[BC] Chuck's AM Grounding Question

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Chuck,

I would recall a story about... Cows.  This is a story related to me by a
guy a few years ago.

A small 250 watter (Email me if you need details) is in the very dry parts
of South Texas.  Owner inquired and found out it is against the rules to
"Water" the transmitter site to change the conductivity.  Owner decided to
allow a couple of cows to graze under the tower.  Built a couple of
shelters.  Added several large water tanks.  (The great big couple of feet
high, 15-20 feet across metal ones).  Put four around the tower about 20-30
yards apart.  Attached piping and "Floats" to keep them full.
"Accidentally" poked a couple of small holes in each when installing.

Station range increased dramatically.

Cows are happy.  Owner is happy.  FCC visited and actually remarked...
"Raising cattle?  I guess you have to do whatever you have to in these
times".  That was 20 years ago.  Station has since sold.  Not sure if new
owner knows the benefits of cows.

Station is routinely "Audible" at 80 miles.  Not "Usable" but
"Understandable".

Don't water your transmitter site.  Raise cows.

YMMV and I am NOT a lawyer.

-----Original Message-----

From: Chuck Conrad

I'm looking at a 5 KW AM in an area with very poor ground conductivity,  I'm
told it is a "4".  Would increasing the number of radials (or making them
longer) help with coverage?  Are there any other tricks to improve the
ground situation?  I realize it is impossible to make any promises without a
full site survey, but any answer in gereral terms would be appreciated.

Thanks!

Chuck Conrad
KZQX Radio, QX-FM
www.kzqx.com or www.qx-fm.com