North American Railcar Operators Association
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| Abbreviation | NARCOA |
|---|---|
| Formation | 1988 |
| Type | Incorporated Non-Profit |
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Membership
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1,800+ |
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President
|
Bob Knight |
| Website | www.narcoa.org |
The North American Railcar Operators Association (NARCOA) is a non-profit organization dedicated to the preservation, restoration, and safe, legal operation of railroad equipment historically used for maintenance of way purposes. The organization is primarily composed of those who own and operate a personal rail speeder. NARCOA has over 1,800 members worldwide.
NARCOA started in 1980 as a list of motorcar owners, known as "The NARCOA Roster." In 1986, NARCOA organized the first private-owner motorcar meet ever held. In 1987, NARCOA began publication of their official newsletter, The Setoff. In 1988 the group incorporated as a non-profit organization in the State of Delaware and started an insurance program for member railcar operators.[1]
NARCOA provides several important services for members which are essential to safe and successful rail car operation. These services include:
NARCOA affiliated regional clubs conduct rail excursions. The purpose of motorcar excursions is to provide an opportunity for owners to operate their cars. Motorcar operators, at their option, sometimes let friends or others ride along on a no fee basis.
A NARCOA certified excursion coordinator plans the event, coordinates with the host railroad, and has broad authority and responsibility for all aspects of the excursion. All NARCOA sponsored excursions are listed on the association website Excursion Calendar. The listing includes basic information such as the date, railroad name, location, miles to be traveled, fee, and contact information for additional details. Fees for the excursion cover only the costs of putting on an excursion. Some railroads charge a fixed fee for each car and some require reimbursement for railroad employees to act as pilots. Runs can be as short as 10 miles in a day to over 800 miles in multiple day event. Trailers are the most popular way to move a motorcar to an excursion.
A NARCOA motorcar excursion brings together people from all walks of life, including families and couples. Alcoholic beverages and illegal drugs are strictly prohibited. Maintaining a good safety record is necessary to allow NARCOA to continue operating on railroads.[3]
On June 25 and 26, 2013, members of NARCOA operated their privately owned railroad motorcars over the Leadville, Colorado and Southern Railroad in Colorado.
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Wikipedia