Info for New Members

Membership

The Coastal Valley Lines Model Railroad Club of Sonoma County, LTD (CVL) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization of model railroaders from around the Sonoma County area. We operate our HO scale modular railroad at a variety of public and private events. In addition we hold model railroading clinics and work sessions.

The members all agree to use a set of standards (technical guidelines) for the construction of their modules. They also follow standards to prepare their rolling stock (cars and locomotives) before operating them. This ensures reliable operation which helps up to have fun running trains!

cVL basic agreements

To participate in the association, you must agree to:

  • Have fun running trains!
  • Follow the standards. Variances must be obtained from the membership at club meetings.
  • Assist in either setup or breakdown (both if possible!) of any show or run that you participate in.
  • Take your turn doing some of the assigned tasks during preparation for and operation at fun and show runs.
  • Operate all modules and equipment with care, as though they were your own.
  • Have at least one engine and ten cars which meet standards and which you bring to be run at club events within a year of joining.
  • Allow your modules and equipment (if present at a run) to be run by all CVL members.
  • Be willing to resolve differences by discussion and compromise – our prime purpose is to have fun.

If you are under 16 years of age, you must have a sponsor over 21 who is a member to be with you whenever trains are being run. (A person under 16 can be upgraded to regular member status after recommendation by the sponsor and a two-thirds vote of the membership at a meeting.)

Costs

Annual dues are $20. In addition, members must have a current membership with the National Model Railroad Association.

A locomotive and ten cars (of good quality) can be obtained for under $120. This includes the cost of adding approved couplers and otherwise bringing the equipment up to standards.

Optional Expenses

A 2 foot long module can be built for as little as $30. A module or module group may be as expensive and extensive as you want, but build only as much as you yourself can transport.

You may be able to save money by showing your ideas to other CVL members, as they may have suggestions based on experience save money and assist in the construction. It is strongly recommended that you do this.

Some members choose to own their own personal throttle to control trains on the CVL layout. We currently use the NCE DCC system and compatible throttles.

Liability Insurance

Liability insurance for the organization is provided courtesy of the National Model Railroad Association. For more information, please see NMRA Liability Insurance.

Shows ‘On the Road’

Costs of lodging, food, and transportation to shows would, in most circumstances, be handled by each individual going to that show.