Spradlin_dh.doc

February 23, 2000

Kevin C. Spradlin
Vice President & General Manager
Camas Prairie RailNet
PO Box 1166
Lewiston, ID 83501

Re: Arranging for a State Track and Bridge Inspection

Dear Kevin,

As I mentioned in our telephone conversation two weeks ago, the Idaho Public Utilities Commission is required by state law to conduct a public hearing regarding the abandonment of a rail line in Idaho. In preparation for that state hearing, I would like our track and bridge inspectors, Joe Pietrantone and Dick McDonald of L.E. Peabody & Associates to be able to inspect your Spalding-Grangeville line (commonly referred to as the second subdivision). I have asked Joe and Dick to contact you to make arrangements to inspect the rail line during the week of March 13-17, 2000. If possible, I might also accompany them on their inspection.

If this presents any problems, please contact me or Tom Crowley so that we can discuss making arrangements to inspect the line. If you have questions, you can reach me at [phone] or Tom Crowley or Joe Pietrantone at [phone].

Sincerely yours,

Donald L. Howell, II
Deputy Attorney General

cc: Ron Law, PUC
Tom Crowley, Peabody
Joe Pietrantone, Peabody
Dick McDonald, Peabody
John Heffner, CPRN