This "Frequently Asked Questions" page was added to help answer questions new members, or potential new members, always seem to ask.

What is GRVS?

GRVS stands for Great River Valley System and was a name chosen back in 1992. The name represents and area encompassing the region around the Mississippi River valley – from Northern Minnesota, down to the Gulf of Mexico. That way members could model any railroad scene or road name and still be covered under the GRVS umbrella.

Why is GRVS an N-Trak club?

When GRVS started, back in 1992, club members wanted to participate in many of the local model railroad shows and display a layout to the public. A modular standard was needed and N-Trak was the most dominant (and still is today). GRVS went with this proven design that is easy to use and easy to build. It also helps that the guys that started GRVS had a handful of N-Trak modules to begin with.

Does GRVS support any other modular standards?

Yes - T-Trak

Has GRVS been exclusively N-Trak?

Mostly.

A few years ago, GRVS did a joint layout with a Bend-Trak group that worked out very well. The Bend-Trak club provided the necessary interface module to join our N-Trak layout with their Bend-Trak layout. This was fun and GRVS would be open to doing it again.

Recently, GRVS has been encouraging the T-Trak standard.  This is mainly for the younger members in GRVS. T-Trak modules are easier to handle and less intimidating to younger people.

Does GRVS use DCC on its layout?

The topic of DCC has been discussed quite frequently by our membership.  Most are fairly open to it's use on our layout and find it's unique abilities to be very fun. But, non-DCC equipped locomotives still far out number DCC-equipped one by a very large percentage.  Thus, GRVS has to make sure everyone can enjoy the layout.

Sometimes DCC is used on our layouts. But, it is done only on very special occasions. The layout, venue and member participation have to be coordinated to allow DCC to be used on our layout.  And then, typically GRVS only does DCC on one line (typically the Red line - as it has the most passing sidings). The other lines (Yellow and Blue) are sill run as analog control.

What equipment does GRVS own?

GRVS does not own any equipment or hold any assets. This way the club is simple to operate and easy to manage.

Items, such as corner modules and other necessary "common" equipment for shows, are owned and maintained by individual members.