The Upper Delaware Scenic and Recreational River effectively employs a series of Advisory Radio Stations

This network of stations attracts visitors from the Interstate and local highways, informing them about several interpretive points in the park as well as many natural features along the historic Delaware River. The stations broadcast on AM frequency 1610 under the call signs KPC712 and KPC716. Read Connie Lloyd's review below.

By Connie Lloyd
Upper Delaware Scenic & Recreational River

As part of the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System, Upper Delaware Scenic and Recreational River (UPDE) stretches 73.4 miles along the New York-Pennsylvania border. As one of the longest and cleanest free-flowing (undammed) rivers in the eastern United States, the Upper Delaware features riffles and class I and II rapids. While most of the land along the river is privately owned, there is ample opportunity for canoeing, kayaking, rafting, tubing, fishing and eagle watching. Upper Delaware's cultural resources include the remnants of a once-busy canal, the nations oldest existing wire cable suspension bridge and the home of western author Zane Grey.

The radio station was founded in or around 1988 to offer visitors more information when entering the river valley from the southern entrance. The main intent was to enlighten visitors about the unique features in this area, to remind them that most of the land is private and to let them know of fishing and boating regulations.

To date, we have encountered no real difficulties on the project. Reaching a larger audience has been our primary intent; and comments from the public have all been positive.

We update messages on a seasonal basis. To alert inbound visitors to tune in, we strategically placed large signs on major highways feeding into the park. The stations themselves are located at the northern and southern termini of park boundaries. We air messages regarding available services and facility opening times. In the winter season, we broadcast a message specifically directed at Upper Delaware's winter eagle population. We are now in the process of establishing broadcasts for parking area to tell listeners about UPDE cultural resources. 

Other interpreters seeking effective ways to reach the public will find information radio stations very useful for communicating to visitors very specific information.

Our experiences of working with ISS have been VERY positive. Company reps provided information and advice about signage and station locations, along with complete setup and maintenance. Everyone in the office has been helpful and available.

• Upper Delaware Scenic and Recreational River website.
• Information Station mainpage.