The Galloping Goose Historical Society is seeking volunteers to staff the Dolores museum and depot, help with a newsletter, work on the unique rail-bus, and even train to operate it during excursions on the Cumbres-Toltec and Durango-Silverton railroads.

"We're not always going to be here so we need the next generation to come in and learn how we operate and continue the tradition of the Galloping Goose," said society president Larry Spencer.

Mechanically minded individuals are needed, and a general interest in railroads and history is preferred.

"There is a lot of mechanical upkeep and routine maintenance on the Goose, and we want to get volunteers up to speed on what needs to be done and how to do it," Spencer said.

"After two to three years, the right person can get trained and certified to operate the Goose on the railroads in Durango and New Mexico. It's a nice perk, and a very unique experience."

There are three empty slots for four-hour shifts running the museum.

"Volunteers run the gift shop and talk with visitors. They explain the railroad history of Dolores and the Goose's role in transportation in the region," said society member and Goose operator Lew Matis. "We're a real hands-on group. If someone wants to volunteer and doesn't have an interest in railroad, I'm sure we can infect them!"

Researchers are also needed to write grants and articles and promote re-installing a railroad route in the Dolores area as an economic draw for tourism.

"Someone who is semi-retired, or anyone with extra time and interest, is encouraged to volunteer. Basically we need some new talent. Someone from Dolores would be nice as well," Spencer said.

There is still space to ride the Galloping Goose No. 5 on the Durango-Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad during the True West Railfest from Aug, 14-19.

Call 247-2733 for reservations and more information.

"The Goose is a nice draw; it is a real icon for Dolores. We get a lot of interest because it is so different and the fact that it is operational is really special. It has an interesting history people love to learn about," Spencer said.

The Galloping Goose Society meets the third Thursday of each month at 6 p.m. upstairs at the train station/museum in the middle of town.

Stop into the museum or call 882-7082.

An informative website is also worth visiting at www.gallopinggoose5.com.