What Is A Prefecture?

The Tripoli Rocketry Association is made up of "Prefectures." These are local groups geographically, that organizes meetings, events and launches for the benefits of their members and those from other prefectures. The following is a description of Tripoli’s prefectures and where the name came about.

Prefecture is a word from Roman times used to denote a self-governing body, or area. Much like a state, or city. It was basically left to its own devices as far as how it was run, it's only catch was that it owed its allegiance to Rome.

A Prefect was the head of the Prefecture. He was the line to, and the responsible body for, Rome.

We've taken these words, and slightly altered them, to fit our modern time, and needs. A Prefecture is a self-governing group of rocketry enthusiasts in a specific area of the country. This may be a club, a society, or just a group. There must be at least three people to be designated a Prefecture. And the Prefecture shall support, by membership, and uphold, by actions, the goals and future of the Tripoli Rocketry Association, Inc. It's activities will not be controlled by the National Association except in the compliance of the Association's Safety Code, Motor purchasing and handling, and compliance with governmental regulations involving unmanned non-professional rockets.

A Prefecture's name may be anything the members designate. The official name has "Tripoli" in it. For example: "Tripoli Nebraska" or "Tripoli Chicago" and represents the general geographic name for the area covered. A prefecture can also have a group name such as "L.I.A.R.S. - Long Island Advanced Rocketry Society" which is officially known as "Tripoli Long Island."

The head of a Prefecture is called a Prefect. This is usually the one responsible for the formation of the Prefecture. It could be the local President, or a designated member. The Prefect must be a responsible person, 21 or older, been a member of Tripoli Rocketry Association for 1 year and Certified Level 2 with the Tripoli Rocketry Association, Inc.

The Prefects' duties will be to oversee the Prefectures’ compliance with the rules and regulations as required. They are authorized, as agents of the corporation, to certify Tripoli Rocketry Association members to level 1 and level 2 for the purchase and use of motors in the applicable power ranges. They are also responsible for keeping the Association posted as to their activities, both as a group and any individual advancement.

As everyone knows it is a lot more enjoyable to fly with a group of friends, than to Lone Ranger it on your own. Prefectures are a way to expand one's assets and abilities. Yes, we all have friends who can do things for each other, but with a unified group, it makes one's involvement with others more personal and satisfying. If you already have a group, or club, or wish to form one dedicated to Advanced Rocketry, contact Tripoli headquarters today. The Tripoli Rocketry Association will be happy to supply you with a list of Tripoli members in your area.


How Do You Start A New Prefecture?

Tripoli has seen significant growth. This is due in part to the growth in the number of Prefectures. A Prefecture is a club or group of Tripoli members that serves a given geographic area.

One of the functions of the Prefecture is to assist new members in receiving their certifications. The Prefect, who is the leader of the Prefecture, performs certifications. The Prefect can bestow level 1 and level 2 certifications and administer the level 2 certification examination.
Note: Level 3 certifications can only be performed by TAP members.

Since the Prefect is the leader of the Prefecture, this individual must have knowledge of the rules of the Tripoli Rocketry Association, understand the proper operation of a safe rocket flying environment and have an understanding of the laws and regulations regarding High Power Rocketry.

With the previous statements in mind, the minimum requirements for a member to be a Prefect is one year as an active Tripoli member and attained certification level 2.

To form a new Prefecture requires a minimum of 3 active Tripoli members, one of which must meet the minimum requirements of a Prefect and will serve in that capacity. One of the other members will act as secretary and will be required to conduct an annual Prefect election.  A prefecture also must renew every year, begining in January and is required to submit an annual fee of $100 which provides insurance coverage to the prefecture.

Additionally, the Prefecture must serve a unique geographic area that is not already served by an existing Prefecture (i.e. two prefectures would not be set up in the same city).

If these requirements are met, then a request must be made to Tripoli Headquarters for processing.