VHF Channel 71 Designated as a Port Operations Channel The request of the Puget Sound Pilots to have VHF Channel 71 designated as a low power Port Operations Channel within the area of VTS Puget Sound was approved by the Federal Communications Commission, by Order DA 04-3408, which was released by the Commission on October 28, 2004, published in the Federal Register on December 23, 2004, and became effective on January 24, 2005. The Coast Guard considered the request of the Puget Sound Pilots and concurred that Channel 71 (156.575MHz) at a normal power of one watt (exceptionally 10 watts) be authorized for use limited to use by Puget Sound Pilots for ship handling and docking within the area covered by VTS Puget Sound. The Coast Guard agreed that the designation of Channel 71 for the exclusive use by Pilots will enhance maritime safety in these busy waterways. On March 12, 2004, the Coast Guard submitted a request to the Bureau of Public Safety and Critical Infrastructure Division recommending that VHF Channel 71 be authorized for use by Puget Sound Pilots for communications related to ship movement and docking at a normal power of one watt (exceptionally 10 watts) in the area covered by VTS Puget Sound. Home | About RBAW | Boater News | Events Calendar Our Members | You Can Help | Join RBAW | Contact Us Design & Development by Dan Larsen