Join the Rail Operators Moving Western Canada
Have Track?
Hundreds of industrial short line railways operate across Western Canada — quietly powering industry, moving goods, and connecting to our national network.
If your operation has track, you’re part of the rail network — even if you’re not a common carrier.
From mines and mills to terminals and transload sites, Western Canada is home to hundreds of privately operated industrial railways. These spurs and sidings are part of the first and last mile of the freight economy and the WCSLRA is here to support your safe operations and future growth.
Mining and energy sites
Forestry mills and wood product facilities
Agricultural terminals and grain handling sites
Intermodal yards and logistics parks
Heavy manufacturing and processing facilities
Port terminals and transload hubs
Sidings, storage yards and laydown sites
Rail-served industrial parks
Why Join WCSLRA?
The Western Canadian Short Line Railway Association (WCSLRA) is expanding to include industrial rail operators. Membership in the WCSLRA brings your company new opportunities for education and training, contacts from other parts of the rail industry, and improved access to rail suppliers. Make it easier for your company to navigate the world of rail.
Benefits for Industrial Rail
Operators to Join the WCSLRA
Knowledge & Industry Intelligence
- Access to updates on regulatory changes, safety standards, and new technologies.
- Insights into industry practices.
- Exposure to innovations from peers across rail and related industries.
Networking & Strategic Relationships
- Multiple events per year with educational and networking activities.
- Discover partnerships for new business development opportunities or shared infrastructure projects.
- Find trusted vendors for construction, maintenance, and operations support.
Advocacy & Policy Influence
- Opportunity to voice challenges specific to industrial railways.
- Access to federal and provincial level discussions on transportation infrastructure.
- Access to information about incentives and funding for upgrades, safety, and innovation.
- Participation in working groups and technical committees to help shape industry standards.
Business Growth & Visibility
- Showcase your operation to a national network of rail professionals, suppliers, and industry partners.
- Highlight innovations or infrastructure upgrades that demonstrate your value in the supply chain.
- Promote redevelopment projects to potential collaborators, investors, and government agencies.
- Increase visibility as part of Western Canada’s strategic rail network.
- Strengthen credibility by aligning with a recognized and trusted industry association.
Membership Info
- Participation in the WCSLRA’s 3 annual trade showsÂ
- Networking opportunities
- Access to up‑to‑date industry information
- Provincial advocacy
- Access to rail suppliers
- Membership is $2,000 Introductory
Ready to Put Your
Railway on the Map?
Join the growing network of rail operators shaping the future of Western Canada’s freight economy. Whether you’re running a private spur at a mine, a transload terminal, or a rail-connected mill, your track is part of a larger system — and your voice deserves to be heard. The WCSLRA is here to support, connect, and advocate for operators like you. Let’s work together to raise standards, unlock opportunities, and strengthen our industry.
Reach out today to learn more or apply for membership. Your track belongs here.
WHO WE ARE
We are an industry association representing 20+ short line railways across British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba and our rail supplier partners.
Our work supports freight and passenger rail transportation, economic opportunities for rural communities, and rail innovation in Western Canada.
WHO WE ARE
We are an industry association representing 20+ short line railways across British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba and our rail supplier partners.
Our work supports freight and passenger rail transportation, economic opportunities for rural communities, and rail innovation in Western Canada.
