the synthesizer lead from the musical act Europe's 1986
hit, "The Final Countdown," playing in the air - we are just two weeks away
from 2025 ARRL Field Day, taking place on June 28 - 29. As the excitement
builds, 1067 sites are listed on the station locator tool[1]. Each of them has
a lot of work to do between now and the first "CQ Field Day" transmission.

Now is the time to check (and double-check) everything, according to ARRL
Radiosport and Regulatory Information Manager Bart Jahnke, W9JJ. "Check all
your gear and accessories. Put it on the air, and make sure there are no
problems. Organize your power chain - from the generator to all the cables," he
suggested.

Going through all the equipment, including antennas and antenna support
structures, will keep any nasty surprises at bay when it's time to activate for
the event.

It is also time to check on your people and places. "Reach out to everyone who
said they wanted to come and make sure they are still able to. Build an
operating schedule," said Jahnke. It's also a prudent time to check with the
property owner where you intend to hold the activation. Follow up with local
media and town officials that have been invited.

With the heat of summer bearing down, make sure there's enough water and
sunscreen for the activation. A double-check of supplies now could spare you
from unplanned errands during Field Day.

"More than anything, being prepared now will help you be present during Field
Day," said ARRL Public Relations and Outreach Manager Sierra Harrop, W5DX.
"This is a great opportunity to share the joy and community of amateur radio
with people who may not get a chance to participate in it often - or it could
be a first introduction. Prepare now so you can have fun the weekend of," she
said.

ARRL The National Association for Amateur Radio� has many resources to help
your activation thrive during the event. All the rules and information are at
www.arrl.org/FieldDay[2]. Order your 2025 ARRL Field Day merch[3] by Thursday,
June 19, to ensure your shipment arrives in time for Field Day.

ARRL also encourages clubs to use Field Day as an opportunity to onboard new
members - both into the club and into amateur radio. Have a plan for
prospective hams to become a part of the action through licensing classes, exam
sessions, demonstrations, and future club activities. Invite them to your next
club meeting and make them feel welcome. Exchange contact information and
follow up with them. Field Day is a great outreach opportunity!

�

�


[1] https://www.arrl.org/field-day-locator
[2] http://www.arrl.org/FieldDay
[3] http://www.arrl.org/shop/fieldday

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