Northwest Arctic Borough, Alaska
Northwest Arctic Borough covers a large part of northwest Alaska. Kotzebue is the largest town, along with several other small villages throughout the region.
The area is home to many Iñupiat people who have lived there for thousands of years. Hunting, fishing, and gathering continue to play important roles in daily life. The region is also rich in wildlife, including caribou, bears, and whales.
Mining is an important part of the local economy, particularly the Red Dog zinc mine. Climate change is affecting the region through melting permafrost and changes in animal patterns. Despite modern challenges, traditional culture remains strong throughout the Northwest Arctic Borough.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Borough Name | Northwest Arctic Borough |
| Borough Seat | Kotzebue |
| Population | Approximately 7,800 |
| Cities, Towns, and Communities | Kotzebue, Ambler, Buckland, Deering, Kiana, Kivalina, Kobuk, Noatak, Noorvik, Selawik, Shungnak |
| Interstates and Highways | None (No interstates; some local roads connect communities) |
| FIPS Code | 02-188 |
| Total Area (Land and Water) | 40,749 square miles (Land: 35,898 sq mi, Water: 4,851 sq mi) |
| Adjacent Boroughs and Census Areas (and Direction) | North Slope Borough (North), Yukon-Koyukuk Census Area (East), Nome Census Area (South) |
| Time Zone | Alaska Time Zone (AKT) |
| State | Alaska |
| Coordinates | 67.2421° N, 162.3157° W |
| Etymology | Named for its location in the northwestern part of Alaska, in the Arctic region |
| Major Landmarks | Kobuk Valley National Park, Noatak National Preserve, Cape Krusenstern National Monument, Red Dog Mine, Selawik National Wildlife Refuge |
