VINALHAVEN — The Island Institute of Rockland is looking for individuals or organizations interested in the restoration of Heron Neck Light Station. The Coast Guard has expressed interest in granting a long-term lease to an individual or organization that will take on the restoration of the structure that was damaged by fire a year ago.

“To say the least, Heron Neck would make a dramatic private residence,” said Richard Podoisky, a representative of the institute. The light is located atop a granite bluff at the southern tip of Green Island, about 12 miles southeast of Rockland, and a mile west of Carver’s Harbor, Vinalhaven.

The light station was named to the National Register of Historic Places in January 1988, primarily because of the significance of the keepers’ house which was damaged by fire last year. The light tower was built in 1854, and the keeper’s house added in 1896.

The light is automated, but for more than 100 years lighthouse keepers staffed the station to guide vessels in and out of Penobscot Bay.

Officials reported the fire in the keepers’ house was caused by faulty wiring.

The Coast Guard has estimated it would cost $250,000 to restore the structure to its original “historic” condition. The institute, however, said others have estimated it would cost less. In exchange for the investment to make the renovations, the Coast Guard would grant a 30-year renewable lease to the house and the surrounding 10 acres. The renewable lease would be for a nominal amount of money, the institute reported. Being explored was the possibility of an outright deed transfer with easements to Heron Neck.

Also available were possible tax credits for individuals that invest in the restoration of historic structures.

Anyone interested in pursuing the project should contact the Island Institute.