Field Day 2026 takes place June 27 – 28 and will bring together more than 30,000 amateur radio operators. This year's Field Day theme is "Amateur Radio: A National Resource." Our club is trying to decide between different station classes and I'm confused about the rules.

If we set up three transmitter stations (20m, 40m, and VHF), would that make us 3A? We get 10 points for each formal message originated, relayed or received and delivered during the Field Day period, up to a maximum of 100 points - do we need someone specifically handling NTS traffic or can any operator do this?

Also planning our first GOTA station this year to get some unlicensed visitors on the air!

Yes, three transmitter stations would make you 3A. For the message handling bonus, any licensed operator can handle formal traffic but make sure you follow proper NTS format. The message must be transmitted during the Field Day period and must leave or enter the Field Day operation via amateur radio RF.

GOTA stations are fantastic for public outreach! During public hours, anyone who is newly licensed or unlicensed can participate and receive instruction. Make sure you have patient control operators who enjoy teaching. It's often the highlight of Field Day for many visitors.

Don't forget about the bonus points for operating on emergency power and for having an ARRL official visit your station. Also consider setting up a simple 2m FM setup for local contacts - sometimes those are the most fun conversations of the whole weekend!