What is Meshtastic?
Meshtastic is an open-source, decentralized mesh network built on inexpensive LoRa radios. It enables long-range, license-free communication for text, locations, and data—up to miles in rural areas like ours. No ham radio license needed! It works by creating a peer-to-peer system where nodes automatically relay messages, forming a resilient off-grid platform without relying on internet or cell service.
About Our Community
We are a community group building a mesh network in Central South Dakota. We are a group of makers, tech enthusiasts, and amateur radio operators who are passionate about building a resilient, decentralized, and community-owned communications network.
Our community is currently focused on deploying the Meshtastic platform: an open-source, long-range, low-power mesh networking solution that uses inexpensive, off-the-shelf LoRa radios. We are working to build a network that can provide emergency communications, support local events, and foster collaboration among our members.
Why in Central South Dakota?
Our vast open spaces and remote spots make Meshtastic ideal for staying connected during hunts, camping, RV trips, or power outages. We’re linking Pierre with surrounding areas via community nodes, including solar-powered basestations for reliability.
Key Features
- Decentralized: Nodes automatically rebroadcast messages to extend range.
- Off-Grid: Works without internet or cell service.
- Versatile: Share GPS positions, weather data, or chat in public/private channels.
- Community-Driven: 100% volunteer-built, like our setups with MQTT for global sharing.
Legal and Operational Notes
The Central South Dakota Mesh network operates in the 915 MHz ISM band, which is legal for unlicensed use in the United States. We are committed to operating within the bounds of the law and promoting responsible radio use. (For example, up to 1W transmit power without a license; higher with an amateur radio license.)