A method for operating a plurality of stations in a cooperative station network, wherein each of the stations transmits signals and receives signals from other stations, includes determining a path loss between at least two of the stations. A carrier sense range for signals of a first station of the stations is determined based on the path loss and received power of signals from the other stations. A load on a dedicated signal exchange channel is determined based on the determined carrier sense range. A maximum output power for the first station is determined based on the determined load. The first station is operated by adjusting the output power of the first station to be, at least on average below the determined maximum output power for the first station.