Ham radio operators’ Winter Field Day set for Jan. 25-26
Special event to be held at North Fort Myers Community Park

Ham Radio Fort Myers Field Day is a special event in the amateur radio community that will be conducted on Saturday and Sunday, Jan. 25-26, at the North Fort Myers Community Park, 2000 Recreation Park Way, North Fort Myers. The event serves as both a practice exercise and a public demonstration of the skills and capabilities of amateur radio operators (hams).
The primary purpose of Field Day is to test and improve the ability of ham radio operators to quickly deploy and operate in emergencies, such as natural disasters or other events that may disrupt regular communication channels.
Ham radio, or amateur radio, is a popular hobby and communication service that lets people talk across town, worldwide or even into space without the internet or cell networks. Enthusiasts use radios and antennas to send and receive messages on special frequencies reserved for amateur use.
It’s much more than just talking; ham radio is a blend of communication, technology and community. Operators, also known as “hams,” use it for fun, learning and public service. They can experiment with electronics, participate in global contests, and help during emergencies when regular communication networks fail. For example, ham operators often assist in disaster response by relaying critical messages when phones or the internet go down.
Ham radio is open to people of all ages and backgrounds. To get started, you’ll need a license, which involves learning basic radio theory and passing a test. Equipment ranges from simple handheld radios to larger setups for global communication. Many hams join clubs to share knowledge and participate in events.
During Field Day, ham radio operators set up temporary radio stations in various locations, such as parks, open fields, or even parking lots. The goal is to simulate the conditions of an emergency response and demonstrate the ability to establish reliable communication in less-than-ideal situations.
Key aspects of Ham Radio Field Day include:
1. Operating on Emergency Power: Participants are encouraged to operate their radio stations using alternative power sources, such as generators, batteries, or solar power, to simulate the conditions of a power outage during an emergency.
2. Setting Up Temporary Antennas: Ham radio operators deploy portable antennas to establish communication over various bands and frequencies. This helps demonstrate the adaptability and versatility of amateur radio equipment.
3. Contacting Other Stations: Participants aim to make as many contacts with other ham radio stations as possible within a 24-hour period. Points are awarded for each contact made, and bonus points may be earned for factors like using alternative power sources or incorporating new technologies.
4. Public Awareness: In addition to the emergency preparedness aspect, Field Day also serves as an opportunity to promote amateur radio to the public. Many operators welcome visitors, provide information about amateur radio, and may even offer the chance for non-hams to make a radio contact under the supervision of a licensed operator.
Winter Field Day is sponsored by the Winter Field Day Association. It’s a valuable and enjoyable way for ham radio operators to hone their skills, showcase the capabilities of amateur radio, and engage with the community.
For more information about the Fort Myers Amateur Radio Club, please visit fmarc.net, fieldday@fmarc.net or Winter Field Day at winterfieldday.org.