Matanuska-Susitna Borough, Alaska
Matanuska-Susitna Borough, commonly known as Mat-Su, is located north of Anchorage. It is one of the fastest-growing areas in Alaska, with a population of about 120,000 people. Palmer and Wasilla are the main towns in the borough.
Many residents commute to Anchorage for work. The borough is well known for its farming, as the long summer days help produce exceptionally large vegetables. Mat-Su is also known for its beautiful scenery, including mountains, rivers, and forests.
The area was settled during the 1930s as part of a government farming project. Today, it is a mix of rural and suburban communities. Tourism plays an important role, with many visitors using Mat-Su as a base to explore Alaska. The borough is home to part of Denali State Park. Despite its continued growth, Mat-Su still has plenty of open space and abundant wildlife.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Borough Name | Matanuska-Susitna Borough |
| Borough Seat | Palmer |
| Population | Approximately 120,000 |
| Cities, Towns, and Communities | Wasilla, Palmer, Big Lake, Houston, Sutton, Talkeetna, Willow, Trapper Creek, Butte, Knik-Fairview, Meadow Lakes, Chickaloon |
| Interstates and Highways | Alaska Route 1 (Glenn Highway), Alaska Route 3 (Parks Highway), Alaska Route 4 |
| FIPS Code | 02-170 |
| Total Area (Land and Water) | 25,258 square miles (Land: 24,682 sq mi, Water: 576 sq mi) |
| Adjacent Boroughs and Census Areas (and Direction) | Denali Borough (North), Southeast Fairbanks Census Area (Northwest), Copper River Census Area (East), Chugach Census Area (East), Municipality of Anchorage (South), Kenai Peninsula Borough (South), Bethel Census Area (West), Yukon-Koyukuk Census Area (West) |
| Time Zone | Alaska Time Zone (AKT) |
| State | Alaska |
| Coordinates | 61.6002° N, 149.1170° W |
| Etymology | Named after the Matanuska and Susitna Rivers, both of which flow through the borough |
| Major Landmarks | Denali State Park, Hatcher Pass, Independence Mine State Historical Park, Matanuska Glacier, Iditarod Trail Headquarters, Knik Glacier |
