UP dispatcher 41 is located in Omaha. He/she controls the Ayer Sub and Spokane Sub and I believe they also have the Montana Sub.

"X box" means to put an X or check in the box on the track warrant form. Such as "X box two, work between MP 6 and MP 13 on the Spokane Sub". There is a generic track warrant form on the back of the Altamont Press timetables. CSX uses blocks which are marked with signs so the dispatcher can only give a train one or more blocks. The UP track warrant system allows the dispatcher to give a train as much or as little authority as they desire. SP and CNW also used the block system but converted to UP's system after mergers.

Fish Lake isn't a siding. It is the start of UP tracks south of Spokane. UP has BNSF trackage rights from Napa Street in Spokane to Fish Lake. At Fish Lake they regain their own tracks. Fish Lake is off the Spokane-Cheney Road where the trail head for the trail using the former SP&S line is. There is a parking lot with restrooms and you can often find a UP train there waiting to enter BNSF.



Bill Maltby