F ormed in June 1986, the Northwest Arctic Borough is a home rule borough and is the local political subdivision of the State of Alaska. The borough has an eleven-member assembly, a seven member planning commission and a thirteen member staff.

The northwest Arctic Borough is located in Northwest Alaska thirty-three miles north of the Arctic Circle. The Borough encompasses approximately 36,000 square miles and is the second largest borough in Alaska. The Borough has a population of approximately 7,300 and consists of 11 villages with Kotzebue serving as the regional hub. The Red Dog Mine, North America's largest iron ore mine, is also within the boundaries of the Northwest Arctic Borough. The Borough is accessible by air, land, and sea. There are no roads connecting the villages.

NANA Borough Profile
Maniilaq Borough Profile

Current Population: 7,266 (2002 DCED Certified Population)
Incorporation Type: Home Rule Borough
Taxes: Sales: None, Property: None, Special: None

Location and Climate
The Northwest Arctic Borough is the second-largest borough in Alaska, comprising approximately 39,000 square miles and eleven villages along the Kotzebue Sound, Wullik, Noatak, Kobuk, Selawik, Buckland and Kugruk Rivers. It lies at approximately 66.9° North Latitude and -162.58333° West Longitude . The area encompasses 35,898.3 sq. miles of land and 4,863.7 sq. miles of water. The area experiences a transitional climate, characterized by long, cold winters and cool summers. Temperatures range from -52 to 85. Snowfall averages 47 inches, with total precipitation of 9 inches per year. Coastal Profile.

History, Culture and Demographics
This area has been occupied by Inupiat Eskimos for at least 10,000 years. "Kikiktagruk" was the hub of ancient arctic trading routes. Kotzebue Sound was "discovered" in 1818 by the German Lt. Otto Von Kotzebue on behalf of Russia. In 1899 a post office was established in Kotzebue. Most cities in the borough developed as supply stations for Interior gold mining, and were settled around schools and churches. The Borough was incorporated as a First Class Borough in 1986 and became a Home Rule Borough in 1987.

85.8% of the population are Alaska Native or part Native. The Borough population is primarily Inupiat Eskimo, and subsistence activities are a vital part of the lifestyle. Residents rely on caribou, reindeer, beluga whale, birds, four species of seals, berries, greens, and fish.

During the 2000 U.S. Census, there were 2,540 total housing units, and 760 were vacant. 565 of these vacant housing units are used only seasonally. 2,430 residents were employed. The unemployment rate at that time was 15.55%, although 46.42% of all adults were not in the work force. The median household income was $45,976, per capita income was $15,286, and 17.37% of residents were living below the poverty level.

Facilities, Utilities, Schools and Health Care
This information is available on a community basis. Communities located within the Borough include: Ambler, Buckland, Deering, Kiana, Kivalina, Kobuk, Kotzebue, Noatak, Noorvik, Selawik, and Shungnak.

There are 13 schools located in the borough, attended by 2,153 students.

Economy and Transportation
Activities related to government, mining, health care, transportation, services and construction contribute to the economy. The Red Dog Mine, 90 miles north of Kotzebue, is the world's largest zinc and lead mine, and provides 370 direct year-round jobs and over a quarter of the borough's wage and salary payroll. The ore is owned by NANA Regional Corporation and leased to Cominco, which owns and operates the mine and shipping facilities. Cominco Alaska, Maniilaq Association, the Northwest Arctic Borough School District, Veco Construction, and Kikiktagruk Inupiat Corp. (KIC) are the borough's largest employers. The smaller communities rely on subsistence food-gathering and Native craft-making. 162 borough residents hold commercial fishing permits.

The City of Kotzebue is the "hub" of northwest Alaska and is the transfer point between ocean and inland shipping. It does not have a natural harbor, and is ice-free for only 3 months each year. Deep draft vessels must anchor 15 miles out, and cargo is lightered to the docking facility. Local barge services provide cargo to area communities. Ralph Wien Memorial Airport supports daily jet service and air taxis to Anchorage via Nome.

Organizations with Local Offices
Borough - Northwest Arctic Borough, P.O. Box 1110, Kotzebue, AK 99752, Phone 907-442-2500, Fax 907-442-2930, E-mail: mayor@nwabor.org, Web: http://www.northwestarcticborough.org/
School District - Northwest Arctic Schools, P.O. Box 51, Kotzebue, AK 99752, Phone 907-442-3472, Fax 907-442-2392, E-mail: mdunleavy@nsbsd.org, Web: http://www.nwabsd.schoolzone.net
Regional Native Corporation - NANA Regional Corporation, P.O. Box 49 Kotzebue, AK 99508, Phone 907-442-3301, Fax 907-442-2866, E-mail: marie.greene@nana.com, Web: http://www.nana.com/
Native Housing Authority - Northwest Inupiat Housing Auth, P.O. Box 331, Kotzebue, AK 99752, Phone 907-442-3450, Fax 907-442-3486, E-mail: gadams@maniilaq.org
Regional Native Health Corporation - Maniilaq Assoc., P.O. Box 256, Kotzebue, AK 99752, Phone 907-442-3311, Fax 907-442-7678, E-mail: jdallemolle@maniilaq.org, Web: http://www.maniilaq.org/

Current Population: 295 (2002 est. by State Demographer, DOL/WD)
Incorporation Type: 2nd Class City
Taxes: Sales: 3%, Property: None, Special: None

Location and Climate
Ambler is located on the north bank of the Kobuk River, near the confluence of the Ambler and the Kobuk Rivers. It lies 45 miles north of the Arctic Circle. It is 138 miles northeast of Kotzebue, 30 miles northwest of Kobuk and 30 miles downriver from Shungnak. It lies at approximately 67.08611° North Latitude and -157.85139° West Longitude. (Sec. 31, T020N, R005E, Kateel River Meridian.) Ambler is located in the Kotzebue Recording District. The area encompasses 9.5 sq. miles of land and 1.3 sq. miles of water. Ambler is located in the continental climate zone. Temperatures average -10 to 15 during winter; 40 to 65 during summer. Temperature extremes have been recorded from -65 to 92. Snowfall averages 80 inches and precipitation is 16 inches total per year. The Kobuk River is navigable from early July to mid-October.

History, Culture and Demographics
Ambler is named after Dr. James M. Ambler, U.S. Navy, surgeon on the U.S.S. Jeannette, who perished in 1881 in the Lena River delta while with the Arctic expedition under the command of Lt. Comdr. G.W. DeLong (1879-1880.) Ambler was permanently settled in 1958 when people from Shungnak and Kobuk moved upstream because of the variety of fish, wild game and spruce trees in the area. An archaeological site is located nearby at Onion Portage. A post office was established in 1963. The City was incorporated in 1971.

A federally recognized tribe is located in the community -- the Ambler Traditional Council. 86.7% of the population are Alaska Native or part Native. The residents of Ambler are Kowagniut Inupiat Eskimos, with a traditional subsistence lifestyle. The sale or importation of alcohol is banned in the village.

During the 2000 U.S. Census, there were 98 total housing units, and 19 were vacant. 2 of these vacant housing units are used only seasonally. 75 residents were employed. The unemployment rate at that time was 27.88%, although 46.81% of all adults were not in the work force. The median household income was $43,500, per capita income was $13,712, and 14.29% of residents were living below the poverty level.

Facilities, Utilities, Schools and Health Care
The main source of water for the community is a 167' well near the Kobuk River. Water is pumped 940 feet to the treatment facility and stored in a 210,000-gallon insulated tank, then piped to most homes. An 80' standby well is also located at the water treatment plant. Sewage is collected via 6- and 8-inch arctic pipes and flows to a facultative lagoon through two lift stations, where it discharges to a natural watershed, then to the Kobuk River. Currently, 53 homes are served by the piped water and sewer system. Funds have been requested to connect the remaining 13 homes and offices to the piped system. A new water treatment plant and sewage lagoon have been funded. The landfill is not permitted.

Electricity is provided by AVEC.

There is one school located in the community, attended by 89 students.

Local hospitals or health clinics include Ambler Health Clinic.

Economy and Transportation
In June of 2003, there were 58 fulltime jobs including 24 with the school district, nine with Maniilaq, nine with the IRA, six with the City, eight for the local stores, one postal worker and one village public safety officer. Another eight residents commute to the Red Dog Mine. Ambler Air provides charter & scheduled flights. Five residents hold commercial fishing permits. Subsistence is a major part of the local economy. Chum salmon and caribou are the most important food sources. Freshwater fish, moose, bear, and berries are also harvested. Birch baskets, fur pelts, and jade, quartz, bone and ivory carvings are sold in gift shops throughout the state. The community is interested in developing a lapidary facility for local artisans. Ambler's major means of transportation are by barge, plane, small boat and snowmachine. There are no roads linking the City to other parts of the state. A State-owned 3,000' lighted gravel airstrip, with a 2,400' gravel crosswind airstrip, is located one and a half miles from the City. Daily scheduled services are provided out of Kotzebue, and air taxis provide charter flights. The airstrip has recently undergone major improvements. Crowley Marine Services barges fuel and supplies to Ambler each summer. Boats are used for inter-village travel and subsistence activities. ATVs and snowmachines are commonly used in winter.

Organizations with Local Offices
City - City of Ambler, P.O. Box 9, Ambler, AK 99786, Phone 907-445-2122, Fax 907-445-2174, E-mail: cityofamblerak@yahoo.com

Village Council - Ambler Traditional Council, P.O. Box 47, Ambler, AK 99786, Phone 907-445-2196, Fax 907-445-2181, E-mail: vcommack@maniilaq.org

Current Population: 426 (2002 est. by State Demographer, DOL/WD)
Incorporation Type: 2nd Class City
Taxes: Sales: 2%, Property: None, Special: None

Location and Climate
Buckland is located on the west bank of the Buckland River, about 75 miles southeast of Kotzebue. It lies at approximately 65.97972° North Latitude and -161.12306° West Longitude. (Sec. 26, T007N, R012W, Kateel River Meridian.) Buckland is located in the Cape Nome Recording District. The area encompasses 1.2 sq. miles of land and 0.2 sq. miles of water. Buckland is located in the transitional climate zone which is characterized by long, cold winters and cool summers. Temperatures range from -60 to the mid-80s. Snowfall averages 40 inches, with 9 inches of precipitation per year. Crosswinds can restrict flying during the winter.

History, Culture and Demographics
The residents have moved from one site to another along the river at least five times in recent memory, to places known as Elephant Point, Old Buckland and New Site. The presence of many fossil finds at Elephant Point indicate prehistoric occupation of the area. The Inupiaq Eskimos depend on reindeer, beluga whale and seal for survival. The City government was incorporated in 1966.

A federally recognized tribe is located in the community -- the Native Village of Buckland. 96.8% of the population are Alaska Native or part Native. Buckland is an Inupiat Eskimo village, and subsistence activities are an important focus of the economy. The sale or importation of alcohol is banned in the village.

During the 2000 U.S. Census, there were 89 total housing units, and 5 were vacant. 94 residents were employed. The unemployment rate at that time was 33.8%, although 57.27% of all adults were not in the work force. The median household income was $38,333, per capita income was $9,624, and 11.92% of residents were living below the poverty level.

Facilities, Utilities, Schools and Health Care
Water is pumped from Buckland River, treated in the washeteria building, and stored in a 100,000-gallon tank. Some residents have water delivered to home tanks, but most haul their own water. The City pumps flush/haul waste tanks or hauls honeybuckets to the sewage lagoon. A flush/haul system has been problematic on the South side of town, and freezes and fails during the winter. Only 8 homes and the school have functioning plumbing; 74 homes are not served. Major improvements are underway -- a new water treatment plant and sewage lagoon improvements are under construction. Serving the 26 homes on the south side are the priority. Individuals dispose of refuse in dumpsters, which are hauled to the landfill. DEC has approved the landfill for use, although it is not permitted.

Electricity is provided by City of Buckland.

There is one school located in the community, attended by 170 students.

Local hospitals or health clinics include Buckland Health Clinic.

Economy and Transportation
Residents depend on a subsistence lifestyle for most food sources. A herd of more than 2,000 reindeer are managed; workers are paid in meat. Employment is primarily with the school, City, health clinic and stores. There are 65 fulltime jobs including 27 with the school district, 12 with Maniilaq, 12 with the City, seven with the IRA, five at the general store, two with OTZ Telephone and one each with NANA & the U.S. Postal Service. Another 15 residents are employed by Teck-Cominco and commute to the Red Dog mine. Some mining also occurs. One resident holds a commercial fishing permit. The community is interested in developing a Native food products and crafts manufacturing facility to produce reindeer sausage, berry products, labrador tea and ivory and wood carving.

Buckland's major means of transportation are plane, small boat, barge and snowmachine; there are no roads outside of the village. Buckland has a State-owned 2,580' gravel airstrip which serves a number of scheduled and chartered flights. Crowley Marine barges in fuel, and various lighterage companies deliver cargo and supplies each summer.

Organizations with Local Offices
City - City of Buckland, P.O. Box 49, Buckland, AK 99727, Phone 907-494-2121, Fax 907-494-2138, E-mail: dhadley@maniilaq.org
Village Council - Native Village of Buckland, P.O. Box 67, Buckland, AK 99727, Phone 907-494-2171, Fax 907-494-2217, E-mail: gcparrish@maniilaq.org

Current Population: 129 (2002 est. by State Demographer, DOL/WD)
Incorporation Type: 2nd Class City
Taxes: Sales: 3%, Property: None, Special: None

Location and Climate
Deering is located on Kotzebue Sound at the mouth of the Inmachuk River, 57 miles southwest of Kotzebue. It is built on a flat sand and gravel spit 300 feet wide and a half-mile long. It lies at approximately 66.07497° North Latitude and -162.71274° West Longitude. (Sec. 20, T008N, R019W, Kateel River Meridian.) Deering is located in the Cape Nome Recording District. The area encompasses 5.1 sq. miles of land and 0.1 sq. miles of water. Deering is located in the transitional climate zone which is characterized by long, cold winters and cool summers. The average low temperature during January is -18; the average high during July is 63. Temperature extremes have been measured from -60 to 85. Snowfall averages 36 inches, with a total precipitation of 9 inches per year. Kotzebue Sound is ice-free from early July until mid-October.

History, Culture and Demographics
The village was established in 1901 as a supply station for Interior gold mining near the historic Malemiut Eskimo village of "Inmachukmiut." The name Deering was probably taken from the 90-ton schooner "Abbey Deering," which was in nearby waters around 1900. The City was incorporated in 1970.

A federally recognized tribe is located in the community -- the Native Village of Deering. 94.1% of the population are Alaska Native or part Native. The population of the village is primarily Inupiat Eskimo. The people are active in subsistence. The sale or importation of alcohol is banned in the village.

During the 2000 U.S. Census, there were 61 total housing units, and 19 were vacant. 9 of these vacant housing units are used only seasonally. 44 residents were employed. The unemployment rate at that time was 16.98%, although 51.65% of all adults were not in the work force. The median household income was $33,333, per capita income was $11,000, and 5.76% of residents were living below the poverty level.

Facilities, Utilities, Schools and Health Care
Water is derived from the Inmachuk River, is treated and pumped to a 400,000-gallon insulated storage tank. Water is delivered to home tanks or hauled from the watering point. Major improvements are under construction for a water haul and vacuum sewer system. A new washeteria and water treatment plant are nearing completion. Archaeological remains were discovered while excavating for the new system. The City would like to purchase an incinerator with waste heat recovery to reduce the volume of refuse.

Electricity is provided by Ipnatchiaq Electric Company.

There is one school located in the community, attended by 43 students.

Local hospitals or health clinics include Deering Health Clinic.

Economy and Transportation
Deering's economy is a mix of cash and subsistence activities. Moose, seal and beluga whale provide most meat sources; pink salmon, tom cod, herring, ptarmigan, rabbit and waterfowl are also utilized. The Karmun-Moto reindeer herd of 1,400 animals provides some local employment. A number of residents earn income from handicrafts and trapping. The village is interested in developing a craft production facility and cultural center to train youth in Native crafts. The school, City, Maniilaq Assoc., stores, and an airline provide the only year-round jobs. As of June, 2003, the were 18 fulltime jobs in Deering, include five with the IRA, five airline agents, two each with Maniilaq, the City & store and one each with NANA & the Post Office. One resident commutes to the Red Dog Mine. Some mining occurs in the Seward Peninsula's interior. Three residents hold commercial fishing permits. The village wants to develop eco-tourism, including a 38-mile road to Inmachuk Springs for tourists.

Deering is accessible year-round by plane. A new State-owned 2,600' gravel airstrip, with a 2,080' crosswind strip, enables flights by several Kotzebue air services. Crowley Marine Services barges fuel and goods from Kotzebue each summer. Small boats, ATVs and snowmachines are used for local travel. Winter trails are available to Candle and Buckland.

Organizations with Local Offices
City - City of Deering, P.O. Box 36049, Deering, AK 99736, Phone 907-363-2136, Fax 907-363-2156
Electric Utility - Ipnatchiaq Electric Company, P.O. Box 36021, Deering, AK 99736, Phone 907-363-2157, Fax 907-363-2156
Village Council - Native Village of Deering, P.O. Box 89, Deering, AK 99736, Phone 907-363-2138, Fax 907-363-2195

Current Population: 399 (2002 est. by State Demographer, DOL/WD)
Incorporation Type: 2nd Class City
Taxes: Sales: 2%, Property: None, Special: None

Location and Climate
Kiana is located on the north bank of the Kobuk River, 57 air miles east of Kotzebue. It lies at approximately 66.975° North Latitude and -160.42278° West Longitude. (Sec. 09, T018N, R008W, Kateel River Meridian.) Kiana is located in the Kotzebue Recording District. The area encompasses 0.2 sq. miles of land and 0.0 sq. miles of water. Kiana is located in the transitional climate zone. Temperatures average -10 to 15 during winter; 40 to 60 during summer. Temperature extremes have been recorded from -54 to 87. Snowfall averages 60 inches, with 16 inches of total precipitation per year. The Kobuk River is navigable from the end of May to early October.

History, Culture and Demographics
Kiana means "a place where three rivers meet." It was established long ago as the central village of the Kobuk River Kowagmiut Inupiat Eskimos. In 1909, it became a supply center for the Squirrel River placer mines. A post office was established in 1915. The City government was incorporated in 1964. Prior to the formation of the Northwest Arctic Borough in 1976, the BIA high school taught students from Noatak, Shungnak and Ambler, who boarded with local residents.

A federally recognized tribe is located in the community -- the Kiana Traditional Council. 92.8% of the population are Alaska Native or part Native. Kiana is a traditional Inupiat Eskimo village practicing a subsistence lifestyle. The sale or importation of alcohol is banned in the village.

During the 2000 U.S. Census, there were 133 total housing units, and 36 were vacant. 3 of these vacant housing units are used only seasonally. 99 residents were employed. The unemployment rate at that time was 11.61%, although 51.23% of all adults were not in the work force. The median household income was $39,688, per capita income was $11,534, and 11.24% of residents were living below the poverty level.

Facilities, Utilities, Schools and Health Care
A 200,000-gallon steel tank is intermittently filled from two wells near the Kobuk River. Water is chlorinated prior to distribution through buried water mains. Piped water and sewer are provided to 73 homes, the clinic, school and community hall. Kiana maintains a 6-inch buried gravity sewer system, which drains to a lift station and is pumped through a buried force main to the sewage treatment lagoon northeast of the village. 19 households haul water and use honeybuckets or septic tanks. The landfill is located west of the sewage disposal lagoon. The site needs to be relocated. A water and sewer Master Plan, new water treatment, and additional service connections have been funded.

Electricity is provided by AVEC.

There is one school located in the community, attended by 120 students.

Local hospitals or health clinics include Kiana Health Clinic.

Economy and Transportation
The economy depends on traditional subsistence activities, augmented by a cash economy. Chum salmon, freshwater fish, moose, caribou, waterfowl and berries are harvested. As of June, 2003, there are 49 fulltime jobs including 24 with the school district, 10 with Maniilaq, six with the City, five with the IRA, three at the local stores, three airline agents and one postal worker. The Red Dog Mine also employs 12 fulltime commuters at Teck Cominco, four for NANA Managment and one for NANA-Lynden. Kiana is one of the more modern villages in the Borough, and has three general stores. Two residents hold commercial fishing permits; seasonal employment also includes work on river barges, BLM fire-fighting and jade mining. There is local interest in constructing a whitefish and turbot value-added processing plant. The City is also interested in developing eco-tourism, primarily guided river trips to the Great Kobuk Sand Dunes.

The major means of transportation are plane, small boat and snowmachine. The State-owned Bob Baker Memorial Airport has a 3,400' lighted gravel runway. Daily scheduled flights and charter flights are provided. Crowley Marine Services barges fuel and supplies each summer, and local store owners have large boats to bring supplies upriver. Boats, ATVs and snowmachines are used extensively for local travel, and there are many trucks. A road extends along the river to Kobuk Camp, and a network of old trading trails exists.

Organizations with Local Offices
City - City of Kiana, P.O. Box 150, Kiana, AK 99749, Phone 907-475-2136, Fax 907-475-2174, E-mail: cityofkiana@inutek.net, hapok@maniilaq.org
Village Council - Kiana Traditional Council, P.O. Box 69, Kiana, AK 99749, Phone 907-475-2109, Fax 907-475-2180

Current Population: 383 (2002 est. by State Demographer, DOL/WD)
Incorporation Type: 2nd Class City
Taxes: Sales: 2%, Property: None, Special: None

Location and Climate
Kivalina is at the tip of an 8-mile barrier reef located between the Chukchi Sea and Kivalina River. It lies 80 air miles northwest of Kotzebue. It lies at approximately 67.72694° North Latitude and -164.53333° West Longitude. (Sec. 21, T027N, R026W, Kateel River Meridian.) Kivalina is located in the Kotzebue Recording District. The area encompasses 1.9 sq. miles of land and 2.0 sq. miles of water. Kivalina lies in the transitional climate zone which is characterized by long, cold winters and cool summers. The average low temperature during January is -15; the average high during July is 57. Temperature extremes have been measured from -54 to 85. Snowfall averages 57 inches, with 8.6 inches of precipitation per year. The Chukchi Sea is ice-free and open to boat traffic from mid-June to the first of November.

History, Culture and Demographics
Kivalina has long been a stopping-off place for seasonal travelers between arctic coastal areas and Kotzebue Sound communities. It is the only village in the region where people hunt the bowhead whale. At one time, the village was located at the north end of the Kivalina Lagoon. It was reported as "Kivualinagmut" in 1847 by Lt. Zagoskin of the Russian Navy. Lt. G.M. Stoney of the U.S. Navy reported the village as "Kuveleek" in 1885. A post office was established in 1940. An airstrip was built in 1960. Kivalina incorporated as a City in 1969. During the 1970s, new houses, a new school and an electric system were constructed in the village. Prior to 1976, high school students from Noatak would attend school in Kivalina, and board with local families. Due to severe erosion and wind-driven ice damage, the City intends to relocate to a new site 7.5 miles away. Relocation alternatives have been studied and a new site has been designed and engineered. The relocation is estimated to cost $102 million.

A federally recognized tribe is located in the community -- the Native Village of Kivalina. 96.6% of the population are Alaska Native or part Native. Kivalina is a traditional Inupiat Eskimo village. Subsistence activities, including whaling, provide most food sources. The sale or importation of alcohol is banned in the village. During the 2000 U.S. Census, there were 80 total housing units, and 2 were vacant. 82 residents were employed. The unemployment rate at that time was 25.45%, although 65.11% of all adults were not in the work force. The median household income was $30,833, per capita income was $8,360, and 26.4% of residents were living below the poverty level.

Facilities, Utilities, Schools and Health Care
Wells have proven unsuccessful in Kivalina. Water is drawn from the Wulik River via a 3-mile surface transmission line, and is stored in a 700,000-gallon raw water tank. It is then treated and stored in a 500,000-gallon steel tank. Water is hauled by residents from this tank. One-third of residents have tanks which provide running water for the kitchen, but homes are not fully plumbed. The school and clinic have individual water and sewer systems. Residents haul their own honeybuckets to bunkers. A new landfill and honeybucket disposal site were recently completed. A Master Plan is underway to examine sanitation alternatives at the new community site.

Electricity is provided by AVEC.

There is one school located in the community, attended by 127 students.

Local hospitals or health clinics include Kivalina Health Clinic.

Economy and Transportation
Kivalina's economy depends on subsistence practices. Seal, walrus, whale, salmon, whitefish and caribou are utilized. The school, City, Maniilaq Association, village council, airlines and local stores provide year-round jobs. As of June 2003, there are 39 fulltime jobs in Kivalina iincluding 20 with the school district, six airline agents, five with Maniilaq, three with the IRA, three with the store, two with the city and one with the Post Office. 10 residents commute to work for Teck Cominco at the Red Dog Mine. Six residents hold commercial fishing permits. Native carvings and jewelry are produced from ivory and caribou hooves. The community is interested in developing an Arts and Crafts Center that could be readily moved to the new city site. The major means of transportation into the community are plane and barge. The community needs a road to the proposed new City site, 7.5 miles away. A State-owned 3,000' gravel airstrip serves daily flights from Kotzebue. Crowley Marine Services barges goods from Kotzebue during July and August. Small boats, ATVs and snowmachines are used for local travel. Two main hunting trails follow the Kivalina and Wulik Rivers.

Organizations with Local Offices
City - City of Kivalina, P.O. Box 50079, Kivalina, AK 99750, Phone 907-645-2137, Fax 907-645-2175
Village Council - Native Village of Kivalina, P.O. Box 50051, Kivalina, AK 99750, Phone 907-645-2153, Fax 907-645-2193, E-mail: cekoenig@maniilaq.org

Current Population: 106 (2002 est. by State Demographer, DOL/WD)
Incorporation Type: 2nd Class City
Taxes: Sales: None, Property: None, Special: None

Location and Climate
Kobuk is located on the right bank of the Kobuk River, about 7 miles northeast of Shungnak and 128 air miles northeast of Kotzebue. It is the smallest village in the Northwest Arctic Borough. It lies at approximately 66.90857° North Latitude and -156.88102° West Longitude. (Sec. 03, T017N, R009E, Kateel River Meridian.) Kobuk is located in the Kotzebue Recording District. The area encompasses 16.1 sq. miles of land and 0.7 sq. miles of water. Kobuk is located in the transitional climate zone. Temperatures average -10 to 15 during winter; 40 to 65 during summer. Temperature extremes have been recorded from -68 to 90. Snowfall averages 56 inches, with 17 inches of total precipitation per year. The Kobuk River is navigable from the end of May through October.

History, Culture and Demographics
Kobuk was founded in 1899 as a supply point for mining activities in the Cosmos Hills to the north, and was then called Shungnak. A trading post, school, and Friends Mission drew area residents to the settlement. Due to river erosion and flooding, the village was relocated in the 1920s to a new site 10 miles downstream, which was called "Kochuk," now Shungnak. The few who remained at the village renamed it Kobuk. Ice jams on the River cause high water each year. In May 1973, a flood covered the entire village. In October 1973, the City was incorporated.

A federally recognized tribe is located in the community -- the Native Village of Kobuk. 93.6% of the population are Alaska Native or part Native. It is an Inupiat Eskimo village practicing a traditional subsistence lifestyle. The sale or importation of alcohol is banned in the village. High School students attend school in Shungnak.

During the 2000 U.S. Census, there were 45 total housing units, and 19 were vacant. 11 of these vacant housing units are used only seasonally. 29 residents were employed. The unemployment rate at that time was 0%, although 55.38% of all adults were not in the work force. The median household income was $30,750, per capita income was $9,845, and 28.57% of residents were living below the poverty level. Facilities, Utilities, Schools and Health Care Major improvements are under construction to provide a piped water and sewer system, including household plumbing. A 30-foot well provides water, which is treated and currently hauled by residents from the washeteria. Honeybuckets and privies are currently used by most residences, but plumbing is under construction. The washeteria has its own septic tank. Waste is disposed of at Dall Creek. A new landfill was recently completed. Kobuk Valley Electric Co-op purchases power from AVEC over the Kobuk-Shungnak intertie.

Electricity is provided by Kobuk Valley Electric Cooperative (from Shungnak AVEC).

There is one school located in the community, attended by 42 students.

Local hospitals or health clinics include Kobuk Health Clinic.

Economy and Transportation
The economy of Kobuk is based on subsistence. Whitefish, caribou and moose provide the majority of meat sources. Cash employment is limited to the school, City and Maniilaq clinic. One resident works for NANA Management Services at the Red Dog Mine. Seasonal construction and BLM fire fighting provide some income. Kobuk's major means of transportation are barge, plane, small boat and snowmachine. A State-owned 2,360' lighted gravel airstrip is served by scheduled air carriers. Float planes land on the Kobuk River. Crowley Marine Services barges fuel and supplies during the spring and fall, when high water stages occur. There is a barge off-loading area. Boats, ATVs and snowmachines are used for local travel. There are many trails along the river for year-round inter-village travel and subsistence activities, including a 7-mile road to Shungnak.

Organizations with Local Offices
City - City of Kobuk, P.O. Box 20, Kobuk, AK 99751, Phone 907-948-2217, Fax 907-948-2228 Electric Utility - Kobuk Valley Electric Cooperative, P.O. Box 20, Kobuk, AK 99571, Phone 907-948-2217, Fax 907-948-2228 Village Council - Native Village of Kobuk, P.O. Box 51039, Kobuk, AK 99751, Phone 907-948-2203, Fax 907-948-2123

Current Population: 3,107 (2002 est. by State Demographer, DOL/WD)
Incorporation Type: 2nd Class City
Taxes: Sales: 6%, Property: None, Special: 6% Accommodations Tax; 6% Liquor Tax

Location and Climate
Kotzebue is on the Baldwin Peninsula in Kotzebue Sound, on a 3-mile-long spit, which ranges in width from 1,100 to 3,600 feet. It is located near the discharges of the Kobuk, Noatak and Ssezawick Rivers, 549 air miles northwest of Anchorage and 26 miles above the Arctic Circle. It lies at approximately 66.89828° North Latitude and -162.59585° West Longitude. (Sec. 03, T017N, R018W, Kateel River Meridian.) Kotzebue is located in the Kotzebue Recording District. The area encompasses 27.0 sq. miles of land and 1.7 sq. miles of water. Kotzebue is located in the transitional climate zone, which is characterized by long, cold winters and cool summers. The average low temperature during January is -12; the average high during July is 58. Temperature extremes have been measured from -52 to 85. Snowfall averages 40 inches, with total precipitation of 9 inches per year. Kotzebue Sound is ice-free from early July until early October.

History, Culture and Demographics
This site has been occupied by Inupiat Eskimos for at least 600 years. "Kikiktagruk" was the hub of ancient arctic trading routes long before European contact, due to its coastal location near a number of rivers. The German Lt. Otto Von Kotzebue "discovered" Kotzebue Sound in 1818 for Russia. The community was named after the Kotzebue Sound in 1899 when a post office was established. Since the turn of the century, expansion of economic activities and services in the area have enabled Kotzebue to develop relatively rapidly. The City was formed in 1958. An Air Force Base and White Alice Communications System were later constructed.

A federally recognized tribe is located in the community -- the Kotzebue IRA Council. 76.7% of the population are Alaska Native or part Native. The residents of Kotzebue are primarily Inupiat Eskimos, and subsistence activities are an integral part of the lifestyle. Each summer, the North Tent City fish camp is set up to dry and smoke the season's catch. The sale of alcohol is banned, although importation or possession is allowed.

During the 2000 U.S. Census, there were 1,007 total housing units, and 118 were vacant. 47 of these vacant housing units are used only seasonally. 1,255 residents were employed. The unemployment rate at that time was 9.8%, although 36.78% of all adults were not in the work force. The median household income was $57,163, per capita income was $18,289, and 13.14% of residents were living below the poverty level.

Facilities, Utilities, Schools and Health Care
Water is supplied by the 150-million-gallon Vortac Reservoir, located one and a half miles from the City. Water is treated and stored in a 1.5-million-gallon tank. Funds have been requested to construct a second 1.5-million-gallon tank. Water is heated with a waste heat recovery system at the electric plant, and distributed in circulating mains. Piped sewage is treated in a 32-acre zero discharge facultative lagoon west of the airport. Significant improvements are needed to this 30-year-old facility. About 80% of homes are fully plumbed, and 521 homes are served by the City system. The 30-year-old PVC water and sewer mains are currently undergoing replacement. A new transfer station and Class 2 permitted landfill with balefill has recently been completed. Recycling and hazardous waste disposal have been improved. Kotzebue uses ten 50 kilowatt wind turbines to supplement electricity.

Electricity is provided by Kotzebue Electric Association.

There are 3 schools located in the community, attended by 832 students.

Local hospitals or health clinics include Maniilaq Health Center (PHS 442-3321); state clinic. The hospital is a qualified Acute Care facility. Long Term Care: Kotzebue Senior Center. Specialized Care: Lake Street House (Maniilaq lodging); Maniilaq Alcohol Program (442-3311 x139); Maniilaq Camp Auxiliary health care is provided by Kotzebue Volunteer Fire Dept. (442-3404/3351); Maniilaq Air Ambulance (442-3321).

Economy and Transportation
Kotzebue is the service and transportation center for all villages in the northwest region. It has a healthy cash economy, a growing private sector, and a stable public sector. Due to its location at the confluence of three river drainages, Kotzebue is the transfer point between ocean and inland shipping. It is also the air transport center for the region. Activities related to oil and minerals exploration and development have contributed to the economy. The majority of income is directly or indirectly related to government employment, such as the School District, Maniilaq Association, the City and Borough. The Cominco Alaska Red Dog Mine is a significant regional employer. Commercial fishing for chum salmon provides some seasonal employment. 128 residents hold commercial fishing permits. Most residents rely on subsistence to supplement income.

Air is the primary means of transportation year-round. The State-owned Ralph Wien Memorial Airport supports daily jet service to Anchorage and several air taxis to the region's villages. It has a 5,900' main paved runway and 3,900' crosswind gravel runway. A seaplane base is also operated by the State. The shipping season lasts 100 days, from early July to early October, when the Sound is ice-free. Due to river sediments deposited by the Noatak River 4 miles above Kotzebue, the harbor is shallow. Deep draft vessels must anchor 15 miles out, and cargo is lightered to shore and warehoused. Crowley Marine Services operates shallow draft barges to deliver cargo to area communities. The City wants to examine the feasibility of developing a deep water port, since the cost of cargo delivery is high with the existing transportation systems. There are 26 miles of local gravel roads, used by cars, trucks and motorcycles during the summer. Snowmachines are preferred in winter for local transportation.

Organizations with Local Offices
City - City of Kotzebue, P.O. Box 46, Kotzebue, AK 99752, Phone 907-442-3401, Fax 907-442-3742, E-mail: hreich@kotzebue.org, Web: http://kotzpdweb.tripod.com/city/index.html
Electric Utility - Kotzebue Electric Association, P.O. Box 44, Kotzebue, AK 99752, Phone 907-442-3491, Fax 907-442-2482
Housing Authority - Northwest Inupiat Housing Auth, P.O. Box 331, Kotzebue, AK 99752, Phone 907-442-3450, Fax 907-442-3486, E-mail: gadams@maniilaq.org
Housing Authority - Tupiiq Services, P.O. Box 536, Kotzebue, AK 99752, Phone 907-442-3378, Fax 907-442-3538
Media - KOTZ Radio, P.O. Box 78, Kotzebue, AK 99752, Phone 907-442-3435, Fax 907-442-2292, E-mail: kotzgm@eagle.ptialaska.net
Regional Development - NW Arctic Economic Dev. Comm., P.O. Box 1110, Kotzebue, AK 99752, Phone 907-442-2500, Fax 907-442-3740, E-mail: lstoops@nwabor.org, Web: http://www.northwestarcticborough.org/edc/
Regional Health Corporation - Maniilaq Assoc., P.O. Box 256, Kotzebue, AK 99752, Phone 907-442-3311, Fax 907-442-7678, E-mail: jdallemolle@maniilaq.org, Web: http://www.maniilaq.org/
Regional Native Corporation - NANA Regional Corporation, 101 E. Benson Blvd., Anchorage, AK 99508, Phone 907-265-4100, Fax 907-265-4123, E-mail: marie.greene@nana.com, Web: http://www.nana.com/
Village Corporation - Kikiktagruk Inupiat Corporation, P.O. Box 1050, Kotzebue, AK 99752, Phone 907-442-3165, Fax 907-442-2165
Village Council - Kotzebue IRA Council, P.O. Box 296, Kotzebue, AK 99752, Phone 907-442-3467, Fax 907-442-2162

Current Population: 455 (2002 est. by State Demographer, DOL/WD)
Incorporation Type: Unincorporated
Taxes: Sales: None, Property: None, Special: None

Location and Climate
Noatak is located on the west bank of the Noatak River, 55 miles north of Kotzebue and 70 miles north of the Arctic Circle. This is the only settlement on the 396 mile-long Noatak River, just west of the 66-million acre Noatak National Preserve. It lies at approximately 67.57111° North Latitude and -162.96528° West Longitude. (Sec. 16, T025N, R019W, Kateel River Meridian.) Noatak is located in the Kotzebue Recording District. The area encompasses 11.6 sq. miles of land and 0.7 sq. miles of water. Noatak is located in the transitional climate zone. Temperatures average -21 to 15 during winter; 40 to 60 during summer. Temperature extremes have been recorded from -59 to 75. Snowfall averages 48 inches, with 10 to 13 inches of total precipitation per year. The Noatak River is navigable by shallow-draft boats from early June to early October.

History, Culture and Demographics
It was established as a fishing and hunting camp in the 19th century. The rich resources of this region enabled the camp to develop into a permanent settlement. The 1880 census listed the site as Noatagamut, which means "inland river people." A post office was established in 1940.

A federally recognized tribe is located in the community -- the Noatak Village Council. 96% of the population are Alaska Native or part Native. The village is Inupiat Eskimo. Subsistence activities are the central focus of the culture, and families travel to fish camps during the summer. The sale or importation of alcohol is banned in the village.

During the 2000 U.S. Census, there were 106 total housing units, and 6 were vacant. 106 residents were employed. The unemployment rate at that time was 25.35%, although 58.91% of all adults were not in the work force. The median household income was $30,833, per capita income was $9,659, and 22.04% of residents were living below the poverty level.

Facilities, Utilities, Schools and Health Care
Water is derived from the Noatak River and is treated. The primary well occasionally runs dry -- groundwater wells have been unsuccessful in the area. A piped, recirculating water and sewer distribution system serves 77 homes, the school and businesses in Noatak. However, over half of the homes cannot use the service due to lack of plumbing. These residents haul water and honeybuckets; there is no washeteria. The village has requested funding for a Master Plan to upgrade the water supply, expand the piped system, add plumbing facilities where necessary, and to construct a washeteria. The landfill has recently been relocated west of the airport.

Electricity is provided by AVEC.

There is one school located in the community, attended by 160 students.

Local hospitals or health clinics include Noatak Health Clinic.

Economy and Transportation
Noatak's economy is principally based on subsistence, although the available employment is diverse. The school district, City, Maniilaq and retail stores are the primary employers. In June of 2003, Noatak had 54 fulltime jobs excluding Maniilaq. The school district employed 25, another 10 work for the IRA, nine airline agents, six at the local store and one each at OTZ Telephone, Post Office, Department of Transportation and GCI Cable. Another 23 residents work at the Red Dog Mine. Seven residents hold commercial fishing permits. During the summer, many families travel to seasonal fish camps at Sheshalik, and others find seasonal work in Kotzebue or fire-fighting. Chum salmon, whitefish, caribou, moose and waterfowl are harvested. Noatak is primarily accessed by air. The State-owned lighted gravel runway is 4,000'. Six regional air services provide cargo, mail and passenger services. There are currently no barge services to Noatak. Small boats, ATVs and snowmachines are used extensively for local transportation. Many historic trails along the Noatak River are important today for inter-village travel and subsistence uses.

Organizations with Local Offices
Village Council - Native Village of Noatak, P.O. Box 89, Noatak, AK 99761, Phone 907-485-2173, Fax 907-485-2137, E-mail: hwalton@maniilaq.org

Current Population: 677 (2002 est. by State Demographer, DOL/WD)
Incorporation Type: 2nd Class City
Taxes: Sales: 3%, Property: None, Special: None

Location and Climate
Noorvik is located on the right bank of the Nazuruk Channel of the Kobuk River, 33 miles northwest of Selawik and 45 miles east of Kotzebue. The village is downriver from the 1.7-million acre Kobuk Valley National Park. It lies at approximately 66.83833° North Latitude and -161.03278° West Longitude. (Sec. 27, T017N, R011W, Kateel River Meridian.) Noorvik is located in the Kotzebue Recording District. The area encompasses 1.0 sq. miles of land and 0.4 sq. miles of water. The community is located in the transitional climate zone. Temperatures average -10 to 15 during winter; 40 to 65 during summer. Temperature extremes have been recorded from -54 to 87. Snowfall averages 60 inches, with 16 inches of total precipitation per year. The Kobuk River is navigable from early June to mid-October.

History, Culture and Demographics
Noorvik means "a place that is moved to." The village was established by Kowagmuit Inupiat Eskimo fishermen and hunters from Deering in the early 1900s. The village was also settled by people from Oksik, a few miles upriver. A post office was established in 1937. The City government was incorporated in 1964.

A federally recognized tribe is located in the community -- the Noorvik Native Community. 95% of the population are Alaska Native or part Native. Noorvik is primarily an Inupiat Eskimo community with a subsistence lifestyle. The sale or importation of alcohol is banned in the village.

During the 2000 U.S. Census, there were 157 total housing units, and 21 were vacant. 6 of these vacant housing units are used only seasonally. 181 residents were employed. The unemployment rate at that time was 19.56%, although 58.29% of all adults were not in the work force. The median household income was $51,964, per capita income was $12,020, and 7.57% of residents were living below the poverty level.

Facilities, Utilities, Schools and Health Care
Water is pumped from the Kobuk River to the water treatment/utility building, and stored in a tank. From there, a pressurized circulating system distributes water in utilidors. Groundwater wells have proven unsuccessful. Noorvik has a vacuum sewer system in which waste is carried by air instead of water. Vacuum pressure pumps the sewage to the 60,000-gal. collection and treatment plant. The system requires special toilets and water valves which collect wastewater from the sinks, toilets and showers. Over 100 homes, the schools and businesses are served. Funds have been requested to connect and plumb the remaining 16 unserved homes on the south side of town and along River Road. A new landfill and access road are under development. Funds have also been requested to construct a multi-purpose facility, including a new washeteria, recreation center, Head Start, day care center, a restaurant, Native Crafts production and a food processing plant. The community is interested using wind energy; a wind monitoring tower will be installed in 2002.

Electricity is provided by AVEC.

There is one school located in the community, attended by 229 students.

Local hospitals or health clinics include Noorvik Health Clinic.

Economy and Transportation
The primary local employers are the school district, the City, the Maniilaq health clinic, Red Dog Mine and two stores. There are 88 fulltime jobs in Noorvik including 34 with the school district, 11 with Maniilaq, eight with the IRA, eight with the City, seven with the stores and one with the United States Post Office. In addition, 17 residents work for Teck Cominco and commute to the Red Dog Mine. Part time work including agents for regional airlines and seasonal employment at the Red Dog Mine, BLM fire fighting, or work in Kotzebue is also available. Seven residents hold commercial fishing permits. Caribou, fish, moose, waterfowl and berries are utilized.

Noorvik is accessible by plane and by shallow-draft vessels. There are no roads linking the village to other areas of the state. The State-owned Robert (Bob) Curtis Memorial Airport has a 3,200' lighted gravel runway and a 2,600' gravel crosswind runway. The airport is the second-largest in the borough. A new $5 million airport is under construction. Several regional air taxis provide service to Kotzebue and surrounding cities. Crowley Marine Services barges fuel and supplies during the summer. Boats, ATVs and snowmachines are common means of transportation locally.

Organizations with Local Offices
City - City of Noorvik, P.O. Box 146, Noorvik, AK 99763, Phone 907-636-2100, Fax 907-636-2135
Housing Authority - Noorvik Eskimo Tribal Housing Program, P.O. Box 209, Noorvik, AK 99763, Phone 907-636-2144, Fax 907-636-2284, E-mail: fsmith@maniilaq.org
Village Council - Noorvik Native Community, P.O. Box 209, Noorvik, AK 99763, Phone 907-636-2144, Fax 907-636-2284

Current Population: 778 (2002 est. by State Demographer, DOL/WD)
Incorporation Type: 2nd Class City
Taxes: Sales: 3%, Property: None, Special: None

Location and Climate
Selawik is located at the mouth of the Selawik River where it empties into Selawik Lake, about 90 miles east of Kotzebue. It lies 670 miles northwest of Anchorage. The City is near the Selawik National Wildlife Refuge, a key breeding and resting spot for migratory waterfowl. It lies at approximately 66.60389° North Latitude and -160.00694° West Longitude. (Sec. 20, T014N, R006W, Kateel River Meridian.) Selawik is located in the Kotzebue Recording District. The area encompasses 2.5 sq. miles of land and 0.9 sq. miles of water. The community is located in the transitional climate zone. Temperatures average -10 to 15 during winter; 40 to 65 during summer. Temperature extremes have been recorded from -50 to 83. Snowfall averages 35 to 40 inches, with 10 inches of total precipitation per year. The Selawik River is navigable from early June to mid-October.

History, Culture and Demographics
Lt. L.A. Zagoskin of the Imperial Russian Navy first reported the village in the 1840s as "Chilivik." Ivan Petroff counted 100 "Selawigamute" people in his 1880 census. Selawik is an Eskimo name for a species of fish. Around 1908, the site had a small wooden schoolhouse and church. The village has continued to grow and has expanded across the Selawik River onto three banks, linked by bridges. Selawik incorporated as a First Class City in 1974, but in 1977, changed to a Second Class City government.

A federally recognized tribe is located in the community -- the Native Village of Selawik. 95.3% of the population are Alaska Native or part Native. Selawik is an Inupiat Eskimo community active in traditional subsistence fishing and hunting. The sale or importation of alcohol is banned in the village.

During the 2000 U.S. Census, there were 188 total housing units, and 16 were vacant. 1 of these vacant housing units are used only seasonally. 130 residents were employed. The unemployment rate at that time was 34.34%, although 70.85% of all adults were not in the work force. The median household income was $25,625, per capita income was $8,170, and 34.38% of residents were living below the poverty level.

Facilities, Utilities, Schools and Health Care
A circulating water and vacuum sewer system was recently completed. A central treatment facility pumps water from the Selawik River, providing up to 8,000 gallons a day. Groundwater wells have been unsuccessful. 53 homes in the West II area of town and 20 new HUD homes have been plumbed and connected. About 30 homes are now connected on the island and near the airport. A new permitted landfill is needed.

Electricity is provided by AVEC.

There is one school located in the community, attended by 266 students.

Local hospitals or health clinics include Selawik Health Clinic. Auxiliary health care is provided by Selawik Area Vol. Emergency Rescue (484-2202).

Economy and Transportation
Inhabitants of Selawik subsist mainly on whitefish, sheefish, caribou, moose, ducks, ptarmigan and berries. Occasionally, bartered seal and beluga whale supplement the diet. The primary employers in the community include the school, the City, the IRA, Maniilaq and three grocery stores. Fulltime jobs include 22 with the IRA, 12 with the City, 11 with local stores, eight airline agents and one each AVEC, OTZ Telephone and the airport. 10 residents commute to the Red Dog Mine. Handicrafts are made and sold locally and at gift shops in larger cities. Seasonal work is also found outside of Selawik at the Red Dog Mine, BLM firefighting or in lighterage operations. Three residents hold commercial fishing permits.

Selawik is accessible by plane and barge. The Roland Norton Memorial Airport provides a 3,000' gravel runway owned by the City. The State also owns a 3,000' gravel airstrip with a 2,670' crosswind strip. Scheduled flights are available to Kotzebue and area villages. Docking facilities and a barge landing area exist; freight is shipped upriver from Kotzebue each summer by Crowley Marine Services. Boardwalks have been constructed within the village. Boats, ATVs and snowmachines are prevalent forms of local travel.

Organizations with Local Offices
City - City of Selawik, P.O. Box 99, Selawik, AK 99770, Phone 907-484-2132, Fax 907-484-2209, E-mail: city_of_selawik@hotmail.com
Village Council - Selawik IRA Council, P.O. Box 59, Selawik, AK 99770, Phone 907-484-2165, Fax 907-484-2226, E-mail: mcticket@maniilaq.org

Current Population: 249 (2002 est. by State Demographer, DOL/WD)
Incorporation Type: 2nd Class City
Taxes: Sales: 2%, Property: None, Special: None

Location and Climate
Shungnak is located on the west bank of the Kobuk River about 150 miles east of Kotzebue. The original settlement was 10 miles further upstream at Kobuk. It lies at approximately 66.88806° North Latitude and -157.13639° West Longitude. (Sec. 09, T017N, R008E, Kateel River Meridian.) Shungnak is located in the Kotzebue Recording District. The area encompasses 8.4 sq. miles of land and 1.3 sq. miles of water. The community is located in the transitional climate zone. Temperatures average -10 to 15 during winter; 40 to 65 during summer. Temperature extremes have been recorded from -60 to 90. Snowfall averages 80 inches, with 16 inches of total precipitation per year. The Kobuk River is navigable from the end of May to mid-October.

History, Culture and Demographics
Founded in 1899 as a supply point for mining activities in the Cosmos Hills, this Inupiat Eskimo village was forced to move in the 1920s because of river erosion and flooding. The old site, 10 miles upstream, was renamed Kobuk by those who remained there. The new village was named "Kochuk," but later reverted to Shungnak. This name is derived from the Eskimo word "Issingnak," which means jade, a stone found extensively throughout the surrounding hills. The City government was incorporated in 1967.

A federally recognized tribe is located in the community -- the Native Village of Shungnak. 94.5% of the population are Alaska Native or part Native. It is a traditional Inupiat Eskimo village with a subsistence lifestyle. The sale or importation of alcohol is banned in the village. High School students from Kobuk attend school in Shungnak.

During the 2000 U.S. Census, there were 64 total housing units, and 8 were vacant. 1 of these vacant housing units are used only seasonally. 79 residents were employed. The unemployment rate at that time was 27.52%, although 52.12% of all adults were not in the work force. The median household income was $44,375, per capita income was $10,377, and 35.79% of residents were living below the poverty level.

Facilities, Utilities, Schools and Health Care
The water infiltration gallery was destroyed by ice several years ago, and needs replacement. A reservoir is intermittently filled from the Kobuk River -- a portable pump fills a 200,000-gallon steel storage tank through 1,110' of buried arctic pipe. Groundwater wells have proven unsuccessful. Piped water and sewer are provided to 53 homes (those at the top of the bluff,) the clinic, school and community building. Shungnak has a 6-inch buried gravity sewage main, which drains into a small diked lake one-half mile northwest of the City. The main, lift station and manholes need replacement. The effluent is chlorinated before discharge. A new landfill has recently been completed.

Electricity is provided by AVEC.

There is one school located in the community, attended by 75 students.

Local hospitals or health clinics include Shungnak Health Clinic.

Economy and Transportation
Shungnak subsists mainly on fishing, seasonal employment, hunting and trapping. Subsistence food sources include sheefish, whitefish, caribou, moose, ducks and berries. Most full-time employment is with the school district, City, Maniilaq Association, two stores and a lodge. Eight residents commute to the Red Dog Mine. BLM provides seasonal employment in fire fighting, hiring over 30 residents each year. Shungnak also has a strong arts and crafts industry; residents make and sell finely-crafted baskets, masks, mukluks, parkas, hats and mittens. The community wants to develop a visitor center, mini-mall, post office and clinic complex at Dahl Creek. Shungnak is accessible by plane, barge or small boat. The State-owned lighted gravel runway is 3,160', and has scheduled regional air services. Major airport improvements are under construction. Fuel and supplies are barged in each summer by Crowley Marine Services of Kotzebue. Small boats, ATVs, snowmachines and dog sleds are used for local travel and subsistence activities. Trails along the river are still used for inter-village travel.

Organizations with Local Offices
City - City of Shungnak, P.O. Box 59, Shungnak, AK 99773, Phone 907-437-2161, Fax 907-437-2176
Village Council - Native Village of Shungnak, P.O. Box 64, Shungnak, AK 99773, Phone 907-437-2163, Fax 907-437-2183