Getting WGDH Back On the Air
July 25, 2024 -
The CVCR Board has authorized the immediate purchase of a new audio processor to get WGDH, Hardwick back on the air. It is the fastest solution to get back on and, for $3,500, what we can afford to fundraise for on top of our existing fundraising commitments for the FY24 budget.
We anticipate the gear to arrive in Vermont in a week and to be back on the air shortly afterward. Further upgrades to WGDH will be considered by the board at a later date.
The broadcast shed in Wolcott is enduring much hotter and for much longer heat during both the summers and shoulder seasons than was expected when it was built in 2010. The infrastructure Goddard created was only concerned with the winter and keeping the shed warm, not cooled in the summer. In order to last its full expected lifespan of 20 or more years, broadcast gear like audio processors and transmitters must be kept at 75 degrees or cooler at all times. Since taking on ownership of WGDH, we’ve monitored frequent long spans of 90 degrees or hotter in the shed, at times for weeks. This has put a constant stress on the gear up there and the result is literal burn out of the gear. This is what happened to the audio processor, that was only 14 years old. Addressing this kind of impact from the climate crisis and how to be more resilient for it is part of what the CVCR board is considering as next steps for WGDH’s future.
For now, we are fundraising toward the cost of that processor ($3,500), as well as any increased and unplanned FY24 operating costs for WGDR due to the sale of campus via the CVCR Future Fund. One-time gifts can be made here: https://givebutter.com/CVCRFutureFund
We are very aware of the impact of flooding in our listening area this month and also larger donor fatigue from our long-time donors, as we have yet another fundraising request coming from the station. This is why we are specifically seeking only one-time gifts from those who have the means or who will be new donors to the station. We are working on finding other, emergency funding for this unexpected cost, from other sources as well. We always appreciate any support folks can give, especially for this unplanned urgent need.
