Low power radio is a low-wattage, AM radio station that broadcasts short, pre-programmed messages over a limited area so visitors can tune in from their cars or boats and hear about a particular locale, attraction, or facility.

Sea Grant Extension specialists have helped state agencies, chambers of commerce and others test and develop low power radio programming across the country:

--- In Massachusetts, Woods Hole Sea Grant's low power radio program is aimed at travelers awaiting a ferry trip to Martha's Vineyard. They learn about the village of Woods Hole, its marine scientific research institutions, the ferry itself and the ride across Vineyard Sound.

--- New Hampshire Sea Grant established the Great Bay Area Radio to tell residents and visitors about the Great Bay Estuary, including pollution reduction techniques and wildlife information.

--- Oregon uses low power radio throughout the state. Its Coast Talk radio informs passersby about the history, economics and sights of a working fishing port in the Port of Newport. At Seal Rock, people are taught about fragile tide pool ecosystems and how to keep from damaging them, while at Boiler Bay State Park, visitors can tune in and get tips on how to spot migrating whales, information about the park's natural history and weather updates.

Low power radio requires only four components: an audio recorder to capture and repeatedly play back voice messages, an antenna, an AM radio transmitter, and roadway signs alerting potential listeners to the broadcast. As a result, it is an inexpensive and easy to use method of communication. Oregon Sea Grant has produced a video that showcases low power radio use at Sea Grant programs around the country and a booklet with guidelines on how to set up your own station. For ordering information visit: http://seagrant.orst.edu/sgpubs/multimedia.html#lpr