Last week’s speakers, Doug Barker and Jeff Johnson, represented Clatsop County’s HAM Radio Operators, whose motto says it all “When All Else Fails – HAM Can

Do!”. Doug and Jeff explained that the term HAM, once a lighthearted jab from professional telegraph operators meaning “ham-fisted” or clumsy has since become a

badge of pride for amateur radio enthusiasts who serve a vital role in emergency communication. The group really came together during the 2007 gale, a storm that

underscored the need for reliable backup communications systems. Today, they partner with ODART and assist County Emergency Operations during storms, power

outages and large-scale events like Hood to Coast. HAM operators use their training, personal equipment, and technical expertise to maintain communications when

traditional systems fail. Unlike phone or internet networks, HAM radios can operate completely independent of power grids and infrastructure, using simple setups like

a wire antenna in a tree and a portable power source. Clatsop County has seven repeaters, with another four across the river, all interconnected to extend

communication coverage across the region. A repeater on Nikolai Mountain even allows operators to check in with operations in Portland. Each site is powered by

solar panels and backup batteries, ensuring continuous operation.

Rotary Club of Seaside

The operators also maintain three Winlink stations, which allow users to send emails

over radio waves to any email address worldwide, proving how versatile amateur radio

can be even without internet access. Doug and Jeff closed by encouraging attendees to

consider becoming licensed HAM operators themselves, noting that the process is

accessible and rewarding. As one member, Sue Coddington, proudly put it, “If I can do it,

anyone can.” For more information, please contact Doug or Jeff.

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