Northwest Arctic Borough

The Northwest Arctic Borough is located in northwest Alaska, along the Chukchi Sea. It is the second-largest borough in Alaska, encompassing approximately 36,000 square miles, an area larger than the state of Indiana. The borough's population was 7,793 as of the 2020 Census. The borough seat is Kotzebue, which has been a hub of trade for the Inupiat people for thousands of years. The economy of the Northwest Arctic Borough is driven by government, mining, healthcare, transportation, services, and construction. Key industries include the Red Dog Mine, the world's largest zinc mine, and subsistence activities such as hunting, fishing, and gathering. Major employers include TeckAlaska, Maniilaq Association, the Northwest Arctic Borough School District, and Kikiktagruk Inupiat Corp. The Northwest Arctic Borough is distinctive for its rich Inupiat culture, which has thrived in the region for over 10,000 years. Subsistence activities are a vital part of the lifestyle, and the borough is home to several national parks and wildlife refuges, offering unparalleled access to pristine wilderness. The borough's location above the Arctic Circle results in unique climate conditions, including long, cold winters and continuous sunlight during the summer months.