Subsistence Use Communities

Nonsubsistence communities in Alaska. Nonsubsistence refers to areas that are not dependent upon subsistence as an integral part of the community economy, culture, and way of life. "The Alaska subsistence law lists 12 socioeconomic characteristics that the Joint Board examines when it defines nonsubsistence areas:Social and economic structure of the areaEconomic stability in the areaEmployment information for the areaCash income information for the areaCosts of goods and services in the areaVariety of species used in the areaSeasonality of the economy in the areaHow many area residents participate in harvestHarvest levels by area residentsValues associated with harvestAreas of harvestExtent of sharing by area residents" (Alaska Department of Fish and Game, Nonsubsistence Use Areas in Alaska)