Regions. There are 18 NMRA Regions across the globe. Regions usually hold annual or semi-annual conventions, including presentations and clinics, as well as tours to model layouts, prototype tours, and even banquets and swap meets. All Regions have a member newsletter.
Divisions. There are over 150 NMRA Divisions - groups of NMRA members in local communities. Most hold regular meetings featuring interesting and informative presentations on subjects ranging from "how-to" clinics to prototype railroad slide presentations. Many also have a regular newsletter for members.
The NMRA provides several core functions and resources for scale model railroaders:
- Standards and Recommended Practices. The NMRA is the organization that initially set those Standards and Recommended Practices that allow different manufacturers' products to work seamlessly together on the same layout. It continues to guide manufacturers and consumers alike.
- The Kalmbach Memorial Library just may be the largest railroad reference and research center in the world, containing over 100,000 prototype photos, 6,000 books, and more than 50,000 modeling, prototype and historical society magazines.
- Publications. Members receive NMRA Magazine, monthly print and online/digital editions that features prototype photos, layout tours, historical pieces, and construction "how-tos." There is also a monthly curated email newsletter with some of the most interesting model railroad websites, videos, blogs, and articles on the web.
- Conventions. The NMRA hosts an annual National Convention held in a different location in the US every year. The National Convention is a week-long event featuring multiple model railroad layout tours, operating sessions, prototype tours, hands-on clinics, and presentations. Regional Conventions are also held. These are generally three to four day events, with similar features in the region.
- Achievement Programs (AP). This program encourages modelers to improve their modeling skills in various categories (such as cars, structures, civil engineering, and electrical). There are two awards that can be achieved (by increasing difficulty): the Golden Spike Award, and the Master Model Railroader award.
The WWSL
I am going to use the NMRA Achievement Program to aid me in becoming a better modeler, and to be another source for making the Western Washington Short Line to be a better railroad. To that end, I am going to work on both awards.
My efforts toward the Golden Spike Award will be found here.
My efforts toward the Master Model Railroader award will be found here.
Resource
National Model Railroad Association
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