The Woodlands Mesh is building a free, off-grid communication network powered by small, low-powered radio devices that relay text messages across a peer-to-peer network of mesh devices (nodes), enabling:
- Off-grid messaging during infrastructure outages
- Community bulletins and alerts
- STEM learning and IoT experimentation
Community Mesh Sponsorship
If you have a good location that will help your local LoRa mesh networks (MeshCore™ /or Meshtastic®), consider supporting your community by becoming a business or individual sponsored node host by placing a solar-powered node atop your building, residence, or your tower.
ATTENTION BUSINESS OWNERS
We’re building a community-sponsored, solar powered decentralized network that helps people stay connected when cell service or internet goes down. (see What is a Mesh? and also “Explain it like I’m 5 years old” found at ELi5 or MESH101)
Help Support Your Community’s LoRa Project
Host a Solar-Powered Mesh Node
Your location may be just what your neighbors need to ensure that their LoRa device signals reach family & friends in nearby communities, and reach emergency services during a grid-down power outage.
CONTACT: Location Available Signup | Sponsor a Location Signup (donation)
You can help just by letting us place a small, self-powered node device on your property. The device is a LoRa radio that repeats text messages from small devices that fit in a pocket.
The self-powered node device runs on battery and solar (much like a solar-powered landscape lamp), so it doesn’t touch your power.
We attach the solar node device using small clamps or straps (no drilling, no screws), on a pole, fence, tree, or even on signage. You won’t even know it’s there.
We never show up unannounced. If we ever need access (rarely), it’s only at a time you choose.
You’d be giving your community a free, resilient backup communication link – especially valuable if you’re on a hill, tall building, or have a tower.
Key Benefits: Community Goodwill & LoRa Mesh Access
Help your neighbors, hikers, bikers, and emergency services stay connected
· Low cost – Hardware costs are subsidized by the organization
· No work – We install and maintain everything.
· No damage – No drilling, bolting, or permanent modification.
· No hassle – We access only by appointment, only if needed.
· Minimal presence – Firmware updates happen from street level; you don’t need to do anything.
Access Policy
We need permission to reach the node only if it stops working – which is rare. We will never show up without a prearranged time you’ve agreed to. No 2am visits, no surprises. Most of the time, even firmware updates happen wirelessly from nearby ground level.
Attachment Methods
Infrastructure attachment pole / streetlight rubber-lined clamp
Chain-link fence zip-tie or clamp mount
Tree branch hanging enclosure (weatherproof)
Existing radio tower clamp to leg (no welding/bolting)
Billboard / building edge strap or magnetic mount (non-penetrating)
Water tower strap around railing or ladder
OUR MESH COMMUNITY NEEDS:
- Business owners with prime locations (between sites, tall buildings, tall signage)
- Family / friends with elevated property
- Local ham radio operators / clubs – they often have towers and understand the value
- State or national parks – especially if they have mountain peaks or fire lookouts (offer emergency coms benefit)
No cost. No work. No drilling. Just a solar node that helps the community stay connected.
CONTACT: Location Available Signup
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