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GM4FFF/m – POTA Activation from Dumbreck Marsh LNR (GB-3321)

 Date: 9 August 2025

Operators: MMØDFV and GM4XYL
Station: GM4FFF/m
Location: Dumbreck Marsh Local Nature Reserve, Scotland
POTA Reference: GB-3321
Mode: FT8
Band: 30 metres



A Scenic Activation Site

On 9 August 2025, the GM Flora and Fauna Club took to the airwaves from Dumbreck Marsh Local Nature Reserve for another Parks on the Air (POTA) activation. The location is a mix of wetlands, grassland, and scrubland, supporting a wide range of bird and plant life. With its open horizons and low ambient noise, the site is a natural choice for HF operations.

Once a former industrial site, Dumbreck Marsh has been transformed into a valuable wildlife reserve. It’s now managed for conservation and public enjoyment, with paths, viewing areas, and enough open space for a comfortable mobile or portable radio setup.

Station and Conditions

Operating mobile as GM4FFF/m from grid square IO75XX, the setup was simple but effective: a vehicle-mounted antenna and FT8 on 30 metres. This band was chosen for its reliability in daytime conditions, offering good coverage across Europe with modest power.

Propagation was cooperative, with steady signals across the session. The noise floor was minimal, allowing weaker stations to be copied with ease — one of the many benefits of operating well away from urban environments.



QSO Overview

Over the course of the activation, 29 QSOs were completed. Stations from England, Scotland, and Wales were logged alongside many European contacts, including Germany, France, Spain, the Netherlands, Italy, Belgium, Hungary, and Russia.

Signal reports varied, with the strongest contacts received at +22 dB and the weakest still making the log at around -21 dB. The mix of strong regional contacts and solid DX highlights just how effective FT8 can be in a well-chosen mobile location.



Reflections on the Day

This activation was another reminder of how portable and mobile amateur radio can combine technical satisfaction with the enjoyment of nature. Working from Dumbreck Marsh not only produced a healthy log but also offered a chance to enjoy the sights and sounds of a thriving Scottish wetland.

Thanks to all who answered our calls — your QSOs are now part of the GM Flora and Fauna Club’s growing record of activations across Scotland.

73! and see you on the bands, GM4FFF.

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