About ERSN

Ebbetts Pass is home to some of Earth’s oldest and most majestic trees—the Giant Sequoias, or "Big Trees"—and is recognized as one of the United States' most Scenic Highways. The Ebbetts Radio Safety Net (ERSN) was born from a deep reverence for the natural beauty of this region and a shared responsibility among residents to uphold the highest standards of stewardship. Our guiding principle is simple: “An ounce of preparation is worth a pound of cure.”

Fires, earthquakes, and storms are as much a part of this landscape as the towering Sequoias. Fortunately, communities across California and throughout the US have proven the remarkable effectiveness of GMRS (General Mobile Radio Service) technology in safeguarding people and ecosystems. By leveraging GMRS radios, ERSN ensures that residents along California’s Highway 4 corridor stay connected when conventional communication systems fail. This network is a lifeline in times of crisis, providing real-time coordination and ensuring no one is left isolated during emergencies.

In an era increasingly reliant on vulnerable infrastructure, ERSN highlights the enduring power of human connection, strengthened by technology and a commitment to mutual aid. Through weekly check-ins, equipment support, and an unwavering focus on community resilience, ERSN fosters a network of neighbors helping neighbors. Every new participant enhances the strength and reach of this vital safety net.

Joining is simple! Email us at ersnnets@gmail.com, and let us help you contribute to a safer, more connected community.

Together, we can ensure the well-being of all who call this incredible region home.

In gratitude

We especially thank our sister community of Pine Mountain Club in Southern California and neigboring Tuolumne's GMRS Community for their critical support in our first-year formation and growth.

In Memoriam

We dedicate ERSN to the people who lost lives and property in Paradise and neighboring areas during the Camp Fire.

Guiding Principles

Community First: Prioritize the safety, well-being, and empowerment of the Highway 4 community. Build trust and inclusivity through shared responsibility and open communication.
Preparedness Saves Lives: Encourage proactive readiness for emergencies through regular training, drills, and knowledge-sharing. Equip members with tools and skills to respond effectively in crises.
Reliability Through Simplicity: Use proven, accessible, and user-friendly technologies to create a dependable communication network that works when other systems fail.
Mutual Aid and Support: Foster a culture of neighbors helping neighbors, where individuals come together to support each other in times of need, both during and outside emergencies.
Continuous Improvement: Adapt to evolving threats and community needs by seeking feedback, learning from real-world events, and embracing new strategies and technologies when beneficial.
Respect for Nature and Place: Recognize the unique challenges and beauty of living in the Sierra Nevada. Strive to balance safety with stewardship of the land and its resources.
Inclusivity and Accessibility: Ensure that participation in ERSN is open to all community members, regardless of technical expertise or background, by providing education and outreach tailored to diverse needs.
Collaboration and Partnerships: Work with local organizations, emergency services, and government entities to strengthen the region’s overall disaster resilience and ensure seamless coordination in emergencies.
Accountability and Transparency: Operate with integrity, maintaining clear communication about ERSN’s goals, plans, and operations, while respecting the privacy and autonomy of its members.
Stay Connected, Stay Safe: Promote the core mission of staying connected during emergencies as a vital step to saving lives, reducing harm, and empowering the community to face challenges together.