Wenatchee Valley Erratics: Geology and the Growth of BNSF’s Cascade Tunnel

Join the Wenatchee Valley Erratics Chapter on Tuesday, February 10, at 6 PM at the Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center for a presentation from Bill Bugel about geology and the growth of BNSF’s Cascade Tunnel.

The Synergy of the Development of the Science of Geology with the Growth of the Railroad Industry plus a Short Description of BNSF’s Cascade Tunnel’s Ventilation System

The advent of the Industrial Revolution brought about the development of the science of geology which was followed closely by the growth of the railroad industry.  A quick look at both of these disciplines over the past 200 years reveals a fascinating back and forth which resulted in amazing advances for both.  For instance, geologists found the coal and then the railroads transported this coal to locations where people worked and lived. And coal mines virtually dictated where the rail line should be built.   Comparisons between the two efforts continue to the present day with Bill outlining current challenges.  

Back in 1995, Bill was heavily involved in the installation of a new ventilation system for BNSF’s Cascade Tunnel. He’ll spend the last 10 minutes of this lecture describing how BNSF ensures safe operations through the longest railroad tunnel in the United States.  

JOIN THIS PRESENTATION VIA ZOOM: