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Why the Repeaters Matter

DARC operates and links three key VHF repeaters in the region:

• 145.490 MHz (Utah Hill / West Mountain Peak area) — High-elevation site with wide-area coverage across southern Washington County and beyond.
• 146.640 MHz (Webb Hill) — Covers metropolitan St. George and Washington areas.
• 145.450 MHz (Toquerville / Hurricane area) — Stronger in northern Washington County, including Hurricane, La Verkin, and toward Zion National Park.

These linked systems provide essential coverage for local hams, ARES (Amateur Radio Emergency Service) activities, DARC Nets, public events (like marathons), and disaster response. Keeping them reliable ensures “when all else fails… amateur radio works!”

Key Upgrade and Maintenance Needs

• Critical link radios and controllers upgrade — ~$1,700 (essential for system interconnectivity and performance).
• Three new antennas + related hardware — an additional ~$9,000 (to build long-term robustness for the next decade).
• Ongoing annual maintenance — ~$1,000/year post-upgrades and maintenance, covering future battery replacements (~2 years), solar panels (~3 years), radio upgrades (~5 years), and other routine needs.

These updates address aging components, technology evolution, and wear from environmental factors in the rugged southern Utah terrain.

Donor Appreciation Gifts

These personalized thank-yous make giving even more rewarding:

• $50 – $99: A slate or cork coaster with the DARC logo and your call sign —a nice, practical item for your shack or around the house.
• $100 or more: A custom DARC water bottle with the DARC logo—perfect for hikes, events like Parks on the Air, or staying hydrated during field days in our desert climate.
• $250 or more: A custom DARC water bottle with the DARC Logo, and a baseball hat with the club logo and your call sign.
• $500 or more: Special recognition on the club website (a lasting shout-out to fellow members), and a polo shirt with the DARC logo and your call sign plus the custom club water bottle.

Even small amounts add up, especially with the match—let’s help hit our goals and keep these repeaters strong for the community! If you’re a local ham or just value reliable emergency comms in the region, this is a meaningful way to give back.

73, and thanks for spreading the word!