SeaScholar Posted August 22 Report Posted August 22 GMRS on the Air (GOTA) 1. Vision & Mission Vision: To see a GMRS radio in the hands of every family and individual recreating in the outdoors as a primary tool for safety, convenience, and community. Mission Statement: To establish a network of licensed General Mobile Radio Service (GMRS) operators who volunteer their time and equipment in public recreational areas to provide communication assistance, promote safety, and build a stronger, service-oriented GMRS community. 2. Core Concept: The "Helpful Neighbor on the Trail" GOTA is a volunteer-based program focused on public service through communication. It is not a security patrol or an official watch group. The role of a GOTA operator is to be a friendly, visible, and helpful source of information and communication for the public. Operators act as a reliable point of contact in areas where cell service may be unavailable, offering assistance and enhancing the safety and enjoyment of the recreational area for everyone. 3. Organizational Structure A two-tiered structure allows for national cohesion and local autonomy: National Level (The GOTA Association): Manages the GOTA brand, website, and a central database of operators and locations. Develops the general rules, code of conduct, and operating procedures. Issues national-level awards and recognition for participation. Maintains a master list of eligible Areas of Operation (AOs). State/Local Level (Coordinators & Clubs): The driving force of the program, consisting of volunteer coordinators or existing GMRS clubs. Builds relationships with local park management and recreational groups. Organizes local events, such as a "GOTA Day" or coordinated watches. Serves as the primary point of contact for new operators in their region. 4. Areas of Operation (AOs) Primary AOs: Parks (State, County, & National): The foundation of the program. Recreational Trails & Trail Systems: Hiking, biking, and equestrian trails. OHV (Off-Highway Vehicle) Areas: Designated areas for ATVs, 4x4s, etc. Secondary AO (Optional): Inland Waterways (Lakes & Rivers): Smaller, inland bodies of water where Marine VHF radio is not required. A GMRS license is required for all GOTA operations. 5. Operator Roles & How Value is Provided An operator who is "On Station" serves the public in several key ways: Information Source: Providing directions, park/trail conditions, points of interest, etc. Safety Monitoring: Acting as a point of contact for individuals who are lost, separated, or need minor assistance. Weather Updates: Relaying current weather forecasts and alerting people to hazardous conditions. Emergency Relay: In critical situations without cell service, a GOTA operator can relay information to the proper authorities (Park Rangers, 911 dispatch). 6. Technology & Equipment To maximize effectiveness, operators are encouraged to use quality equipment. Base Station: A mobile GMRS radio (15-50 watts) connected to a vehicle or portable power source, with a high-quality, externally mounted antenna for best performance. Signage: A small, friendly sign ("Volunteer GMRS Operator - Monitoring Channel XX for Assistance") makes an operator visible and approachable. Mobile GMRS Repeaters: This is a key force multiplier for the GOTA program. Function: An operator can deploy a portable, low-power GMRS repeater at a high-elevation point within the park or trail system (e.g., a hilltop or ridge). Benefit: This single repeater can provide park-wide communication coverage, linking hikers with handhelds in low-lying valleys back to the GOTA operator's base station and to each other. It dramatically increases the range and reliability of the service being provided. Use Case: An operator sets up their base station at a main trailhead and deploys a solar-powered repeater on a nearby peak. Now, they can hear and assist people from anywhere in the park, not just those within direct line-of-sight. 7. Key Terminology & Procedures The Activity: "Going On Station" or "Conducting a Watch" The Participants: "GOTA Operators" (those on station) and "Monitors" (those listening in) The Log: "Station Log" (a record of time, location, contacts, and assistance provided) Procedure: An operator finds a location, sets up their station, and makes an announcement on a designated GMRS calling channel (e.g., Channel 20, CTCSS 141.3 Hz), stating their call sign, location, and the channel they will be monitoring for their watch. 8. Code of Conduct Operators are volunteers, not officials. They must never represent themselves as park staff or law enforcement. All FCC rules and regulations for GMRS must be followed at all times. Operators must be courteous, professional, and helpful to all members of the public. The primary goal is service and safety. The program is not for contesting or simply making contacts. 9. Awards & Recognition To encourage participation, the National Association will offer awards for achievements such as: Conducting a watch in 10, 25, or 50 different AOs. Logging 24, 50, or 100 hours "On Station." A "Public Service Award" for operators who provide documented, critical assistance. 10. Web Domains Jason Albers (WSJI765) has purchased the following domains for this program. gmrsontheair.com - the primary site where the GOTA program will be hosted with access to transmission (watch) reports. joingota.com - This will be the forwarding domain for recruit of GMRS Operators. gmrsontheair.org - A secondary backup domain for GOTA. It will forward to the dot com. --------------------------------------------------------------------- If you have any thoughts or additional ideas for this program, please discuss them below. This is OUR program, let's make it the best!
Recommended Posts