Sam Reeves Wrote:
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> Brian Wrote:
> --------------------------------------------------
> -----
> > The ROW certainly seems in good shape.
>
> The rail is literally peeling in some places near
> Davenport. It's a good thing they are just using
> that portion of the line for storage.
>
> Sam Reeves Photography • On Deviant Art • On
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Sam,

I have not seen the rail condition you describe around Davenport, but I have seen spalling at one location north of Watsonville. I though I should report it and was told the following:

The spalling of the head of the rail on the outside is not unusual or any problem. It is caused from the rail being worn from main line service, which was re-laid on this branch line by UP. The railhead is worn and the outside edge is rolled and spalling. However, this rail is fine for the type of service it currently has. The track is basically in good condition and with the continued maintenance will continue to be so. The track has a detailed inspection each month, and has been recently inspected by both Federal and State railroad inspectors.

From what I have observed Sierra Northern is actively maintaining and upgrading the line. The day I took these photos I noticed two Sierra Northern employees walking and inspecting the line around the West end of Santa Cruz. I think the branch line is in good hands with Sierra Northern.

Howard