Petersburg Borough, located in the southeastern part of the state of Alaska, is a remote and picturesque region known for its stunning coastal scenery, abundant wildlife, and rich cultural heritage. Nestled within the Tongass National Forest and surrounded by the waters of the Inside Passage, Petersburg Borough offers a unique blend of natural beauty and rugged wilderness.
Location and Boundaries Petersburg Borough is situated on the northern end of Mitkof Island, one of the many islands that dot the Alexander Archipelago in southeastern Alaska. The borough encompasses the town of Petersburg and its surrounding areas, including the nearby mainland and numerous smaller islands. The borough’s boundaries extend from the shores of Frederick Sound to the east and the Wrangell Narrows to the west. Check Payhelpcenter.com to learn more.
Topography The topography of Petersburg Borough is characterized by its rugged coastline, forested hillsides, and numerous fjords and bays. The region lies within the temperate rainforest biome, with dense stands of Sitka spruce, western hemlock, and red cedar covering much of the landscape. Elevations in the borough vary widely, with some peaks reaching heights of over 3,000 feet above sea level.
Climate Petersburg Borough experiences a maritime climate, with relatively mild temperatures and high levels of precipitation throughout the year. Winters are typically cool and wet, with temperatures averaging around freezing, while summers are mild and damp, with highs averaging in the 60s°F (15-20°C). The area receives significant rainfall, particularly during the fall and winter months when storms sweep in off the Pacific Ocean.
Population As of the 2020 United States Census, Petersburg Borough had a population of approximately 3,200 people, making it one of the smaller boroughs in Alaska. The majority of residents live in the town of Petersburg, which serves as the borough seat and primary hub for commerce and services. The population is primarily of Scandinavian descent, reflecting the town’s history as a Norwegian fishing community.
Natural Resources Petersburg Borough is endowed with abundant natural resources, including its forests, fisheries, and wildlife. The region’s forests are part of the Tongass National Forest, the largest national forest in the United States, and provide habitat for a variety of wildlife species, including black bears, Sitka black-tailed deer, and bald eagles. Commercial logging is also an important industry in the area, with timber harvested for lumber and pulp.
The waters surrounding Petersburg Borough are teeming with marine life, including salmon, halibut, crab, and shrimp. Commercial fishing is the primary economic driver in the region, with salmon canneries and seafood processing plants lining the waterfront in Petersburg. The borough’s fishing fleet operates in the waters of the Inside Passage and beyond, contributing to the local economy and providing employment for many residents.
Rivers and Lakes Petersburg Borough is intersected by several rivers and streams, which originate in the mountains and flow down to the sea. These waterways provide habitat for fish and wildlife and offer opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and rafting. The most significant river in the borough is the Stikine River, which originates in British Columbia and flows through southeastern Alaska before emptying into the Pacific Ocean near Petersburg.
While the borough does not have any significant natural lakes, there are numerous small ponds and tarns scattered throughout the region. These water bodies provide habitat for waterfowl and other wildlife and offer recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike.
Land Use Land use in Petersburg Borough is primarily focused on fishing, forestry, and tourism. The town of Petersburg serves as the commercial and administrative center for the borough, with shops, restaurants, and services catering to residents and visitors alike. Commercial fishing is the backbone of the local economy, with fish processing plants and canneries providing employment for many residents.
In addition to fishing, forestry is another important industry in Petersburg Borough, with timber harvested from the Tongass National Forest for lumber and pulp. Logging operations are carefully managed to ensure the sustainability of the forest ecosystem and minimize impacts on wildlife habitat and water quality.
Tourism is also a growing industry in Petersburg Borough, with visitors drawn to the region’s stunning scenery, abundant wildlife, and rich cultural heritage. Outdoor recreational activities such as fishing, hiking, kayaking, and wildlife viewing are popular, particularly during the summer months when the weather is mild and the days are long.
Conservation and Environmental Protection Petersburg Borough places a strong emphasis on conservation and environmental protection to preserve its natural resources and scenic landscapes for future generations. The borough government works closely with state and federal agencies, tribal organizations, and nonprofit groups to manage and protect the region’s forests, rivers, and marine habitats.
Efforts are underway to address environmental challenges such as habitat loss, pollution, and climate change. The borough is working to develop sustainable fisheries management practices, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and protect sensitive habitats from development and disturbance.
Conclusion Petersburg Borough, Alaska, is a region of stunning natural beauty, abundant wildlife, and rich cultural heritage. From its rugged coastline to its towering mountains, the borough offers a unique blend of wilderness adventure and small-town charm. By stewarding its natural resources responsibly and promoting sustainable development, Petersburg Borough strives to maintain its unique character and ensure a bright future for generations to come.