Background

GIS Data for Northwest Arctic Borough

The Subsistence Mapping Program webpage for Northwest Arctic Borough, Alaska, provides access to GIS datasets and maps that illustrate traditional subsistence activities and important ecological areas relevant to local communities. The project integrates local traditional knowledge with scientific information to document where residents hunt, fish, and gather resources, as well as the seasonal patterns of wildlife. Key content includes heat maps that represent subsistence use intensity, as well as detailed maps that support land use planning and inform federal policies, particularly regarding resource development and environmental protection. This initiative aims to preserve cultural practices while ensuring sustainable management of natural resources.