Denali Commission
Overview
What is your agency’s mission and how does supporting research in the Arctic advance that mission?
The Denali Commission is an independent federal agency focusing on the development of basic infrastructure, economic development, and workforce training needs for rural Alaska in collaboration with federal, state, local, Tribal, and private partners. The Commission supports Arctic research, development, and monitoring to better understand ways to develop infrastructure to meet the needs of people and the environment.
Where would one go to find out what research is being funded by your agency?
The Denali Commission database houses all projects funded in the last 20+ years. While “research” is not specifically a program area, there have been many research and development-type projects in the last 10 years.
Where would one go to read about scientific research results from your agency?
Program area overviews are located on our website and have links to key publications.
In terms of budget, approximately how big is your agency’s investment in Arctic research?
While not a specific program area, over the last 10 years the Commission has invested approximately $3.6M in projects that advanced research and development in areas such as flood, erosion, and permafrost thaw; dust control; utility management; kelp processing; drinking water; and infectious diseases.
What are your agency’s funding priorities over the next two years?
The Commission’s priorities are illustrated in the annual work plan and five-year Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) work plan.
How does your agency coordinate and collaborate with other agencies to advance your mission in the Arctic?
The Commission actively participates in implementation of the 2022-2026 Arctic Research Plan, partners with the state of Alaska, and works with local communities either directly or through cooperation with the Center for Environmentally Threatened Communities. Partnerships and collaborations with Center for Disease Control, Indian Health Service, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Housing and Urban Development, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium, and others greatly assist in carrying out the Commission’s goals in Alaska.
Activities in Alaska
Does your agency have office(s) in Alaska?
The Commission’s office is headquartered in Anchorage, Alaska.
Where can one go to learn more about your agency’s presence in Alaska?
Please reach out to Director of Programs, individual program managers, or visit our website.