Our Lands

The story of our lands is the story of the Iñupiat. Over time our lands have always sustained and affirmed the health and well-being of our people. If you’re looking for a Land Use Permit, searching for Available Properties,  or interested in learning more about the modern history this section of our website is for you.

ANCSA

The Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (ANCSA) was signed into law on December 18, 1971. ANCSA’s intent was to settle all aboriginal land claims by Alaska’s indigenous peoples. Its precursor was the discovery of oil reserves on Alaska’s North Slope. Without settling land claims, the Alyeska Trans-Alaska Pipeline could not be built. Under ANCSA, Alaska’s aboriginal land was divided into 12 land based regional corporations and one for other Alaska Natives residing in the lower 48 (13th region). In addition to regional corporations based on tribal and geographical affiliation there were also village corporations. In the Arctic Slope region, eight village corporations were established.