The Forest Service is seeking to find an alternative use of the historic M/V Chugach, the last wooden ranger boat in the fleet operating in Southeast Alaska. Field-going personnel need economically feasible modes of transportation for their day-to-day work activities, and must consider the costs of maintaining and operating the M/V Chugach. For this reason, the Forest Service is seeking proposals from the public to lease, adaptively reuse and preserve the vessel. Particular consideration will be given to suggestions that best preserve the boat’s historic integrity.
The M/V Chugach was designed by Seattle-based boat designer L. H. Coolidge. It launched in Seattle in 1925 and has been in service ever since transporting scientists, government officials, supplies, and guests throughout the areas administered by the Forest Service in Alaska. It is about 62 feet long, 14.5 feet wide and is estimated to displace 40 tons. The boat was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1992.
Proposals will be accepted for a 30-day period June 27– July 27, 2016. Email proposals to rangerboat@fs.fed.us. Include your name, the name of your organization, your alternative use idea or feasibility plan or lease proposal. Specifications and more information are available at fs.usda.gov/goto/MVChugach.
The boat is currently being repaired in Wrangell, Alaska, with completion scheduled for mid-summer.
