Copper River Census Area, AK

Copper River Census Area, AK

The Copper River Census Area is a census area located in the state of Alaska, United States. As of the 2020 census, the population was 2,718. The census area is part of the unorganized borough and therefore has no borough seat. Its largest community by far is Glennallen, followed by Copper Center and Tazlina.

Geography

The Copper River Census Area has a total area of 26,768 square miles, of which 24,291 square miles is land and 2,477 square miles is water. It is bordered by the Valdez-Cordova Census Area to the south, the Southeast Fairbanks Census Area to the north, and the Yukon-Koyukuk Census Area to the west.

Healthcare in Copper River Census Area

Healthcare services in the Copper River Census Area are primarily provided by the Cross Road Medical Center in Glennallen and the Copper River Native Association in Copper Center.

Cross Road Medical Center

The Cross Road Medical Center is a community health center that provides a wide range of healthcare services, including primary care, emergency care, dental care, behavioral health, and pharmacy services. The center is committed to providing high-quality, comprehensive healthcare services to all residents of the Copper River Census Area, regardless of their ability to pay.

Copper River Native Association

The Copper River Native Association provides a variety of healthcare services to the Native Alaskan population in the Copper River Census Area. These services include primary care, dental care, behavioral health, and substance abuse treatment. The association also operates a wellness center that offers fitness and nutrition programs.

Demographics

As of the 2020 census, the Copper River Census Area had a population of 2,718. The racial makeup of the census area was 66.7% White, 0.2% Black or African American, 27.1% Native American, 0.5% Asian, 0.1% Pacific Islander, and 5.4% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 2.2% of the population.

Economy

The economy of the Copper River Census Area is primarily based on natural resources, with major industries including fishing, hunting, and mining. Tourism also plays a significant role in the local economy, with visitors drawn to the area's stunning natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities.

Education

Education in the Copper River Census Area is provided by the Copper River School District, which operates several schools in the area, including Glennallen Elementary School, Glennallen Jr/Sr High School, and Kenny Lake School.