Mining directly employed 5,900 Alaskans in 2023, with an average annual wage of $122,568—nearly twice the state’s private-sector average. People who work in mining live in 90+ communities across Alaska, from large cities to rural villages. Beyond direct employment, mining has a multiplier effect, creating thousands of additional jobs through business partnerships, supplier networks, and employee spending on everything from homes and property taxes to groceries and gas.

The direct impact of mining in Alaska resulted in 5,900 jobs and $695 million in wages. However, the total economic impact is much broader, with an additional 5,900 jobs supported indirectly. This brings the total to 11,800 jobs and $1.1 billion in wages across the state.

Mining isn’t just an industry—it’s a source of career opportunities that sustain families and strengthen Alaska’s workforce. The benefits of mining extend to individuals and communities across the state. Mining is good for Alaska.

Alaska’s economy runs on mining. Mining is a long-term investment in Alaska’s future as it grows local businesses, creates good-paying jobs, and supports public services. When resources are developed responsibly, it creates a steady future and real opportunities for the people who call Alaska home.

By developing Alaska’s resources responsibly, the benefits of mining ensures a future of economic opportunity, self-sufficiency, and shared prosperity.

‍Get an overview or read the full report detailing the economic benefits of mining in Alaska, and learn where in Alaska metals are mined.

Alaska’s mining industry operates under some of the strictest environmental regulations in the world. Modern mining companies invest in advanced water treatment systems, tailings management, and habitat restoration to minimize environmental impact. Despite outdated perceptions, sustainability is a priority, and companies actively work to restore land to a stable state once mining operations conclude.

Mining companies employ environmental scientists and collaborated with state and federal agencies to protect water quality, fish habitats, and wildlife corridors. They also use state-of-the-art monitoring systems to track air and water quality in real time, ensuring compliance with strict environmental standards. Responsible resource development in Alaska not only supports local communities but also preserves the state’s natural beauty for future generations.

Mining in Alaska is strictly regulated at both the state and federal levels. The Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation, the Alaska Department of Natural Resources, and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency oversee mining activities, ensuring companies meet environmental and safety standards.

Before operations begin, companies must secure permits for land use, air quality, and water management. The National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) requires thorough environmental studies before projects move forward. The Clean Water Act regulates water discharge to protect rivers and ecosystems, while the Alaska Department of Natural Resources ensures companies restore land after mining.

These regulations promote responsible mining that protects the environment, supports local communities, and strengthens Alaska’s economy.

Alaska’s mining companies work closely with Indigenous communities and wildlife experts to ensure their operations respect traditional lands and protect important habitats. They collaborate with Alaska Native corporations and tribal groups, incorporating traditional knowledge into land-use decisions and safeguarding cultural heritage sites.

To minimize impacts on wildlife, companies take steps to preserve habitats, maintain migration routes, and use advanced technologies to reduce disruptions. Biologists and local communities help shape project designs, ensuring protections for caribou herds, salmon populations, and other key species. Many mining operations also invest in conservation efforts, reinforcing their commitment to preserving Alaska’s natural environment for future generations.

Mining plays a vital role in Alaska’s economy, providing well-paying jobs that often exceed the state average salary. The industry supports a wide variety of careers  from geologists, environmental scientists, and equipment operators to accountants, drivers, and office workers, offering steady employment across the state.

Beyond direct employment, mining boosts local businesses by creating demand for supplies, services, and equipment, keeping revenue within Alaska. Millions in tax dollars from the industry help fund roads, schools, and emergency services. In many remote areas, mining is one of the only reliable sources of income, sustaining entire communities. As demand for minerals grows for everything from medical devices to smartphones, Alaska’s mining sector remains a critical economic driver both locally and nationally.

Mining in Alaska requires extensive training, careful planning, and the right gear to handle harsh conditions. Workers rely on heavy-duty cold-weather clothing, heated shelters, and adjusted work schedules to stay safe in subzero temperatures. Transportation plans are mapped out year-round to ensure safe access to remote sites.

Specialized equipment built for Arctic conditions keeps operations running. Heated fuel lines prevent engines from freezing, climate-controlled cabins allow operators to work efficiently, and reinforced hydraulics withstand extreme cold. Avalanche forecasting, emergency response plans, and constant monitoring of conditions help ensure safety. Alaska’s miners are tough, skilled professionals who know how to work with the environment to keep the state’s mineral supply moving, no matter the weather.

Alaska is home to some of the most productive mining operations in the United States. The Red Dog Mine stands as one of the world’s largest zinc producers, while Fort Knox Mine near Fairbanks plays a key role in Alaska’s gold production. The Pogo Mine, known for its high-grade gold, continues to expand output each year.

For silver, Greens Creek Mine is the largest producer in the U.S. while the Kensington Gold Mine remains a vital producer. 2024 saw the opening of Alaska’s newest large gold mine, Manh Choh, near Tetlin. These operations not only supply essential minerals but also adhere to strict environmental and safety standards. With ongoing exploration projects poised to add even more value, Alaska’s mining industry remains a powerful economic driver.

Alaska stands out in the mining industry with vast mineral deposits, expansive land, and a regulatory framework that balances economic growth with environmental protection. Unlike states with fewer natural resources, Alaska holds some of the largest untapped mineral reserves in the country, making it one of the most promising locations for mining.

While states like Nevada and Arizona are well-known for gold and copper production, Alaska offers a broader range of critical minerals essential for modern technology and infrastructure. The state has also taken a proactive approach to responsible resource development—working closely with Indigenous communities, prioritizing sustainability, and maintaining operations in some of the world’s toughest conditions.