VIDEO: After months of repairs, the Chassell Volunteer Fire Department and Medical First Responders have their airboat up and running, ready to serve the community. An airboat is pretty much what it sounds like โ a boat with an aircraft propeller. The Chassell airboat was obtained through the Federal Excess Property Program (FEPP) from the Department of Natural Resources (DNR). Through FEPP, excess equipment from federal agencies are loaned out to smaller departments. Chassell’s airboat required a couple months of repairs to the canopy, minor mechanical issues and some additions. “The airboat will primarily be used for ice rescues if needed, but we could also use it in the Chassell Sloughs or on local rivers the rest of the year,” said Chief Curt Judson. “We would also respond to other areas if called upon.”
