History of the Flora & Fauna program
Researched by Paul VK5PAS.
(UNDER CONSTRUCTION - further research being undertaken. I welcome any input from anybody who may be able to assist in the history of WFF / WWFF )
Introduction.
Are you confused about the history of the 'old' WFF program and the 'new' WWFF program ? Confused about the name similarities, various logos and various Yahoo groups, etc ? Well, you are probably not on your own. It appears that many people are. So here I will try my best to explain the history of the two program/s, and sadly some of the personal politics that have been involved in what should be exclusively a FUN amateur radio activity.
(UNDER CONSTRUCTION - further research being undertaken. I welcome any input from anybody who may be able to assist in the history of WFF / WWFF )
Introduction.
Are you confused about the history of the 'old' WFF program and the 'new' WWFF program ? Confused about the name similarities, various logos and various Yahoo groups, etc ? Well, you are probably not on your own. It appears that many people are. So here I will try my best to explain the history of the two program/s, and sadly some of the personal politics that have been involved in what should be exclusively a FUN amateur radio activity.
I might add that one European amateur has already accused me of being a 'bad historian'. And at least one other has encouraged me not to print the historical info of WFF / WWFF as it may put the program in a bad light. I disagree ! I am constantly asked about the history of the 2 programs and there definitely appears to be a lot of confusion.
It is clear that the behaviour of a number of amateurs along the way has not been admirable. This is very disappointing, but lets learn from this so that the same mistakes are not made again.
The famous Chinese philosopher, Confucius said…..
"Our greatest glory is not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall."
And Spanish/American philosopher George Santayana said…..
"Those who do not remember the past are condemned to repeat it."
All of the information below has been taken directly off various websites related to both programs (WFF & WWFF). This includes archived websites which can no longer be found on the web. Sadly many people who I contacted either did not wish to get involved and make a comment, or did not even bother to reply to e-mails.
2008…..
Russian Robinson Club (RRC)
The "Flora and Fauna" movement within amateur radio was initiated by the Russian Robinson Club (RRC) in 2008, as World Flora and Fauna, abbreviated as WFF (WFF).
The RRC was founded in 1993, and 'brings together amateur radio travellers and those who are romantic and adventurer at heart'. The current RRC Committee consists of members from European & Asiatic Russia, and Ukraine. The President is Yuri UA9OBA. Their current website is:-
http://robinsons.ru
The website is in Russian, however it can be translated into English during the Google search.
The RRC was founded in 1993, and 'brings together amateur radio travellers and those who are romantic and adventurer at heart'. The current RRC Committee consists of members from European & Asiatic Russia, and Ukraine. The President is Yuri UA9OBA. Their current website is:-
http://robinsons.ru
The website is in Russian, however it can be translated into English during the Google search.
However, to confuse issues, there is another website….
http://www.rdxc.org/RRC/club_e.htm
…..which lists Valery, RW3GW as the RRC President (see below).
It appears that the second website is the 'old' RRC site, and does not appear to have been updated since 2008. The first website 9robinsons.ru), was updated in December, 2013 and appears to be the current website for RRC.
Despite numerous e-mails to the RRC Committee, and also to Valery RW3GW, I have not received a single reply to clarify this issue.
http://www.rdxc.org/RRC/club_e.htm
…..which lists Valery, RW3GW as the RRC President (see below).
It appears that the second website is the 'old' RRC site, and does not appear to have been updated since 2008. The first website 9robinsons.ru), was updated in December, 2013 and appears to be the current website for RRC.
Despite numerous e-mails to the RRC Committee, and also to Valery RW3GW, I have not received a single reply to clarify this issue.
Commencement of the WFF program…..
The World Flora Fauna (WFF) program was launched on 1st July, 2008 by the then RRC President, Valery RW3GW. It was timed to coincide with the United National General Assembly declared 'International Year of Planet Earth'. The UN declared 2008 as the International Year of Planet Earth to increase awareness of the importance of Earth sciences for the achievement of sustainable development.
The WFF program was described as…
'WFF is an International Award Programme (an International nature conservation action on supporting of protected areas), organized to attract attention of the world community to the problems of protected areas, to provide them with feasible practical support, to waken a feeling of pride in the minds of the Earth’s inhabitants for natural and cultural heritage, for visiting National Parks and Nature Reserves and making QSO contacts with them.'
(from the original Rules taken from the original wff website)
and…..
'an international environmental education, and award program, created to organise and conduct expeditions in radio specially protected natural areas in order to attract world attention to the problems of protected areas, providing them with real and practical help in the wake the minds of the inhabitants of Planet Earth sense of pride in the natural and cultural heritage, as well as educational and conservation purposes'
(from the WFF Rules)
'WFF is an International Award Programme (an International nature conservation action on supporting of protected areas), organized to attract attention of the world community to the problems of protected areas, to provide them with feasible practical support, to waken a feeling of pride in the minds of the Earth’s inhabitants for natural and cultural heritage, for visiting National Parks and Nature Reserves and making QSO contacts with them.'
(from the original Rules taken from the original wff website)
and…..
'an international environmental education, and award program, created to organise and conduct expeditions in radio specially protected natural areas in order to attract world attention to the problems of protected areas, providing them with real and practical help in the wake the minds of the inhabitants of Planet Earth sense of pride in the natural and cultural heritage, as well as educational and conservation purposes'
(from the WFF Rules)
National Parks and Nature Reserves were chosen as the qualifying parks for the WFF program.
The original WFF Rules state…..
"The Programme was launched in 2008 under the auspices of International Tourist/DX Association 'National Card' and RRC".
The original Rules also show that the WFF Committee was a…..
"Subsidiary of the International Tourist/DX Association 'National Card'".
"The Programme was launched in 2008 under the auspices of International Tourist/DX Association 'National Card' and RRC".
The original Rules also show that the WFF Committee was a…..
"Subsidiary of the International Tourist/DX Association 'National Card'".
What is National Card ?
National Card (NC) is a member of the Russian Union of Travel Industry. The NC website states that its 'Mission' is…..
Promote the development of business and cultural ties between the states and the people.
Promote the creation of the image of Russia as a full and reliable business partner, attractive in terms of developing international business relations, cultural heritage and tourism potential for foreign, inbound and domestic tourism.
Create a favorable system of hospitality in the network NC, conforming to international standards of quality.
The main purpose of the company "National Map" in the field of quality is meeting the needs of partners and customers for high quality tourism and other services, in full compliance with the requirements and needs of the traveler and provide ready-made integrated solutions on a plastic platform system NC.
More information can be found on the website…..
http://www.nationalcard.ru
Promote the development of business and cultural ties between the states and the people.
Promote the creation of the image of Russia as a full and reliable business partner, attractive in terms of developing international business relations, cultural heritage and tourism potential for foreign, inbound and domestic tourism.
Create a favorable system of hospitality in the network NC, conforming to international standards of quality.
The main purpose of the company "National Map" in the field of quality is meeting the needs of partners and customers for high quality tourism and other services, in full compliance with the requirements and needs of the traveler and provide ready-made integrated solutions on a plastic platform system NC.
More information can be found on the website…..
http://www.nationalcard.ru
Existing award programs…..
Operation by amateurs operating portable from parks was well & truly in swing prior to the commencement of the WFF program. It was not a new phenomena.
There were already some existing International parks programs in place (prior to 2008). Some of those included:
Russian Flora Fauna Award (RFFA)
Ukraine Flora Fauna (UFFA)
Polish National Park Award
There were already some existing International parks programs in place (prior to 2008). Some of those included:
Russian Flora Fauna Award (RFFA)
Ukraine Flora Fauna (UFFA)
Polish National Park Award
- New Zealand National Parks Award (running since 1988).
- Portuguese CT Fauna & Flora Award (became 'Natural Parks and Reserves Award' (DPRN).
In Australia, the Keith Roget Memorial National Parks Award (formerly known as the Victorian National Parks Award) had been running since c. 1970, and continues to this day to be a very popular award. And the New South Wales National Parks Award commenced on 1st January, 1988.
WFF website created…..
In c. July, 2008, a WFF website was created.
This was initially located at…..
http://wff.qrz.ru/wff-eng.html
Then in c.August 2008 - c. February 2011, the following site was used by WFF…..
http://www.wff44.com
And at some subsequent time (c. February 2011), the following site was used…..
http://www.wff44.org
This was initially located at…..
http://wff.qrz.ru/wff-eng.html
Then in c.August 2008 - c. February 2011, the following site was used by WFF…..
http://www.wff44.com
And at some subsequent time (c. February 2011), the following site was used…..
http://www.wff44.org
A Committee is formed…..
At the commencement of the WFF program, a Committee was established. The original rules state…..
"Chairman of the WFF Committee and the Committee Members are to be approved by the Management of the WFF Programme".
Archived records of the old WFF website (wff.qrz.ru) in 2008, show the following …..
Management of the WFF Programme.
Valery RW3GW…..Director & Originator of the WFF Programme
Yuri UA9OBA…..Deputy Director
Mikhail UA1QV…..Chairman of the WFF Committee
Victor RU3GN…..Committee member
Serge UR7UT…..Committee member
Alan ZL3GX…..Committee member
Vasily RU3SD…..Committee member
Artem RD3MA…..Committee member
Award Manager
Valery RW3GW…..WFF Award Manager
WFF Coordinators
Victor RN1NU
Valeriy UA3XAC
Regional WFF Representatives.
Victor RU3GN…..WFF Committee/RFF Award Manager
Eugeny RZ3EC…..WFF Committee
Foreign Authorized Representatives of WFF.
Serge UR7UT…..WFF Committee/UFFA Award Manager
Alan ZL3GX…..WFF Committee /National Parks Award Manager
I have e-mailed all of these people and not received a single reply.
WFF slogan…..
The term 'Lets Save the Green Planet Earth' was initiated as the slogan for the WFF program. Operators were encouraged whilst having a QSO with a WFF expedition, to transmit two figures…..'44'. This meant 'Forty Four - Flora Fauna' and was interpreted as the slogan for WFF.
The first digit '4' represents the four elements: earth, water, air, and fire.
The second digit '4' represents the four directions: north, south, west, & east.
To this day, you will still hear operators using '44'.
The first digit '4' represents the four elements: earth, water, air, and fire.
The second digit '4' represents the four directions: north, south, west, & east.
To this day, you will still hear operators using '44'.
WFF logo…..
A WFF logo was introduced. This featured a butterfly with the words 'World Flora Fauna WFF'.
WFF Directory
The WFF Directory was created. This contained a list of qualifying National Parks or Nature Reserves. A referencing system was adopted which saw specific areas (National Parks and Nature Reserves) allocated FF numbers. These were described as a 'check number' which comprised of the prefix of a country in which a National Park or a Nature Reserve was located, followed by a sequential number, e.g. VKFF-001
The Directory was split into 8 regions: Africa, Antarctica, the Arctic, Asia, Europe, North America, South America, and Oceania.
As already mentioned, the only condition for listing is an official status of National Park or Nature Reserve.
It is unclear who, or how exactly the Australian VKFF areas were obtained. Recent research has indicated that there were over 100 existing Australian National Parks that were omitted from the original Directory (remains the case to this day - although this is being addressed)
Recommended operating frequencies…..
During these early years, it was recommended that the basic operating frequency was 14.244 mhz on 20m (Forty Four-Flora Fauna). Other frequencies on the other bands also suggested the incorporation of 44, e.g. 21.244, 28.444, etc.
WFF Partners…..
The wff44.com website shows the following partners to the WFF program…..
It also shows the following Information Partners…..
- Algarve DX Group
- Oceania Amateur Radio DX Group
It also shows the following Information Partners…..
- QTC - The Polish Radioamateurs Journal.
- CQ DL Magazine in Germany (DARC)
LogSearch
A Log Search facility was established which was maintained by Igor, EW4DX.
http://www.ew4dx.org/WFFsearch.html
http://www.ew4dx.org/WFFsearch.html
WFF Awards…..
WFF Awards were initiated.
These awards were…..
The Awards were issued for…..
'established contacts (QSO/SWL) with different Africa/Asia/Artica/Antarctica/Europe/North America/South America/Oceania National Parks or Nature Reserves'
and
'established contacts (QSO/SWL) with 100/200/300/400/500 /600/700/800/900/1000, etc, different National Parks or Nature Reserves throughout the world'.
They were issued by Valery, RW3GW. The certificates reflected that he was the 'Director and Originator of the WFF Programme, WFF Award manager, President of the Russian Robinson Club' and 'President of the WFF Foundation'. Some of the certificates were also signed by Igor EW4DX who was described as the 'Chief of the WFF Program'.
The Awards were issued in various Classes.
These awards were…..
- WFF Basic
- WFF 200
- WFF 300
- WFF Africa
- AWFF Antarctica
- WFF Artica
- WFF Asia
- WFF Europe
- WFF North America
- WFF South America
- WFF Oceania
- Special WFF Globus
The Awards were issued for…..
'established contacts (QSO/SWL) with different Africa/Asia/Artica/Antarctica/Europe/North America/South America/Oceania National Parks or Nature Reserves'
and
'established contacts (QSO/SWL) with 100/200/300/400/500 /600/700/800/900/1000, etc, different National Parks or Nature Reserves throughout the world'.
They were issued by Valery, RW3GW. The certificates reflected that he was the 'Director and Originator of the WFF Programme, WFF Award manager, President of the Russian Robinson Club' and 'President of the WFF Foundation'. Some of the certificates were also signed by Igor EW4DX who was described as the 'Chief of the WFF Program'.
The Awards were issued in various Classes.
Applications for the Awards could be made either via e-mail or by a hard copy application (form available on the WFF website). Applicants were required to submit original QSL's or copies, or an abstract from the original log. The applications could be verified by the Regional Award Manager of WFF, or with an Authorized Representative of WFF.
Plaques were also issued.
It appears that these certificates were being issued as late as February, 2011.
The cost of certificates for foreign hams (EU & DX) was 10 IRC's or 15 Euro.
The cost for CIS hams was 6 IRC's or 6 Euro. The cost for Russian hams was the same.
Discounts applied if applicants were supporters of the WFF Foundation.
The cost of certificates for foreign hams (EU & DX) was 10 IRC's or 15 Euro.
The cost for CIS hams was 6 IRC's or 6 Euro. The cost for Russian hams was the same.
Discounts applied if applicants were supporters of the WFF Foundation.
The WFF Activity Week…..
An event called the 2008 WFF Activity Week was held between 2nd - 8th July, 2008, in colaboration with the worldwide program for Nature Reserves and National Parks of International Tourist/DX Association 'National Card', and the Russian Robinson Club. The WFF Committee welcomed amateurs to take part in what they described as a 'Global Activity Week' from their homes or the National Parks and Nature Reserves listed in the WFF List. Countries participating in the Activity Week were Moldova, Russia, Portugal, Germany, and the Czech Republic.
Other than this event, other annual 'Days of Activity' included…..
March 20th…..Global Day for Protection of the Earth.
March 22nd…..Global Day for Protection of Water
April 1st…..International Day for Protection of Birds
July 1st…..Anniversary of the WFF Programme Launching
September 26th…..Global Day of the Sea
October 4th…..Global Fay for Protection of Animals
Other than this event, other annual 'Days of Activity' included…..
March 20th…..Global Day for Protection of the Earth.
March 22nd…..Global Day for Protection of Water
April 1st…..International Day for Protection of Birds
July 1st…..Anniversary of the WFF Programme Launching
September 26th…..Global Day of the Sea
October 4th…..Global Fay for Protection of Animals
WFF structure, July, 2008…..
An archived (July, 2008) version of the wff.44.com website shows the structure of WFF as follows…..
WFF Award Manager.
Valery RW3GW……….WFF Award Manager
WFF The Management
Valery RW3GW……….Director and author WFF of the programme
Victor RZ3DSD……….President of the WFF of the programme.
Yuri UA9OBA……….Deputy Director
Mike UA1QV……….Chairman WFF of Committee.
Victor RU3GN……….Member WFF Committee
Andy RW9WA……….Member WFF Committee.
Vasily RU3SD……….Member WFF Committee.
WFF International Authorized representatives.
Russia……….Victor RU3GN
Australia……….Bill VK4FW
Japan……….Nobuyasu JA7AYE
Portugal……….Toze CT1GFK
WFF Coordinators
Russia……….Viktor RN1NU
Russia……….Valery UA3XAC
Russia……….Vasily RA1ZZ/3
Russia……….Vladimir UA9CNV
Ukraine……….Serge UR7UT
Moldova……….Serge ER3GS
Argentina……….Sergio LU7YS
Argentina……….Jorge LU4YAO
India……….Arasu VU2UR
WFF Award Manager.
Valery RW3GW……….WFF Award Manager
WFF The Management
Valery RW3GW……….Director and author WFF of the programme
Victor RZ3DSD……….President of the WFF of the programme.
Yuri UA9OBA……….Deputy Director
Mike UA1QV……….Chairman WFF of Committee.
Victor RU3GN……….Member WFF Committee
Andy RW9WA……….Member WFF Committee.
Vasily RU3SD……….Member WFF Committee.
WFF International Authorized representatives.
Russia……….Victor RU3GN
Australia……….Bill VK4FW
Japan……….Nobuyasu JA7AYE
Portugal……….Toze CT1GFK
WFF Coordinators
Russia……….Viktor RN1NU
Russia……….Valery UA3XAC
Russia……….Vasily RA1ZZ/3
Russia……….Vladimir UA9CNV
Ukraine……….Serge UR7UT
Moldova……….Serge ER3GS
Argentina……….Sergio LU7YS
Argentina……….Jorge LU4YAO
India……….Arasu VU2UR
I have not been able to establish why the WFF structure had changed within a one month period. There were some notable changes…..
- Nobuyasu JA7AYE
- Toze CT1GFK
- Vladimir UA9CNV
-Serge UR7UT
- Serge ER3GS
- Sergio LU7YS
- Jorge LU4YAO
- Arasu VU2UR
- Viktor RZ3DSD had been appointed the President of WFF.
- Andy RW9WA had been appointed as a member of the WFF Committee.
- Eugeny RZ3EC was no longer a Regional WFF Representative.
- The following had been appointed as WFF International representatives…..
- Nobuyasu JA7AYE
- Toze CT1GFK
- Alan ZL3GX was no longer listed as a Foreign Authorised representative.
- The following had been appointed as WFF Coordinators…..
- Vladimir UA9CNV
-Serge UR7UT
- Serge ER3GS
- Sergio LU7YS
- Jorge LU4YAO
- Arasu VU2UR
Bill VK4FW was the President of the Oceania Amateur Radio DX Group at this time.
In August, 2008, Ric DL2VFR was also included as a WFF International authorised representative.
2009…..
Flora Fauna Yahoo Group…..
On or around, January 2nd, 2009, a Yahoo Group 'World Flora Fauna Program' was initiated.
http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/wff44/info
The owner of this group is Valery, RW3GW.
Initially this group was almost exclusively in the Russian language, with the vast majority of members being Russian amateurs. It was not until August & September, 2010, that regular messages in English appeared.
(This Yahoo group is still in use today. However. It is recommended that the WWFF Forum be used and not this Yahoo group site).
Initially this group was almost exclusively in the Russian language, with the vast majority of members being Russian amateurs. It was not until August & September, 2010, that regular messages in English appeared.
(This Yahoo group is still in use today. However. It is recommended that the WWFF Forum be used and not this Yahoo group site).
New WFF International authorised reps…..
By March, 2009, Serge ER3GS from Moldova, and Malik 4X4JU from Israel, had become WFF International authorised representatives.
German DLFF Diploma launched…..
In early 2009, Ric DL2VFR, initiated the German DLFF Diploma (DL Flora & Fauna).
On the 22nd to 23rd August, 2009, the WFF International Contest was held.
In October, 2009, Hungarian radio amateurs joined in the WFF activities with an activation under the special call of HG0WFF operated by the Regionalis Radios Sportklub Puspokladany.
2010…..
2010 WFF structure…..
The wff44.com website in April, 2010, shows the structure of WFF as follows…..
WFF AWARD MANAGER: RW3GW, Valery Sushkov,
WFF THE MANAGEMENT:Director, author WFF of the program and Fund: RW3GW, Valery Sushkov
President of the WFF of the program and Fund: RZ3DSD, Victor Magnitskiy
Members WFF of committee:
RW9WA, Andy Korpachev
RD3MA, Artem Abramov
UY5XE, George Chliyanc
MM0DFV, Yuri Funkner
WFF AWARD MANAGER: RW3GW, Valery Sushkov,
WFF THE MANAGEMENT:Director, author WFF of the program and Fund: RW3GW, Valery Sushkov
President of the WFF of the program and Fund: RZ3DSD, Victor Magnitskiy
Members WFF of committee:
RW9WA, Andy Korpachev
RD3MA, Artem Abramov
UY5XE, George Chliyanc
MM0DFV, Yuri Funkner
The website also shows that the following listed as WFF International authorised representatives…..
- Russian: RA1ZZ/3, Vasily Sukhanov
- Australia: VK4FW, Bill Horner
- Japan: JA7AYE, Nobuyasu Hosaka
- Portugal: СT1GFK, Toze - Antonio Jose Rebelo Guerreiro
- Ukraine:
- Germany: DL2VFR, Ric Stumpf-Siering (DF0WFF)
- Мoldova: ER3GS, Sergey Galaychuck (ER3WFF)
- Israel: 4X4JU, Malik Webman (4X0WFF)
- Spain: EA7HEG, Sebastian Márquez Mogedas
- Belarus: EW4DX, Igor Artsyman (EW5WFF)
- Kazakhstan: UN7ECA, Oleg Russkikh (UP44BFF)
- Bulgaria: LZ1HA, Todor Dikov (LZ01WFF)
- Scotland: MM0DFV, Yuri Funkner
- UK: M0OXO, Charles Wilmott (GB0WFF)
- Kyrgystan: EX8AB, Narynbek (Bek) Dzhunushev (EX9FF)
- Romania: YO3JW, Fenyo Stefan (YP1WFF)
- Polska: SP2FAP, Sylvester Jarkiewicz
- Italy: IK1GPG, Massimo Balsamo
- Lithuania: LY3X, Tomas Saltis
- Croatia: 9A2WJ, Daki, Milan Drlic
- Azerbaijan: 4J5T, Natig Kasimov (4J0WFF)
And the following were shown as Coordinators…..
- Russian: RN3GW/3, Andrey Voloschuk
- Russian: RA3AKF, Alexey Kozlov
- Ukraine:
- India: VU2UR, Arasu B.L.MANOHAR
- France: F5PBL, Claude TERRIER
- Israel: 4Z5KJ, Alex Goldenberg
- Belgium: ON3SSB, Gino Vandeweghe
- Croatia: 9A6AA, Emir Mahmutovic
- Hangary: HA0HW, Laci
- Azerbaijan: 4J5A, Sergey Gorobets
- HongKong: VR2XLN, Clive Tang
- Moldova: ER1RR, Alex Komarov
- Makedonia: Z35M, Vladimir Kovaceski
Greenday 2010…..
WFF Greenday 2010 was held on the 12th & 13th June, 2010.
Valery RW3GW described it as…..
"The radio amateurs of the whole world are invited to join us by having QSOs with radio stations working from territories of the national natural parks and reserves of the world - Especially Protected Nature Territories (EPNT) - included into the WFF Directory".
Valery RW3GW described it as…..
"The radio amateurs of the whole world are invited to join us by having QSOs with radio stations working from territories of the national natural parks and reserves of the world - Especially Protected Nature Territories (EPNT) - included into the WFF Directory".
2011…..
Changes soon…..
On 1st February, 2011, Valery RW3GW announced that there were proposed changes to the WFF system and that as of 1 March, 2011, there would be new WFF Diplomas and new WFF plaques.
The new website…..
By February, 2011, the new website was in use…..
http://wff44.org
http://wff44.org
WFF Foundation…..
By early 2011, the International WFF Foundation had been established.
The WFF website in February 2011, described the Foundation as…..
"The primary goal of WFF Fund is a technical and financial support of radio-expeditions to national parks and the reserves of the world, included in the list of WFF program."
It was advertised that any radio amateur, SWL, any organisation which supports the purposes and problems of WFF, can become a member of the International WFF Foundation.
Membership had several statuses:
The website stated…..
"Each member of the International WFF Foundation has the right to offer a great sum which will be publicly specified in the list of International WFF Foundation members. The International WFF Foundation Member certificate is sent to each member in acknowledgement."
The WFF website in February 2011, described the Foundation as…..
"The primary goal of WFF Fund is a technical and financial support of radio-expeditions to national parks and the reserves of the world, included in the list of WFF program."
It was advertised that any radio amateur, SWL, any organisation which supports the purposes and problems of WFF, can become a member of the International WFF Foundation.
Membership had several statuses:
- Membership/M - annual membership dues/20 euro
- Life Membership/LM (life membership) – one time membership dues/80 euro (special number on a choice!)
- Allied Member/AM (аssоciated member) – annual membership dues/80 euro
The website stated…..
"Each member of the International WFF Foundation has the right to offer a great sum which will be publicly specified in the list of International WFF Foundation members. The International WFF Foundation Member certificate is sent to each member in acknowledgement."
By 2011, the Foundation was being referred to as the WFF Foundation/Green Supporters Fund. Membership to the Foundation / Fund had been changed and involved the following….
1. Supporter/A
-an annual voluntary donation for Russia - 600 rubles
-an annual voluntary donation to CIS - 700 rubles
-an annual voluntary donation for EU & DX - 20 Euro
2. Life Supporter/lifelong supporter
-a one time voluntary donation - 100 Euro
3. Honour Supporter/Honorary supporter
-voluntary monthly ondation - 100 Euro/month.
1. Supporter/A
-an annual voluntary donation for Russia - 600 rubles
-an annual voluntary donation to CIS - 700 rubles
-an annual voluntary donation for EU & DX - 20 Euro
2. Life Supporter/lifelong supporter
-a one time voluntary donation - 100 Euro
3. Honour Supporter/Honorary supporter
-voluntary monthly ondation - 100 Euro/month.
A WFF reference list that I acquired (dated July, 2010) shows that there were over 2,900 qualifying WFF areas in the WFF program in over 60 countries.
Other programs introduced…..
During 2011, a number of other awards were introduced. They included…..
- PEA…..Planet Earth Award
- WIA…..World Islands Award
- WMA…..World Mountains Award
- WPA…..World Polar Award
- WVA…..World Volcanoes Award
- WCP…..World Caves Award
- WDA…..World Deserts Award
- WOA…..World Oceans Award
- WSA…..World Seas Award
- WLA…..World Lakes Award
- WRA…..World Rivers Award
- WWA…..World Waterfalls Award
- WLHA…..World Lighthouses Award
- WAA…..World Aerocrafts Award
- WSP…..World Space Program Award
- WAO…..World Astronomical Observatories Award
Allegations levelled at RW3GW…..
In mid 2011, allegations were subsequently levelled at Valery RW3GW, that amateurs were forwarding money for WFF Awards but not receiving any certificates & plaques for WFF awards, nor such documents as life time membership certificates. In fact some amateurs had been waiting for periods of up to 18 months.
It should be noted that the various National WFF programs were functioning well, and the various National award certificates were being issued.
In late 2011, a decision was made at the RRC Conference that Valery, RW3GW be excluded from RRC membership, 'until all the financial requests to WFF are successfully fulfilled'.
This was beginning of the end of the 'old' WFF program.
2012…..
A new WFF Committee
Despite the controversy, WFF activations continued with the enthusiasm of a large group of amateurs who wanted to see the Flora & Fauna progam survive. Suggestions were made for the survival of the program including renaming the WFF program. This included Global Flora & Fauna.
However, despite all the disquiet about certificates & plaques not being received, Valery RW3GW continued in his role as President of WFF.
In early April, 2012, it was announced by Valery RW3GW, that a new WFF Committee had been formed. Interestingly, it was Valery that 'proposed' and confirmed the majority of the WFF Committee.
The Committee consisted of the representatives from participating countries (not all)…..
However, despite all the disquiet about certificates & plaques not being received, Valery RW3GW continued in his role as President of WFF.
In early April, 2012, it was announced by Valery RW3GW, that a new WFF Committee had been formed. Interestingly, it was Valery that 'proposed' and confirmed the majority of the WFF Committee.
- Massimo IK1GPG…..Chairman
- Betty IK1QFM…..Secretary.
The Committee consisted of the representatives from participating countries (not all)…..
- 4J5T
- 4X4JU
- 5P0O
- 9A6AA
- DF6EX
- DL2VFR
- EI6DX
- ES4RX
- EW4DX
- F5SSN
- HA0HW
- I5FLN
- K8PG
- LU5VV
- N3GJ
- OE3RGB
- ON2SSB
- PA3FYG
- RA1ZZ
- RA3AKF
- SP2FAP
- UN7ECA
- UT7UT
- VA3RJ
- VU2UR
- YU3A
- Z35M
Official Basic Rules for the Chairman Committee WFF
1. Consider the WFF NEW ONEs applications from national diploma
programs in a series of Flora Fauna and individual radio amateurs,
where there is no national diploma programs in a series of Flora
Fauna(following to these rules of WFF program).
2. Updating the WFF Directory Refereces once a month.
3. Inform all Hams community (through info@... + WFF Forum,
etc)of all the WFF News.
4. Pursue the question of the appointment of an official and
authorized representative of the WFF programme in your country
(for residents, and in some cases for those who live there or
often happens in the country).
5. Consider the question of the appointment of the coordinator of the
WFF program in their country (as a rule at the initial stage of
cooperation with the right of further improvement in the status of
an official and authorized representative of the WFF program,
after 1-3 month preparatory period to national diploma program in
the series of Flora).
6. To conduct the negotiations and correspondence with all members of
the WFF Committee and if necessary (in controversial issues), to
spend the Protocol of voting between the members of the WFF
Committee.
7. Offer, to modify, add to the working rules of the WFF program in
coordination (through voting Protocol)with the members of the WFF
Committee.
8. The direct subordination of the President of the Fund WFF.
9. The rights and powers - up to 31 December 2012 (with possible
prolongation for the next year, after the provision of the report
on the done).
1. Consider the WFF NEW ONEs applications from national diploma
programs in a series of Flora Fauna and individual radio amateurs,
where there is no national diploma programs in a series of Flora
Fauna(following to these rules of WFF program).
2. Updating the WFF Directory Refereces once a month.
3. Inform all Hams community (through info@... + WFF Forum,
etc)of all the WFF News.
4. Pursue the question of the appointment of an official and
authorized representative of the WFF programme in your country
(for residents, and in some cases for those who live there or
often happens in the country).
5. Consider the question of the appointment of the coordinator of the
WFF program in their country (as a rule at the initial stage of
cooperation with the right of further improvement in the status of
an official and authorized representative of the WFF program,
after 1-3 month preparatory period to national diploma program in
the series of Flora).
6. To conduct the negotiations and correspondence with all members of
the WFF Committee and if necessary (in controversial issues), to
spend the Protocol of voting between the members of the WFF
Committee.
7. Offer, to modify, add to the working rules of the WFF program in
coordination (through voting Protocol)with the members of the WFF
Committee.
8. The direct subordination of the President of the Fund WFF.
9. The rights and powers - up to 31 December 2012 (with possible
prolongation for the next year, after the provision of the report
on the done).
In mid April, 2012, Charles M0OXO (GFF representative) ceased his involvement with WFF. His position was superseded by Andrew M6ADB.
The Foundation of a new program…..
Behind the scenes there were moves in place to create a new Flora and Fauna program. On c. 8th July, 2012, the Yahoo Group "WFF Committee" was launched by Steen, 5P0O.
Interestingly, there was no mention of this Yahoo group on the Yahoo group run by Valery RW3GW, despite the fact that Steen continued to post messages there.
Interestingly, there was no mention of this Yahoo group on the Yahoo group run by Valery RW3GW, despite the fact that Steen continued to post messages there.
In late July, 2012, Peter, ON2WAB, ceased his involvement with the WFF program.
Igor, EW4DX steps in…..
One month after the commencement of the 'WFF Committee' Yahoo Group, another Yahoo Group site commenced on 1st August, 2012, . This being called "FFI, Flora and Fauna International program". This Yahoo group was created by Igor, EW4DX, who was previously involved with WFF. On this Yahoo group, Igor stated:-
"I finished all cooperation with so-called WFF Fund and with Valery, RW3GW…."
Igor proposed the creation of a new Committee and a newly named program. His suggestion was Flora Fauna International. Other names were floated including National Flora Fauna, Flora Fauna Radio, International Flora Fauna Association, National Flora Fauna Association, DX Flora Fauna, Worldwide Flora Fauna Community, Radio Flora Fauna Community, HAMS Flora Fauna.
It was at this time that Igor ceased his involvement with the LogSearch facility. Valery RW3GW accounted a Green Log Search.
"I finished all cooperation with so-called WFF Fund and with Valery, RW3GW…."
Igor proposed the creation of a new Committee and a newly named program. His suggestion was Flora Fauna International. Other names were floated including National Flora Fauna, Flora Fauna Radio, International Flora Fauna Association, National Flora Fauna Association, DX Flora Fauna, Worldwide Flora Fauna Community, Radio Flora Fauna Community, HAMS Flora Fauna.
It was at this time that Igor ceased his involvement with the LogSearch facility. Valery RW3GW accounted a Green Log Search.
In August 2012, Ric DL2VFR, removed all WFF logos and reference to WFF from the DLFF Award website.
Also in August, 2012, Kent SM5ELV advised that SMFF would support the new Flora Fauna program.
Also in August, 2012, Kent SM5ELV advised that SMFF would support the new Flora Fauna program.
In September, 2012, Steen 5P0O (OZFF co-ordinator), and Jakob OZ7AEI (OZFF Award Manager) ceased their involvement with the WFF program.
In September, 2012, Oleg UN7ECA ceased his involvement with the WFF Commtitee.
In September, 20112, Bosko YU3A also ceased his involvement with the WFF Committee.
It was also at this time that DL4BBH and DL2VFR also ceased their involvement with WFF.
On 2nd October 2012, Valery posted on the WFF Committee Yahoo group
Allegiance was pledged to him by Laci HA0HW, and Araasu VU2UR.
Allegiance was pledged to him by Laci HA0HW, and Araasu VU2UR.
In October, 2012, Andrew M6ADB, announced the withdrawal of GFF from the WFF program.
It was again at this time that new name suggestions were made, including World Nature Reserves (WNR). Valery RW3GW proclaimed that 'WFF lives and will live'.
In mid October, 2012 it was announced by Max IK1GPG, that the WFF Committee had been terminated.
The following people held positions as officials within WFF at the time of its 'demise' (this is not to suggest they had any involvement - in fact many went on to the new WWFF program)…..
Valery RW3GW…..President
Massimo IK1GPG…..Committee Chairman
Betty IK1QFM…..Committee Secretary
Luciano I5FLN…..References Manager
Massimo IK1GPG…..References Manager
Igor EW4DX…..Log Entry & Search Manager
Friedrich DL4BBH…..Operations Approval Manager for countries without National FF
Manfred DF6EX…..as above
Enrico DL2VFR…..as above
Steen 5P0O…..Rules Revision Manager
Valery RW3GW…..President
Massimo IK1GPG…..Committee Chairman
Betty IK1QFM…..Committee Secretary
Luciano I5FLN…..References Manager
Massimo IK1GPG…..References Manager
Igor EW4DX…..Log Entry & Search Manager
Friedrich DL4BBH…..Operations Approval Manager for countries without National FF
Manfred DF6EX…..as above
Enrico DL2VFR…..as above
Steen 5P0O…..Rules Revision Manager
On 1st November, 2012, it was reported on both the WWFF Council Yahoo site, and the WFI Yahoo site, that the following Flora Fauna programs have joined the new Flora Fauna:
Following programs have not answered or are staying in the old program.
- 9AFF - 9A6AA, Emir
- DLFF - DF6EX Manfred & DL4BBH Friedrich
- EIFF - EI6DX Stan
- EWFF - EW4DX Igor
- EXFF - Bek, EX2B
- GFF - Andrew M6ADB
- HAFF - HA0HW, Laci
- HBFF - Swiss Flora Fauna - HB9TZA Augusto Battistoni
- IFF - IK1GPG Massimo & I5FLN Luciano
- OKFF - OK1IN, Pert & OK1XOE, Thomas
- ONFF - ON2SSB, Gino
- KFF - N3GJ, George
- KLFF - AL3T / DT7ET, Veit
- LUFF - LU5VV Jorge
- OYFF - OY3JW, Pit
- OZFF - OZ7AEI Jakob & 5P0O Steen
- PAFF - PA3FYG, Hans & PH0NO, Lars
- SMFF - SM5ELV, Kent
- SPFF - SP2FAP, Sylwester
- VEFF - VA3RJ, Dave
- VUFF - VU2UR, Arasu
- YOFF - YO3JW Pit
Following programs have not answered or are staying in the old program.
- CTFF - (DPRN) Diploma Parques & Reservas Naturals - CT1GFK Toze - Antonio Jose Rebelo Guerreiro
- E7FF - Bosnia Flora Fauna - E7ØYL Anela - Ani Karacic
- EAFF - Espana Flora Fauna - EC7KM (ex EA7HEG) Sebastian Marquez Mogedas
- ERFF - (MFFA) Moldavian Flora Fauna - ER3GS Sergey N. Galaychuk
- FFF - French Flora Fauna - F5SSN Marc Vergnes
- GMFF - Scotland Flora Fauna - MMØDFV Jurij Phunkner
- LYFF - Lithuanian Flora Fauna - LY3X Tomas Saltis
- LZFF - Bulgarian Flora Fauna - LZ2JR Boris Sapundzhiev
- RFF - Russian Flora Fauna - RA3AKF Aleksey I. Kozlov
- SVFF - Greece Flora Fauna - SV2GWY Demetrius Anastasiades
- UNFF - Kazakhstan Flora Fauna - UN7ECA Oleg Yu. Russkikh
- URFF - Ukrainian Flora Fauna - UT5LU,UT7UT Igor B. Gutnik, Boris B. Samartsev
- Z3FF - Macedonia Flora Fauna - Z35M, Vladimir Kovaceski
A new Flora & Fauna program is born…..
In November, 2012, the Flora and Fauna program was officially relaunched as WorldWide Flora and Fauna, abbreviated as WWFF (WWFF).
A poll question had been initiated on the WFF Committee Yahoo group, with a number of names being suggested for the new program. Below are the results…..
The original Chairman of the newly formed WWFF was Lars PH0NO. The Vice-chairman was Max IK1GPG. The WWFF program is run by the Chairman an Vice-chairman elected by the National co-ordinators of the member countries (the WWFF Council).
The following officials help in the running of the WWFF program…..
Max IK1GPG…..WWFF References Manager
Luciano I5FLN……as above
Friedrich DL4BBH…..Operations Approval Manager for countries without National FF representation.
Manfred DF6EX…..as above
DL2VFR Enrico…..as above
Lars PH0NO…..Web Master
Andrew M6ADB…..Log database Admin
Petr OK1IN…..Forum Admin
Pit YO3JW…..Award Manager
As you can see, some of these people were previously involved with WFF, and have continued to perform functions within the new WWFF program.
A poll question had been initiated on the WFF Committee Yahoo group, with a number of names being suggested for the new program. Below are the results…..
- Flora Fauna……….4 votes (22.22 %)
- Amateur Radio in Flora & Fauna……….1 vote (5.56 %)
- Ham Flora Fauna……….3 votes (16.67 %)
- Flora Fauna International……….2 votes (11.11 %)
- Flora Fauna World Wide……….2 votes (11.11 %)
- Wireless Flora Fauna……….0 votes
- World Wide Flora Fauna (WWFF)……….6 votes (33.33 %)
The original Chairman of the newly formed WWFF was Lars PH0NO. The Vice-chairman was Max IK1GPG. The WWFF program is run by the Chairman an Vice-chairman elected by the National co-ordinators of the member countries (the WWFF Council).
The following officials help in the running of the WWFF program…..
Max IK1GPG…..WWFF References Manager
Luciano I5FLN……as above
Friedrich DL4BBH…..Operations Approval Manager for countries without National FF representation.
Manfred DF6EX…..as above
DL2VFR Enrico…..as above
Lars PH0NO…..Web Master
Andrew M6ADB…..Log database Admin
Petr OK1IN…..Forum Admin
Pit YO3JW…..Award Manager
As you can see, some of these people were previously involved with WFF, and have continued to perform functions within the new WWFF program.
After much debate, a logo for the newly formed WWFF was designed by Pit, YO3FW. It features a globe of the earth with a radio tower.
The website for WWFF (which was established in November, 2012 by Lars PH0NO) can be located at…..
http://www.wwff.co
http://www.wwff.co
'Global' awards were not issued at this time of the WWFF program. However awards were issued by the individual participating National member countries.
On the 6th November, 2012, Version 1.1 of the Rules was released. This included all references to WFF and awards being removed.
On the 26th November, 2012, Version 2 of the Rules was released.
On the 3rd December, 2012, Version 2.1 of the Rules was released.
On the 29th December, 2012, Version 3. of the Rules was released.
On the 14th January, 2013, Version 3.1 of the Rules was released.
On the 26th November, 2012, Version 2 of the Rules was released.
On the 3rd December, 2012, Version 2.1 of the Rules was released.
On the 29th December, 2012, Version 3. of the Rules was released.
On the 14th January, 2013, Version 3.1 of the Rules was released.
2013…..
Exit Igor EW4DX…..
Due to personal disagreements, Igor EW4DX, ceased any involvement with the new WWFF program. Igor stated…..
"…I don't consider it necessary to continue the work. I do not like many things in new WWFF program…."
Negotiations were made between Andrew M6ADB and Igor, for the contents of the LogSearch database. Sadly, Igor declined to co-operate and refused to provide any information from the LogSearch program.
"…I don't consider it necessary to continue the work. I do not like many things in new WWFF program…."
Negotiations were made between Andrew M6ADB and Igor, for the contents of the LogSearch database. Sadly, Igor declined to co-operate and refused to provide any information from the LogSearch program.
In early February, 2013, Boris UT7UT (URFF Manager) joined the WWFF program.
This was followed by Valery YL2SW, Ingus YL2TW, & Ervins YL2CQ.
A new logging program…..
Andrew M6ADB was instrumental in establishing the new WWFF LogSearch facility. This commenced on February 16th, 2013. The WFF log commenced by Igor EW4DX was no longer being maintained, and this was the reason for Andrew creating the new LogSearch facility. Sadly Igor would not assist in providing historical data from that log, so a huge amount of work went into tracking down activator to re load their logs into the new database.
http://logsearch.wwff.co/index.php
http://logsearch.wwff.co/index.php
Work continues to collect historic logs by local co-ordinators, so that they can be uploaded onto the database.
A WWFF Forum was also initiated in February, 2013. Petr, OK1IN & Andrew M6ADB are the Administrators of the forum.
http://forum.wwff.co
http://forum.wwff.co
So how did Australia become involved in WWFF ???
In February / March, 2013, Paul VK5PAS began to activate South Australian summits as part of the Summits on the Air (SOTA) program. He also commenced work on an awards program which encouraged portable operation from South Australia's National Parks and Conservation Parks. Paul had worked various 'WFF activators' from Europe in the past, so he was aware of the WFF program. He wanted to consolidate a list of South Australian SOTA peaks, VK5 National Parks, and VK5 Conservation Parks, with parks that were in the WFF program in South Australia. However the WFF Directory was not broken down into separate Australian States, and this made the process difficult. E-mails were sent to WFF officials to establish if there was a list which was separated into the different Australian States. Sadly there was not a single reply to a number of e-mails.
Contact was then made with Paul's QSL Manager, Charles M0OXO, as it was revealed that Charles was previously the English rep for WFF. It was established from Charles at this time, that the WFF program was no longer running, and that a new program had commenced.
In February / March, 2013, Paul VK5PAS began to activate South Australian summits as part of the Summits on the Air (SOTA) program. He also commenced work on an awards program which encouraged portable operation from South Australia's National Parks and Conservation Parks. Paul had worked various 'WFF activators' from Europe in the past, so he was aware of the WFF program. He wanted to consolidate a list of South Australian SOTA peaks, VK5 National Parks, and VK5 Conservation Parks, with parks that were in the WFF program in South Australia. However the WFF Directory was not broken down into separate Australian States, and this made the process difficult. E-mails were sent to WFF officials to establish if there was a list which was separated into the different Australian States. Sadly there was not a single reply to a number of e-mails.
Contact was then made with Paul's QSL Manager, Charles M0OXO, as it was revealed that Charles was previously the English rep for WFF. It was established from Charles at this time, that the WFF program was no longer running, and that a new program had commenced.
Paul VK5PAS then made contact with Andrew M6ADB, Steen 5P0O, & Lars PH0NO, who were all involved in the new WWFF program.
In March, 2013, Paul VK5PAS, officially became the Australian co-ordinator for the new WWFF program. Only through a series of e-mails was it uncovered that Bill VK4FW had previously been the Australian representative for the old WFF program.
A set of rules specific to Australian activations was drafted & released. This included the reduction in required QSO's for an activation from 44 to 10. This was due to Australia's geographical situation & demographics.
The Australian WWFF (VKFF) website was created at this time.
http://wwffaustralia.weebly.com
A set of rules specific to Australian activations was drafted & released. This included the reduction in required QSO's for an activation from 44 to 10. This was due to Australia's geographical situation & demographics.
The Australian WWFF (VKFF) website was created at this time.
http://wwffaustralia.weebly.com
Additionally a series of certificates were offered for operating from / contacting Australian parks on the WWFF list.
Peter VK3ZPF was the first Australian operator to apply for the Activator Award.
Ron VK3AFW was the first Australian operator to apply for the Hunter award.
Peter VK3ZPF was the first Australian operator to apply for the Activator Award.
Ron VK3AFW was the first Australian operator to apply for the Hunter award.
Growth of WWFF…..
The WWFF program continued to expand during this period, and in February, 2013, Portugal, Latvia, Estonia, and Ukraine joined WWFF.
On the 3rd March, 2013, Version 4.0 of the Rules was released. It was updated due to Igor EW4DX ceasing involvement with WWFF.In March, 2013, Bulgaria and Spain joined the WWFF community.
On the 3rd March, 2013, Version 4.0 of the Rules was released. It was updated due to Igor EW4DX ceasing involvement with WWFF.In March, 2013, Bulgaria and Spain joined the WWFF community.
In March, 2013, Lars PH0NO was appointed as Interim Chairman of WWFF. Manfred was appointed as Interim Co-Chairman
In March, 2013, Boris LZ2JR joined the WWFF program.
In early April, 2013, the name of the WFF Committee Yahoo group was changed to WWFF Council.
WWFF Facebook page created…..
In late April, 2013, a WWFF Facebook page was launched. There are currently 61 members of the group.
VKFF logo…..
In May, 2013, a logo / emblem was designed for VKFF (Australia).
It consists of a Western Grey kangaroo with the WWFF global emblem, and a map of Australia superimposed with the Australian flag.
It consists of a Western Grey kangaroo with the WWFF global emblem, and a map of Australia superimposed with the Australian flag.
Election of WWFF officials…..
In May, 2013, Lars PH0NO and Max IK1GPG were voted in as WWFF Chairman and Vice-chairman, respectively.
Voting was as follows…..
Max IK1GPG Chairman - Lars PH0NO Vice Chairman……….3 votes (14.29 %)
Lars PH0NO Chairman - Max IK1GPG Vice Chairman……….18 votes (85.71 %)
Lars briefly stood down as the Chairman, but returned to the position in June, 2013.
Voting was as follows…..
Max IK1GPG Chairman - Lars PH0NO Vice Chairman……….3 votes (14.29 %)
Lars PH0NO Chairman - Max IK1GPG Vice Chairman……….18 votes (85.71 %)
Lars briefly stood down as the Chairman, but returned to the position in June, 2013.
Constitution…..
In September, 2013, a Constitution was released for the WFF program. This was an important step forward for WWFF, as prior to this WWFF lacked significant direction. As the Constitution states…..
"It holds the most important rules that govern the way WWFF organisation operates".
The Constitution confirmed that the correct name regarding the running of the WWFF program was 'Council of the World Wide Flora and Fauna program'. It stated…..
"The Council is a representation of the national Flora and Fauna programs that support th WWFF program. For each participating country in WWFF up to two members can join …"
"It holds the most important rules that govern the way WWFF organisation operates".
The Constitution confirmed that the correct name regarding the running of the WWFF program was 'Council of the World Wide Flora and Fauna program'. It stated…..
"The Council is a representation of the national Flora and Fauna programs that support th WWFF program. For each participating country in WWFF up to two members can join …"
End of the Council Yahoo group…..
At the end of August 2013 it was announced by Lars PH0NO, that the WWFF Council Yahoo Group would close. The group was closed on 1st September, 2013. Official communications were transferred to the WWFF Forum.
A new WWFF Awards program is born….
In late October, 2013, WWFF announced a new global ham radio award program based on the WWFF LogSearch database. There are two awards on offer - one for Hunters, and one for Activators.
The WWFF Hunter Award starts at 44 WWFF references with upgraded steps of 44, up to 444 WWFF references, and then steps of 100. A 'Novice' award has been added, especially for new Hunters of the WWFF program.
The WWFF Activator Award commenced at 11 references and has upgraded steps of 11 references.
There are plans to expand the award program in the future, adding awards for special categories for both Hunters and Activators.
The WWFF Hunter Award starts at 44 WWFF references with upgraded steps of 44, up to 444 WWFF references, and then steps of 100. A 'Novice' award has been added, especially for new Hunters of the WWFF program.
The WWFF Activator Award commenced at 11 references and has upgraded steps of 11 references.
There are plans to expand the award program in the future, adding awards for special categories for both Hunters and Activators.
WWFF becoming a popular program…..
As of 12th December, 2013, there are 35 participating countries in the WWFF program. The following National Flora & Fauna programs take part in the WWFF program…..
- Alaska
- Algeria
- Argentina
- Australia
- Austria
- Belgium
- Brazil
- Bulgaria
- Canada
- Croatia
- Czech Republic
- Denmark
- England/Wales
- France
- Germany
- Greece
- Hungary
- India
- Ireland
- Italy
- Kryguzstahn
- Latvia
- Lithuania
- Malaysia
- Netherlands
- Poland
- Portugal
- Romania
- Serbia
- Spain
- Sweden
- Switzerland
- Tunisia
- Ukraine
- USA
As of 12th December, 2013, there were 3,289,515 QSO's in the new WWFF Log Search database, from 4,072 different references around the world.
2016
In February 2016 the new WWFF website was launched.
November
On 10th November 2016 it was announced on the wwff.co website by Luk ON4BB, the WWFF Chairman, that Version 5.0 of the WWFF global rules had been completed and would come into effect as of 1st December 2016. It was advised that old rules such as 2 hours between activities and 2 hour duration of an activation were deleted, making the WWFF program much simpler.
December
Version 5.0 of the WWFF Global rules became valid as of 1st December 2016.
2017
January
On the 17th January 2017 it was announced on the wwff.co website that the WWFF program was seeking persons to fill six elected positions as Continental Representatives for North America, South America, Oceania, Europe, Africa, and Asia.It was also announced that WWFF was seeking a Chairman.
February
On the 8th February 2017 the election results were announced on the wwff.co website. Paul VK5PAS was appointed as WWFF Chairman and was the only candidate. There were no nominations for Africa Continental Representative, nor any nominations for South America Continental Representative. Other positions filled were as follows....
Asia Continental Representative..........Nobi JA1JCF
Europe Continental Representative..........Jakob OZ7AEI
North America Continental Representative..........Jason W3AAX
Oceania Continental Representative..........Peter VK3ZPF
Asia Continental Representative..........Nobi JA1JCF
Europe Continental Representative..........Jakob OZ7AEI
North America Continental Representative..........Jason W3AAX
Oceania Continental Representative..........Peter VK3ZPF
IN SUMMARY
So, as you can see, WFF & WWFF have had interesting histories.
Recommendations…..
Some of my recommendations…..
1. Please do not use the WFF Yahoo Group. The appropriate place to record information, comments, and intended activations is the WWFF Forum or the Facebook page. If in Australia, you can also place your intended activations on the WWFFAustralia Yahoo Group.
2. Please refer to the program as WWFF and not WFF. Yes, I know that similarities in the names of the programs are confusing.
3. Please, submit your log via e-mail (in ADIF format) to VK5PAS by e-mail if you have activated a VKFF area.
4. If you know of anyone who has activated a VKFF area, please explain the WWFF program to them, and ask them to submit their log to VK5PAS, so that it can be uploaded to the database.
5. If you do spot someone on the cluster, please use the current reference of WWFF and not WFF.
2. Please refer to the program as WWFF and not WFF. Yes, I know that similarities in the names of the programs are confusing.
3. Please, submit your log via e-mail (in ADIF format) to VK5PAS by e-mail if you have activated a VKFF area.
4. If you know of anyone who has activated a VKFF area, please explain the WWFF program to them, and ask them to submit their log to VK5PAS, so that it can be uploaded to the database.
5. If you do spot someone on the cluster, please use the current reference of WWFF and not WFF.
Information sourced from…..
1. http://robinsons.ru
2. http://www.wwff.co
3. http://forums.qrz.com
4. http://www.wff44.org
5. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/International_Year_of_Planet_Earth
6. http://www.rdxc.org7. http://wff.qrz.ru/wff-eng.html
7. Bill Horner, VK4FW8.
8. http://wff.pannondxc.hu
9. Steen, 5P0O
10. Lars, PH0NO
11. groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/wff44
12. http://www.wff44.com