I am repeating this post from another thead to make sure my point gets across. I appologize for taking up the extra room. -----------------
Ed Lecuyer makes the point. There is alot of interest in doing something to help preservation from people who cannot get out to Chama.
However the Friends of the C&TS do not seem to know how to use the potential here.
The potential will manifest itself in some way (like this impromptu project) or the Friends can find ways to tap it and help the the C&TS instead. I have written to the Friends several times over the years seeing if there are ways I might be able to help and it keeps falling on deaf ears. If I had ideas on long distance projects that would help the C&TS or the D&SNG or even Shank's new Creede branch or the Colorado RR Museum, I'd jump at the chance.
I am STILL of the opinion that the reconnecting of Durango and Chama is NOT economically viable. However, I can sit on my butt and wait for a non-existant call from the Friends (or the CRRM or Shank or D&SNG or the Georgetown Loop) or I can try to do something (anything) that makes me feel like I am contributing to historical preservation in some small way.
There's allot of potential out here, can anyone come up with ideas?
If not, I'll continue the Durango-Chama line and I also like John Bush's idea of Lizard Head to Telluride.
I understand it is difficult to find projects that do not require hand's-on on-site access, but I think it needs to be looked into. I think the first group that could find projects to give to non-narrow gauge country residents will have alot of people knocking at their doors.
The common thread I've heard from people calling me or e-mailing me about this project is that they feel that the Friends of the C&TS does not want anyone outside the immediate C&TS area in the group. The've written offering help and it has fallen on deaf ears.
I agree that we do not NEED another railroad. But the potential for help it out there to be harnessed. Find a way to get non-narrow gauge country people who cannot travel to the promised land of Chama and Antonito to feel included - to feel ownership, to feel included in preservation efforts.
I know some can travel from overseas to help in the work sessions. But what about those of us who cannot make it. I had had plans to come out and help on 0579 this year but surgery has prevented me from coming out.
For myself, I have a metal machine shop in the basement and I have some experience making patterns. If making bolts or machining castings for upcoming work sessions needs to be done, I'd be grateful at the chance to jump into my shop and do something to help prepare for a work session.
Doug.