Natural Resource Economy

For much of Alaska's history, natural resources have primarily driven its economy. For millennia, Alaskan Natives earned their living by hunting, fishing, and foraging on Alaska's land and waters. It is estimated that about 70,000 people lived in Alaska before European discovery. These Alaskan Natives survived by harvesting natural resources for subsistence or trade. 

Today, Alaska's seafood industry, sport fishing, and hunting tourism are modern extensions of these subsistence activities. Fish and game also continue to be important in providing food for Alaskan families, especially in rural communities.