Author(s):
Kalb T Stevenson, PhD* - University of Alaska Anchorage
Lilian Alessa, PhD - University of Alaska Anchorage
Andy Kliskey, PhD - University of Alaska Anchorage
Heidi B. Rader, MS - University of Alaska Cooperative Extension / Tanana Chiefs Conference
Alberto Pantoja, PhD - Food and Agriculture Organization of the UN, RLC
Mark Clark, MS - USDA NRCS
Abstract:
Alaska is food insecure, importing approximately 95% of all agricultural products and commodities and maintaining only a three to five day supply of food for much of the year. Characteristics of sustainable agriculture throughout the circumpolar North are variable, but in Alaska it has been most strongly shaped by its relatively recent agrarian history, unique political and military influences, and federal and state government. Current initiatives for increased local agricultural production and sustainable development will be important for greater food security and resilience in Alaska's communities, as well as throughout the circumpolar North. Our work provides a foundation for discussions of challenges and limitations to agriculture in high-latitude regions, possibilities for sustainable solutions and the opportunity to address questions that will ultimately help Alaska and other circumpolar entities to reach levels of greater food security and resilience in a part of the world that is often assumed to be too inhospitable for growing.
