It is my understanding this is being done because of a rail project in the Columbia Gorge. 2 trains is normal, maybe a third. Usually the helpers will shove one to Lester and by the time they get back to Easton, the second train is approaching. Actually is working out quite well. RFE has been riding most trains to get them used to the operation. The instruction is on the climb out of Easton to Martin, for every notch the head end does, the helper will do the same.. so if they go to notch 3, helper will do the same. The two crews are in constant communication with each other. It was to be cheaper from the standpoint of locomotive use. Your not tying up 2-3 locomotives on each train for a day or more. You shove 3 trains, you only need that helper set instead of 9 units. They seem to fleet the empties across as to not to infere with the westbounds.