FR 0x002: Conway-Robinson Memorial Ste Forest

Ref: US-5510
Rig: Elecraft KX2
Ant: CHA LEFS 4010
Power: 5W
Key: BaMaKeY TP-III
HT: BTECH UV-PRO + SignalStick
Tab: Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+
Ruck: GR0 Cordura
Logging Gear:
    Battle Board Aviation Kneeboard
    Rite in the Rain Notebook #935
    Rite in the Rain Metal Pen #97 
Other Gear:
    Weaver Arborist 12oz throw weight and line
    Helinox Zero Chair
WX: -2C, ~8kph wind, clear & sunny

This was my first activation at the Conway-Robinson Memorial State Forest. There are a number of activation options in the area: plenty of picnic tables, a shelter, and trees close enough to the parking to enable car activation. The trees by the picnic area and parking are quite tall, but I spotted a few good branches for antenna deployment. The downside is that you’ll be right by a busy road. I didn’t look too closely, but the shelter looked a bit far from trees, so plan to bring some antenna support or a longer coax. I opted to go for a hike and activate in the forest. I’ve heard the trails can get quite muddy, but thankfully today they were dry which made for a pleasant and easy hike. The forest has solid APRS coverage. To the west you can reach W4VA-13 iGate directly, and to the east you can bounce your signal to W4VA-13 via KN4IJF-1 digipeater. I had no issues reaching APRS services and getting my beacon out throughout my hike and activation. The activation itself was fun and the weather was bearable if it wasn’t for the brutal wind (or maybe I’m just an idiot for not wearing gloves). Started off with a few DX calls - Ignacio EA2BD from Spain, who is a regular caller and a new contact with Paul G4PVM from Chelmsford, Essex in England. Thanks for calling guys! Fun fact - Chelmsford is considered the birthplace of radio - this is where Marconi made the first radio broadcast. Also got a couple of P2P contacts - thanks for calling!

• Brett KE9BOS at the Indiana War Memorial Plaza National Historical Site
• Brenden W3VD at the Silver Springs State Park

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