What is WWFF?

World Wide Flora & Fauna (WWFF) is an international amateur radio program designed to promote both environmental awareness and the enjoyment of amateur radio. It encourages radio operators to venture into designated natural areas and establish temporary radio stations.

Core Principles:
  • Conservation Advocacy:
    • WWFF aims to raise public awareness about the importance of protecting the world’s diverse flora and fauna. By operating from these locations, amateur radio enthusiasts highlight the beauty and fragility of these ecosystems.

 

  • Amateur Radio Skill Enhancement:
    • Operating from remote locations presents unique challenges, requiring operators to develop and refine their skills in antenna setup, power management, and efficient communication techniques. This promotes self-sufficiency and resourcefulness.

 

  • Global Community Building:
    • WWFF fosters a sense of global community among amateur radio operators. Participants from around the world can connect, share experiences, and learn from each other.

 

  • Promotion of outdoor activity:
    • WWFF encourages people to get out into nature.
Operational Details:
  • Designated Areas:
    • WWFF focuses on activations from a wide range of protected areas, including national parks, nature reserves, wildlife sanctuaries, and other locations that meet specific criteria.

 

  • Activations:
    • When an operator “activates” a location, they set up their radio equipment and make contact with other amateur radio stations. These contacts are logged and submitted for recognition within the WWFF program.

 

  • Logging and Awards:
    • WWFF maintains a database of activations and contacts, and participants can earn awards based on their achievements. This adds an element of friendly competition and encourages participation.

 

  • International Scope:
    • WWFF is a truly global program, with participants and protected areas located in numerous countries. This international reach contributes to its diverse and vibrant community.
How Does WWFF Differ From POTA?:

While WWFF and Parks On The Air (POTA) share the common goal of promoting outdoor amateur radio operations from parks, they differ in several key aspects. WWFF has a more global scope, emphasizing adherence to International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) protected area standards, whereas POTA, though expanding internationally, originated and maintains a strong presence in the United States, and may utilize a wider range of park designations. 

Logging requirements and specific operating rules also vary between the two programs. Additionally, POTA’s user-friendly online platform has contributed to its rapid growth and popularity, while WWFF utilizes a different online structure. Despite these differences, there is significant overlap in park listings, allowing operators to participate in both programs simultaneously.