What mining means to Alaska

Mines and minerals exploration are making substantial contributions to Alaska’s economy and to the welfare of communities in the state.

Petroleum News reports that in 2011, mining provided 4,500 direct mining jobs and an additional 4,500 indirect jobs, spending a total of $620 million in direct and indirect payroll. The mining sector also paid some of Alaska’s highest wages, with annual averages of about $100,000.

Author Rose Ragsdale added that, “The impact of mining in Alaska goes beyond money spent and wages earned. Mines and mine projects make an important difference, especially in the many communities where they represent the only significant private-sector presence. Thus, the mining industry and its workers meet many of the civic and philanthropic needs of their communities.”

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