Matanuska-Susitna Borough

The Matanuska-Susitna Borough is a large administrative area north of Anchorage containing mountains, river valleys, and open farmland. The landscape shifts between forested zones, rivers, and clearings that support agriculture and small communities.

The region transformed in 1935 when a federal colonization project brought farming families to develop agriculture in the area. This shift turned it from a sparsely settled territory into a growing regional center.

The Dena'ina and Ahtna peoples built communities along river valleys and established trade networks across the region. Their descendants continue to live here and influence the local way of life.

The area sits north of Anchorage and is accessible to visitors who allow time for travel between spread-out communities. Public facilities including libraries and parks are scattered throughout the borough.

The area functions as one of Alaska's primary farming zones, taking advantage of summer seasons with extended daylight hours for crop production. This far-north agriculture follows rhythms unlike farming in other regions.

Location: Alaska

Inception: 1964

Capital city: Palmer

Part of: organized borough

Shares border with: Denali Borough, Southeast Fairbanks Census Area, Copper River Census Area, Anchorage, Kenai Peninsula Borough, Bethel Census Area, Yukon-Koyukuk Census Area, Chugach Census Area

Address: 350 E. Dahlia Ave., Palmer, AK 99645

Phone: +19078617801

Website: http://matsugov.us

GPS coordinates: 62.40000,-149.58000

Latest update: December 6, 2025 22:07