Hello,
Right now, it''s summer on Kachemak Bay. Just a bit of snow is on the peaks of the Kenai Range and we are seeing lupines and orses along with the beloved forget-me-nots in the boreal forest. The sandhill cranes colts are venturing out of the nests and birdsongs fill the air. We hope you too are finding healthy, responsible ways to enjoy nature.
This summer, the Center for Alaskan Coastal Studies team wants to reach out and let you know how we are responding to the impact that the COVID-19 pandemic will have on our season.
We are hosting natural history tours, yurt stays, and camps at our Peterson Bay Field Station. We are closely monitoring updates from local and national health authorities regarding the novel coronavirus (COVID-19). CACS is fully committed to providing a safe and healthy environment for all visitors, as well as our staff and the communities we work within.
We will continue to update you when needed as the situation unfolds. First and foremost in our planning is the health and safety of our employees, volunteers, and the young people, families, and adults that we work with. We also must contend with the financial challenges that cancellation of programs will cause for our organization.
As you plan for your summer in these uncertain times, you may be wondering about our cancellation policy. Cancellations 1 week or more before the departure time
and date will be refunded the cost of the tour less a $50 processing fee. Cancellations within 1 week but more than 72 hours of departure time and date will be refunded 50% of the cost of the tour. Cancellations with less than 72 hours notice will not be refunded. This is due to booking arrangements necessary for boat transportation across Kachemak Bay.
If you do need to cancel your reservation, we encourage you to consider other ways you can help to support the Center for Alaskan Coastal Studies. If you are financially able, you can donate some or all of the program fees rather than have them refunded. Since we are a 501(c)3 nonprofit, any donation is tax deductible and we will provide a donation receipt! You can also choose to have your refund be transferred to a gift card, which you can use for a tour in a future year or for the purchase of promotional items from our online store: https://www.akcoastalstudies.org/online-store-support-our-organization.html
A quick note of encouragement via e-mail or positive review on TripAdvisor or Facebook is also appreciated!
We hope this finds you, your families, and your communities well, and please do not hesitate to contact me with questions or concerns.
Sincerely,
Katie Gavenus
Program Director
Center for Alaskan Coastal Studies
Center for Alaskan Coastal Studies
