From Railway Age-and admittedly outside the normal stream-but interesting nonetheless:

BNSF to rail fans: "I want you!"

BNSF Railway is asking rail fans nationwide to support its security efforts by registering for a new program, Citizens United for Rail Security (CRS), and reporting any suspicious activities.

Because rail fans photograph and watch trains, “it seems natural to harness their interest to help keep America's rail system safe,” BNSF's General Director-Police and Protection Solutions William Heileman said during today's announcement.

Participating rail fans will receive an official identification card and be able to access news and information on the CRS website (http://newdomino.bnsf.com/website/crs.nsf/request?open).

CRS is an outgrowth of BNSF ON GUARD, a grassroots program that encourages BNSF employees to report suspicious activities or trespassers. Since its inception in 2003, more than 200 employees have reported theft, vandalism, arson, attempted suicide, and other criminal violations, threats to safety, or unusual events on or near railway properties.