[Lowfer] Another Antenna question - Wet Ground Issue

[Ed Phillips]

KU4XR wrote:

>I can see Warrens point of view. At broadcast frequencies; The rule of thumb is:
>The wetter, the better. But we're talking 200 plus foot towers, that are already 
>close to resonance, and full 120 radial ground systems the length of the tower.
>In this case, the wet ground is beneficial. BUT !!! for a 50 foot long radiator
>that should be at least 1300 feet long with matching radials to be resonant only
>somewhat, If my understanding is anywhere close to correct, the wet ground in relation
>to the 50 foot radiator, would make it electrically appear " submerged " and in essence
>shorted / grounded out, whichever term best fits, and I may be " washed out " in my
>theory. I am quickly finding out that collecting the parts, and building the xmtr
>is a walk in the park. The antenna is becoming the " Rocket Science "
>Thank men for all of your input. 73, Andy - KU4XR
>
    Experience here at IZJ [Southern California, lousy ground 
conductivity at best] is that on those rare occasions when we have 
enough rain to really soak the ground the antenna current goes up 
significantly.  Theory [and practice in my experience] says that the 
higher the ground conductivity the lower the system losses and the 
higher the efficiency.  Bottom line is that I think you're mistaken and 
that when you get your station up and running you'll find that "wet is 
better" although by how much depends on the quality of your ground 
system to begin with.  Wet tree limbs touching the tower are another 
matter............................................

Ed