[NTX_NTS] "Volume Traffic" added to PSCM

[Herman I. May]

The Web-based ARRL Public Service Communications Manual has now been
updated to include the new segment about "Volume Routine Traffic."
As you'll recall, this addition was approved recently by the ARRL's
Programs and Services Committee.

The PSCM is found on the ARRL Web page at this address:
http://www.arrl.org/FandES/field/pscm/

The paragraph reads:

3.16 Volume Routine Traffic

Originating routine traffic in volume has the potential to lower
delivery percentages thereby diminishing the viability of the system
as a back-up for emergency use, simply because "operating enjoyment"
becomes "work" and amateur radio operators with limited time are
generally willing and able to cope with only finite quantities of
routine messages. While in emergencies these amateur operators would
be willing to move volumes of traffic at a sacrifice of time in the
interest of public service, the origination and transmission through
NTS of large volumes of routine messages over an infinite period of
time, especially those with common texts to addressees unknown to the
originator and absent of time value, can be counter-productive to the
system's purpose and structure.

While such routine messages are welcome and indeed necessary for the
continued training and practice of operators and for maintenance of
the system, it may be necessary for NTS Area Staff Chairs, in
consultation with their respective staffs, to establish guidelines for
volume traffic in order to maintain the over-all health of the system.

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This addition has been added to the PSCM's Section II: National
Traffic System (NTS), Chapter Three: NTS Policies.
[from Steve Ewald, WV1X]