Press Release # 1----Desecheo KP5----2009

The Caribbean National Wildlife Refuge Complex has selected and
announced a team of operators to activate Desecheo Island (KP5)
sometime between January 15, 2009 and March 30, 2009. The Team will
be co-led by Dr. Glenn Johnson, WØGJ and Bob Allphin, K4UEE.

Background: On June 30, 2008, the Caribbean National Wildlife Refuge
office in Puerto Rico sent a letter to persons that had previously
made inquiries about an Amateur Radio operation from Desecheo. They
announced their decision to allow one group to activate the island and
invited proposals that must adhere to strict guidelines and criteria.
Applicant's had 45 days to prepare and submit their proposals.

CNWR received seven written proposals. A panel of three Fish and
Wildlife Service employees, from areas within the Service outside of
the Caribbean refuge, spent September 24 & 25 reviewing and evaluating
the proposals. The selection criteria used were those outlined in the
proposal invitation letter. Points were awarded for how well criteria
were addressed for thoroughness and documentation.
The proposal with the highest ranking was submitted by team leaders
Dr. Glenn Johnson, WØGJ, and Bob Allphin, K4UEE.

Their plan involves a team of fifteen operators for a 14-day
operation. USFWS has not announced the actual dates of the operation
yet, but the DXpedition is expected to take place between January 15,
2009 and March 30, 2009. A Special Use Permit (SUP) will be issued as
per USFWS regulations. We expect that the DXpedition team and DXers
worldwide will have a minimum of 30 days notice.

A website is being planned and will be announced in the near future.

Mike Paskeuric
NØODK

Updated link: http://www.kp5.us/