The KP1-5 Project -- organizers of the 2009 Desecheo Island DXpedition -- is pleased to announce that Amateur Radio operators will be on-the-air in observance of the 2009 National Wildlife Refuge Week, on the air October 10-18. This event features scores of festivals and special events that help connect people with nature at the country's 547 National Wildlife Refuges.

Combining Amateur Radio's communication capabilities with enjoyment of the outdoors to help others learn about the National Wildlife Refuge System (NWRS) is the goal of the amateur stations participating in the nine-day event. Hams are operating from a number of wildlife refuges this week -- including the K4M DXpedition on Midway Island -- under guidelines established in cooperation with the US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS).

Amateurs who contact five stations operating from refuges and Federal Wildlife Management Areas can earn a National Wildlife Refuge Week certificate -- at least 15 stations are scheduled to participate. A list of participating stations is available; only those stations who have authorized, responsible access to refuges are sanctioned by this event. Send your call sign, log information (including the refuges and call signs contacted) and a 9"×11" self-addressed, stamped envelope bearing $1 US postage (or enclose a green stamp or two IRCs) to NWR Week Certificate, c/o 7423 Salford Ct, Alexandria, VA 22315.

This year, the National Wildlife Refuge System celebrates 106 years of conservation. "It is my hope that citizens across the country will take advantage of this celebration to experience wildlife in their natural habitats," said Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar, "and play a firsthand role in conservation by participating in special events and programs, or simply observing and enjoying the great outdoors at a local refuge."

Check the National Wildlife Refuge Week Amateur Radio Web site for more information. Interested in activating a refuge next year? The Web site includes detailed guidance on how to start planning your operation for 2010. -- Thanks to Brad Farrell, K4RT, for the information