Hoonah–Angoon Census Area, Alaska

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Hoonah–Angoon Census Area, Alaska is a census area located in the U.S. state of Alaska. As of the 2020 United States Census, the population was estimated to be around 2,150. The census area includes a large part of southeast Alaska's panhandle, most notably the Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve, and is known for its remote and rugged terrain. The area encompasses several small communities, with Hoonah and Angoon being among the largest. These communities are deeply connected to the Tlingit people's culture and history, who have inhabited the region for thousands of years.

Geography

Hoonah–Angoon Census Area is characterized by its vast wilderness, including temperate rainforests, glaciers, and coastal islands. It is bordered by the Gulf of Alaska to the west, the City and Borough of Juneau to the north, and the Canadian province of British Columbia to the east. The area's geography makes it accessible primarily by boat or seaplane, contributing to its isolation and the preservation of its natural beauty.

Demographics

According to the 2020 Census, the Hoonah–Angoon Census Area has a diverse population, with a significant percentage of Native American (primarily Tlingit) residents. The area's population density is very low due to its vast size and the nature of its communities, which are spread out and often only accessible by water or air.

Economy

The economy of the Hoonah–Angoon Census Area is primarily based on fishing, tourism, and subsistence hunting. Fishing, especially commercial salmon fishing, plays a critical role in the local economy, providing both employment and sustenance for residents. Tourism is also a significant economic driver, with visitors drawn to the area's natural beauty, wildlife, and cultural heritage. Subsistence hunting and gathering remain vital for many residents, reflecting the area's strong ties to traditional ways of life.

Culture

The culture of the Hoonah–Angoon Census Area is deeply influenced by the Tlingit people, with their rich traditions, art, and spiritual beliefs playing a central role in community life. The area is known for its totem poles, ceremonial events, and traditional crafts, which are celebrated and preserved through various cultural centers and festivals.

Education

Education in the Hoonah–Angoon Census Area is provided by a few small schools, which serve the area's scattered communities. These schools face unique challenges related to their remote locations, including limited resources and difficulties in attracting and retaining qualified teachers. However, they are crucial centers for education and community life in the census area.

Transportation

Transportation in the Hoonah–Angoon Census Area is primarily by sea and air. The region's rugged terrain and lack of roads between communities mean that boats and seaplanes are essential for travel, transport of goods, and emergency services. The Alaska Marine Highway System provides ferry services that are vital for connecting the area's communities to each other and to the rest of Alaska.

Government

As a census area, Hoonah–Angoon does not have the same level of local government as a borough in Alaska. Instead, it is administered directly by the state. Local governance, where it exists, is provided by city governments in Hoonah and Angoon, as well as tribal organizations that play significant roles in the communities.