The Economic Benefits of Mining In Alaska

As seen on AlaskaMiners.org

Mining is a growing force in Alaska’s economy.

Mining is a growing force in Alaska’s economy, providing jobs for thousands of Alaskans and millions of dollars of personal income throughout Alaska. Alaska’s mining industry includes exploration, mine development, and mineral production. Alaska’s mines produce coal, gold, lead, silver, zinc, as well as construction materials, such as sand, gravel, and rock.

In 2018, Alaska’s mining industry provided:

  • 4,500 direct mining jobs in Alaska.

  • 9,200 total direct and indirect jobs attributed to the Alaska mining industry.

  • $715 million in total direct and indirect payroll.

  • $358 million in payments to Alaska Native corporations.

  • $149 million in state government-related revenues through rents, royalties, fees, and taxes.

  • Mostly year-round jobs for residents of more than 60 communities throughout Alaska, half of which are found in rural Alaska where few other jobs are available.

  • Some of Alaska’s highest paying jobs with an estimated average annual wage of $102,100 — over twice the state average for all sectors of the economy.

  • $34 million in local government revenue through property taxes and payments in lieu of taxes.

Each year AMA commissions the McDowell Group to research the economic impact of Mining in Alaska. Continued investments by the mining industry ensure Alaska’s continued economic growth.

Click here to read the current (2018) Economic Impact Report for Mining in Alaska