Extracts From the NP Field Engineer's Notes-Bassett Jct to Schrag

Courtesy of Aaron Schwarz

Washington 14

This section extends from Bassett Jct. to Schrag, a length of 12.2 miles. A large part of the land is uncultivated sagebrush desert, the only farming being wheat-raising. Maximum grade .55%; maximum curvature 5 degrees. Generally speaking the country is flat; the soil light, of a volcanic nature. No classified material except hardpan. Wind erosion necessitated gravel blanket protection. Grading has been completed eastward from Schrag to a connection with the main line at Ritzville. The line was built in 1909 and 1910 at the following prices;

Earth, 300 foot haul $.165 per cubic yard
Earth, 300 to 1000 foot haul $.205 per cubic yard
Loose Rock $.32 per cubic yard
Shell Rock $.25 per cubic yard
Solid Rock Excavation $.85 per cubic yard
Solid Rock Borrow $.50 per cubic yard
Loose Riprap $1.25 per cubic yard
Hand Place Riprap $1.50 per cubic yard
Overhaul, after 1000 feet $.01 per cubic yard
Clearing $15 per acre
Grubbing $1.50 per square rod
Tracklaying $275 per mile
Surfacing $200 per mile

The climate in this territory is very windy; the soil light. There have been instances through this part of Central Washington where the light grades have been entirely obliterated during construction by heavy winds. Eight months would be a reasonable reproduction period.

Account 3--Grading

Material available for bank protection from the wind would have to be train hauled from M.P. 46 on Valuation Section 12, or from Mesa Pit. ICC quantities for fills fun under carrier's quantities on account of material having been blown away. Clearing amounts to light sagebrush.

Account 6--Culverts

End of pipe culverts throughout this section of the country are not protected with end walls of any description. Occasionally a small amount of riprap is place about them.

Account 8--Ties

All treated ties are creosoted. Bridge ties are untreated fir.

General

The C.M.& St. P. Ry. crosses overhead on Mile 2. The entire cost of the crossing and maintenance is borne by the C.M.& St. P. Carrier's inventory folio includes that part of the grading beyond the end of tracklaying which was not included in the ICC field inventory.