?USGS dems w/type C records?

Hi Grass listers,
  Does anyone know how to overcome the type C records problem assoicated with
some USGS dems? I'm assuming the statement in the manual: "When this format
error in a file is encountered, forward the tape to the next file" means that
we're out of luck? Thanks for any help.
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Rick Thompson- Research Specialist E-mail: rick@cast.uark.edu
Center for Advanced Spatial Technologies Telephone: (501) 575-8498
Ozark Hall Rm. 12 Fax: (501) 575-5218
University of Arkansas
Fayetteville, AR 72701