About

The Coos County Radio Club is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization that was founded in 1957 and serves the general amateur radio community in Coos County Oregon and the surrounding area. Our members are dedicated operators, and in the traditional spirit of amateur radio, are active in numerous public service activities.

While our primary focus is on Amateur Radio we welcome anyone with an interest in radio communications, electronics, public and emergency service. If you would like to learn more about us, please join us at one of our meetings or contact us through the link below.

The Coos County Radio Club holds regular monthly meetings on the 2nd Thursday of the month at Puerto Vallarta Restaurant, 230 S. 2nd St. Coos Bay, Oregon. Dinner at 5pm, meeting starts at 6PM.

Our activities are always open to the public. We offer license training classes, license testing through SWORA, repeater coverage, and a great family atmosphere. Come and join us anytime.

As amateur radio enthusiasts, part of our mission is to promote and protect the art, science, and enjoyment of amateur radio, and to develop the next generation of radio amateurs.

Amateur radio, often referred to as “ham radio,” also has a crucial role in disaster situations by providing reliable communication when traditional systems fail.

  • Reliable Backup Communication:
    • During disasters, infrastructure like cell towers, phone and internet lines, and the electrical grid can be damaged or overloaded. Amateur radio can operate independently, allowing for communication even when these systems are down.
    • Ham radio operators can set up and establish their own networks wherever needed, ensuring messages can be relayed.
  • Emergency Communication Services:
    • They can provide vital communication links for emergency responders, relief organizations, and re-connecting family members.
    • This includes relaying critical information, coordinating rescue efforts, and assisting with facilitating the distribution of aid.
  • Community Support:
    • Amateur radio operators often have strong ties within their communities, enabling them to provide localized support and information.
    • They assist in providing communications for local events such as the Circle the Bay Run in Coos Bay and the Tour De Fronds Bicycle ride in Powers Oregon.
  • Trained Volunteers:
    • Many ham radio operators undergo specialized training, including FEMA’s National Incident Management System (NIMS) and Incident Command System (ICS) courses.
    • This ensures they can effectively integrate with emergency management agencies and provide valuable assistance.
  • Weather/Monitoring:
    • Through programs like SKYWARN, amateur radio operators can provide real-time weather reports to the National Weather Service, aiding in early warnings and disaster preparedness.
  • Organizations:
    • Organizations like the Amateur Radio Emergency Service (ARES) and the Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Service (RACES) coordinate amateur radio operators during emergencies.
    • The Coos County Radio Club is an ARRL Affiliate club.

In essence, amateur radio provides a resilient and adaptable communication network that is essential during times of crisis.