I don't think the dropping of the morse code will cause a decline in
radio operators.  If there is a decline it is probably because of the
increasing age of operators.  The decline was going to happen anyway if
it does in fact happen.  I know of 3 or 4 people that want to become
involved in amateur radio but had trouble picking up the code.  Just
think if we all knew just one person and we encouraged them to get in
now that the code requirement was gone.  That would in fact create an
increase in the number of amateur operators.  Amateur radio can and must
survive this change.  We must embrace it and encourate others to get
involved so that there is an increase in the numbers of operators and
the hobby can live on as well as grow.
 
Gery Gaubert
St. Charles Sheriff's Office Helpdesk Coordinator