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This letter is written to commend the rapid response, operational efficiency, and outstanding professionalism on the part of all parties that supported a recovery operation close to the south end of the Long Bridge.

In the early Sunday morning hours of Sept. 30, 2018, I walked down to my beach to observe the results of the previous night and early morning windstorm. On the beach was a barge that had broken loose from its railroad bridge moorings.

Not knowing who might be interested in recovering the barge I tried to contact the Bonner County Sheriff’s Office. No response there so I called 911 and reported a non-emergency.

The response was incredible. First on the scene was Selkirk Fire & Rescue to assess potential environmental damage (none). Then two operators from E 80 Constructors arrived in a work boat and went about securing equipment on the barge deck that potentially could break loose.

The BNSF folks arrived along with the National Response Corps and Whitewater Rescue Institute. Finally, Charlie Kramer’s tug arrived from Hope to pull the barge from the beach and return it to safe mooring on the railroad bridge.

So, to all those who jumped up on Sunday morning to respond to the situation (911, WRI, E 80 Constructors, NRC, and CE Kramer) a hearty thanks for your Sunday morning support and dedication. We are fortunate to have such outstanding resources available here in the Sandpoint area.

ANDREW KEE

Sagle