thanks for your response hepkema! hmmm...so google suggests this is zinc-lead ore, which explains the "eco-fab" white lids on the gondolas. i have noticed that the loads tend to go on the m-evespo via stevens pass, while the empties come back on the m-pasvbt via stampede pass. why wouldnt they just go back on the m-spoeve? i also thought that i heard a while ago that the empty gons continued up to canada via blaine. but you are suggesting the gondolas stay in everett? is there a ro-ro (roll on roll off) operation in everett? or does the ore come down on a ship and then get transloaded in everett?

this is really just academic curiosity...ive seen those gons come through seattle for so long and always wondered what was up with them...