A distributed Raman amplifier system is disclosed. Distributed Raman amplifier systems can include a spool of fiber disposed between a distributed Raman amplifier and local or proximate optical point-loss sources, a carrier hotel for example. The spool of fiber has a fiber of sufficient length to offset aggregated losses, which prevents the distributed Raman amplifier from shutting down while also allowing the distributed Raman amplifier to achieve entitled gain by pumping the fiber in the spool.