Question_and_Answer_Document_(1)_(3).docx

P15PS01545

Gill Netting Boat with Trailer for Glacier National Park Question and Answer Document QUESTION: Our boat manufacturer wants to supply a more modern material that might be better suitable for this particular boat application. IT is a Kevlar fiberglass sandwich construction that has been proven very good as a boat construction material. It is very tough, does not dent and seemingly outlasts metal and aluminum type boats. Can we supply this type of boat construction instead of aluminum?

ANSWER: No. The specifications call for aluminum construction which is proven for our application. We beach the boat on rocks on a daily basis, so damage from wave action is a concern. Aluminum is light, durable, can be easily modified/customized, and can be repaired locally.

QUESTION: Is the side stability a concern?

ANSWER: The sides of the boat must be strong enough so that the boat can be air lifted into a backcountry lake using the attachment points specified in the solicitation.

QUESTION: Is a shallow draft boat sides a plus or minus feature?

ANSWER: It would generally be considered a plus.

QUESTION: Swamped water feature for stability not submerged when waves brake over into boat?

ANSWER: Swamping is not a primary concern due to the relatively small size of the lake. The specifications call for a full self-bailing deck and bilge pumps to address any swamping concerns.

QUESTION: A vee type hull is listed, can a bottom be supplied in place of this that has proven to give more stability especially on boat sides?

ANSWER: No. The specifications call for a semi-V hull to improve the boat ride and maneuverability on the lake.

QUESTION: What is the side draft required on boat?

ANSWER: This is not specified.

QUESTION: Just like modern weapons are different from those used years ago, modern boat materials are significantly different than those used years ago, would the end user be open to a boat made of Kevlar and fiberglass as opposed to aluminum?

ANSWER: See earlier answer.

QUESTIONL Is shallow draft operation a concern?

ANSWER: No, we are generally operating in water >5m deep.

QUESTION: Is side to side stability a concern?

ANSWER: See previous answer on side stability.

QUESTION: Is a dry ride a concern?

ANSWER: No, we have adequate rain gear.

QUESTION: Is Swamp Stability a concern?

Swamp Stability is the ability of a small boat to not tip over when submerged from waves breaking into the boat? Exposure to the elements after a boat tips over or sinks is the number one cause of death in boating world wide.

ANSWER: See previous answer on swamp stability.

QUESTION: What is the maximum weight of the requested boat?

ANSWER: See specifications.