About the Project

History of the NLP program, contacts and useful information

About the Program

The PNA Award Program (NLP — Nature Landmarks Program) is a ham radio program dedicated to the Protected Natural Areas (PNA) of the Russian Federation.

The program was established on January 11, 1997, Russia's Day of Nature Reserves and National Parks, by amateur radio operator R2RDA (Alexander Varnikov) with the support of the Nizhny Novgorod Radio Club (KNR).

The goal is to promote PNA through amateur radio, drawing attention to the preservation of Russia's natural heritage.

Contacts

  • Director: R2RDA — Alexander Varnikov
  • Email: info@nlap.ru
  • Telegram: NLP program channel
  • Organization: KNR — Nizhny Novgorod Radio Club

Partners

  • KNR — Nizhny Novgorod Radio Club (knr3t.ru)
  • RKT — Tambov Robinson (rct3r.ru)
  • VNII ECOLOGY — PNA reference data

Useful Links

Nature and Radio

The beauty of Russia's PNA through the lens of expedition participants

73 91! — greeting of NLP program participants. The number 91 = NL (Nature Landmark) — the program's symbol. Join the community of amateur radio operators who combine PNA expeditions with on-air activity!

Development Recommendations

Suggestions for improving the NLP award program based on analysis

1

Lower Entry Barrier

91 QSOs is a high threshold for beginners. Consider introducing a 'Beginner' level with 10-30 QSOs to attract new amateur radio operators.

2

Online Log Verification

Automated log checking instead of manual moderation would speed up the process and reduce moderator workload.

3

Participant Progress Bar

A visual progress bar toward the next award level motivates participants and shows the remaining path.

4

Activation Calendar

Planning and announcing expeditions would help hunters know when and where activators will be operating.

5

Electronic Awards

Instant PDF award generation upon reaching a level — convenient and eco-friendly.

6

Photo Gallery

Since 3 photos are already required for activation — create a gallery with the best PNA expedition photos.

7

Map Integration

Display activated PNA sites on the interactive map with dates and activator callsigns.

8

Mobile Log Submission

The ability to submit logs via Telegram bot or mobile app directly from the field.