Across North America, short line railways are deeply connected to the communities they serve. They respond to local challenges and help regional industries thrive. When short lines grow, Class 1s grow too. That's why partnerships like the one between CN and the Société du chemin de fer de la Gaspésie (SCFG), named CN's 2025 Short Line of the Year at our annual Short Line Conference, are so impactful.
Turning Problems into Pathways
In Quebec, lumber producers rely on rail to move wood chips to pulp and paper mills across the province. With CN’s fleet of 290 woodchip gondola cars nearing end-of-life, the industry needed a forward-looking solution. Few used cars were available on the market, and the high cost of a new build put the forestry supply chain at risk.
Rather than retiring the fleet, CN collaborated with SCFG, which purchased the aging railcars. They have an ally on their lines: Rail GD, an AAR certified railcar refurbishment expert based in New Richmond, QC. Rail GD handles repair work for passenger cars like VIA Rail and the luxury Rocky Mountaineer. This strategic move will enable SCFG to refurbish and repair the cars, effectively extending their operational lifespan. These cars are now leased to forestry customers, securing reliable service for years to come.
Together, SCFG, CN and key customers found a sustainable solution to ensure the continued affordability and mobility of rail service in Québec, safeguarding 500,000 metric tonnes of annual woodchip shipments across origins like Parent, Amos, Matagami, and Nouvelle, to destinations including La Tuque, Masson, and Rivière-du-Loup. SCFG is now one of Canada’s largest woodchip railcar lessors, strengthening regional networks and maintaining vital freight solutions for forestry customers across the region.
Reconnecting Causapscal
In another example of local action, SCFG partnered with Cedrico, a wood products company, to restore rail service to Causapscal, QC. The plant had been disconnected from the network for over a decade. SCFG quickly assessed the site to identify a cost-effective solution. Their team provided engineering guidance and developed a new track design to reintroduce rail service, with construction set for fall 2025. Also, to support this renewed service, Cedrico will use a subset of the refurbished woodchip cars to fulfill their equipment needs.
The project highlights how short lines like SCFG deliver tailored solutions to local customers. By listening, designing, and delivering, SCFG reactivated a critical logistics link to bring new volumes to CN’s mainline. It's a clear example of how local railways connect regional needs to national infrastructure.
Growing Forward, Together
Customer growth comes first. CN’s collaboration with short line railways like SCFG puts customers at the center. By combining regional knowledge with CN’s continental reach, these partnerships deliver end-to-end logistics solutions that help businesses and industries succeed. From improved reliability and new market access to more sustainable supply chains, shippers benefit from responsive, long-term service.
Partner with CN for Short Line Success
Learn more about how CN works with over 120 short line partners across North America to deliver smart, sustainable supply chain solutions. Visit our Short Line Services page to explore opportunities to grow with us.
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