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UAA Institute of Social and Economic Research

@iser-alaska.bsky.social
37 followers 19 following 117 posts

ISER, a research center of the University of Alaska Anchorage, has been at the forefront of public policy research in Alaska since 1961.

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UAA Institute of Social and Economic Research @iser-alaska.bsky.social · 12h
Tight Cook Inlet natural gas supplies and tensions overseas mean Railbelt residents may need to conserve resources this winter. Dr. Spencer Perry spoke with @alaskasnewssource.com about the double-edged nature of high energy prices for Alaska. Read & watch: www.alaskasnewssource.com/2026/09/25/t...
alaskasnewssource.com
‘There’s nothing for tomorrow’: Cook Inlet gas crunch, global markets squeeze Alaska Railbelt grid
With winter fast approaching, state energy officials and economists are warning Alaskans along the Railbelt to prepare for potential power and heating conservation if severe, sustained cold settles ov...
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UAA Institute of Social and Economic Research @iser-alaska.bsky.social · 29/09/2026
THIS WEEK 📅 The 2026 CBPP Showcase: Democracy in Action takes place on Thursday, October 1. Now in its fifth year, the showcase gathers alumni, students, faculty, staff, business leaders, and community members for sessions that explore issues shaping Alaska's future. 💡
givecampus.com
UAA CBPP Showcase 2026
Celebrate democracy, leadership, and community at CBPP Showcase 2026 on Oct. 1.
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UAA Institute of Social and Economic Research @iser-alaska.bsky.social · 26/09/2026
🐟 Bycatch has become a defining issue in Alaska's Senate race. @brettjwatson.bsky.social, associate professor of applied and natural resource economics, doesn't recall fisheries playing such a central role in a statewide or federal campaign in the past decade.
alaskabeacon.com
Pitched battle for Alaska’s Senate seat is enveloped in a fight over fish | Alaska Beacon
Republican incumbent Dan Sullivan and Democrat Mary Peltola are fighting bitterly over fisheries, especially the hot-button issue of bycatch.
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UAA Institute of Social and Economic Research @iser-alaska.bsky.social · 16/09/2026
⛽ISER's research helps policymakers and community members alike navigate the double-edged nature of high oil prices in Alaska. ISER Director Ian Hartman weighed in on what rising prices at the pump could mean for Alaskans and the state moving forward: www.alaskasnewssource.com/2026/09/16/i...
alaskasnewssource.com
‘I just don’t drive anywhere’: As fuel prices climb, Alaskans adjust
Average gas prices in the state of Alaska reached $5.06 Tuesday, nearly twenty cents higher than last month and seventy cents above the national average.
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UAA Institute of Social and Economic Research @iser-alaska.bsky.social · 14/09/2026
Despite rising oil prices, Alaskans still face ongoing budget challenges and big decisions that will shape the state's future. ISER's @brettjwatson.bsky.social recently presented an analysis of Alaska's fiscal options to the Anchorage Downtown Rotary Club. 📸 Courtesy of Treece Hanley
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UAA Institute of Social and Economic Research @iser-alaska.bsky.social · 04/09/2026
🥦 Since Anchorage School District began rolling out its new school lunch model, elementary students have been eating 31% more of their entrées and 29% more vegetables, according to data collected by a team based at @universityofalaska.bsky.social's ISER & CBHRS.
A researcher weighs a partially consumed milk carton and inputs data into laptop. A school lunch tray with corn and a banana peel is in the foreground.
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UAA Institute of Social and Economic Research @iser-alaska.bsky.social · 20/08/2026
What does Indigenous education look like in Arctic communities around the world? This question was at the center of a session at the 2026 @uarctic.bsky.social Congress that focused on schooling in the North. 📖🧵
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UAA Institute of Social and Economic Research @iser-alaska.bsky.social · 13/08/2026
Bob Loeffler will describe a framework for thinking about critical minerals mining and processing in the Arctic. Be sure to check our Facebok page for more info:https://www.facebook.com/iseralaska/
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UAA Institute of Social and Economic Research @iser-alaska.bsky.social · 07/08/2026
Are you familiar with the wildfire mitigation strategies in your city? In Anchorage, certain techniques known as fuel treatments have helped reduce fire risk.🔥
A wildfire burns near a team of firefighters and vehicles. Text on image: University of Alaska Anchorage Institute of Social and Economic Research
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UAA Institute of Social and Economic Research @iser-alaska.bsky.social · 16/07/2026
What did you do on your summer vacation? ISER Director Diane Hirshberg traveled north of the Arctic Circle in #Norway, where she helped teach a sustainability summer course at Nord University.
A woman in glasses, red jacket, blue winter hat stands in front of a background of ocean and green hills
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UAA Institute of Social and Economic Research @iser-alaska.bsky.social · 14/07/2026
Gas prices are likely on the rise. Assistant Professor @brettjwatson.bsky.social spoke to @alaskasnewssource.com about the recent military blockade, and how a shifting Strait of Hormuz conflict might affect Alaskans at the gas station. 📺Read and watch: www.alaskasnewssource.com/2026/07/13/p...
alaskasnewssource.com
The president is reinstating a blockade in the Strait of Hormuz. What does that mean for Alaska?
Middle East uncertainty poses ‘apocalyptic’ risks for rural communities, boosts LNG pipeline prospects.
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UAA Institute of Social and Economic Research @iser-alaska.bsky.social · 30/06/2026
What would a 3% sales tax achieve in #Anchorage? And how would it affect different communities in the city? A new ISER report digs into the data, detailing the costs and benefits of a sales tax proposed by the mayor last year. Learn more on ISER’s website: iseralaska.org/2026/06/repo...
A bar graph overlaying a photo of downtown Anchorage. Text on image: Anchorage Municipal Sales Tax 2026 Report, UAA Institute of Social and Economic Research
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UAA Institute of Social and Economic Research @iser-alaska.bsky.social · 24/06/2026
Hi from Tórshavn 👋. Several ISER members joined last month's @uarctic.bsky.social UArctic Congress in the Faroe Islands. The biennial meeting assembles researchers and institutional leaders from across the Arctic Circle to collaborate on shared goals for the region.
A red building and flag of Faroe Islands on a rocky coastline. Text on image: UAA Institute of Social and Economic Research
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UAA Institute of Social and Economic Research @iser-alaska.bsky.social · 29/05/2026
The school year just ended. Why do teachers choose to stay at or leave Alaska schools? Find out on Wednesday.
A yellow school bus against a blue sky
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UAA Institute of Social and Economic Research @iser-alaska.bsky.social · 27/05/2026
ISER has provided non-partisan policy research for Alaska since 1961. For 65 years, our center's multidisciplinary staff have investigated public policy issues facing Alaska, from education to health to Arctic communities and natural resources.
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UAA Institute of Social and Economic Research @iser-alaska.bsky.social · 21/05/2026
That’s a wrap! Thanks to everyone who participated in the 2026 CUPSO conference this week. It was a treat to share Anchorage and the UAA campus (and its wandering moose) with our community of university public service organizations. Safe travels and see you all next year! 🫎
A large group of people smiling for a photo. Text on image: 2026 CUPSO, Public Service on the Frontier
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UAA Institute of Social and Economic Research @iser-alaska.bsky.social · 18/05/2026
Thank you to the Anchorage Assembly for recognizing ISER's 65th Anniversary with an official resolution We're honored for the recognition and proud of the work we continue to provide for the Municipality of Anchorage and to all of Alaska.
An official certificate from the Mayor’s Office ,framed and resting on a bench outside a campus building
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UAA Institute of Social and Economic Research @iser-alaska.bsky.social · 13/05/2026
Today’s "Talk of Alaska" was all about ISER. Hear how economics research affects everyone in Alaska on the hour-long episode from @alaskapublic.org
A photo of Rasmuson Hall and flowers. Text on image: On Air with ISER
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UAA Institute of Social and Economic Research @iser-alaska.bsky.social · 06/05/2026
The countdown is on: We're excited to welcome our community to Anchorage for the 2026 Consortium of University Public Service Organizations (CUPSO) Conference! 🐏 This annual event gathers public service researchers from across the U.S. to share successes and shape future research. See you in AK!
A banner image with a mountain goat and green mountains advertising the 2026 CUPSO Conference, Public Service on the Frontier, May 18-20 in Anchorage, Alaska
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UAA Institute of Social and Economic Research @iser-alaska.bsky.social · 04/05/2026
In Fairbanks, 1 in 4 structures is at high or very high risk of burning in a wildfire, according to new ISER research.
A wildfire burns an Alaska forest. Text on image: UAA Institute of Social and Economic Research
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UAA Institute of Social and Economic Research @iser-alaska.bsky.social · 16/04/2026
🐟New ISER Report🐟 Every fishing town has good years and bad years. But how does public opinion match actual economic output?
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UAA Institute of Social and Economic Research @iser-alaska.bsky.social · 25/03/2026
ISER Director Diane Hirshberg and a team of ISER researchers presented on "65 Years of ISER" to a 'Lunch & Learn' in Juneau on Tuesday, March 24. Watch a recording of the Lunch & Learn online at: www.akleg.gov/basis/Meetin...
Event photo
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UAA Institute of Social and Economic Research @iser-alaska.bsky.social · 18/03/2026
Alaska's food security is a major concern for the state, learn more about the different ways Alaska is working to overcome this challenge: www.usatoday.com/story/studio...
Alaskan farmland
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UAA Institute of Social and Economic Research @iser-alaska.bsky.social · 11/03/2026
Critical minerals are in the Arctic spotlight. Learn all about Alaska’s mineral potential in a new study from ISER researchers, who discuss the past, present, and future of the industry in their comprehensive report: scholarworks.alaska.edu/handle/11122...
A coal loading facility at the harbor in Seward. Text on image: UAA Institute of Social and Economic Research
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UAA Institute of Social and Economic Research @iser-alaska.bsky.social · 11/03/2026
🎒 Educators, share your perspective! Our research staff are examining factors that shape teacher retention in Alaska. Check your email and take our statewide survey by March 31. The survey results will inform policies that strengthen educator retention across Alaska.
A map of Alaska filled with speech bubbles. Text on image: Alaska Statewide Educator Exit and Stay Survey. Help shape the future of education in Alaska. UAA Institute of Social and Economic Research and Alaska Department of Education and Early Development
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UAA Institute of Social and Economic Research @iser-alaska.bsky.social · 05/03/2026
In 2024, ISER researchers interviewed employers of Alaska’s electricians, truck drivers, carpenters, and more, all part of a study on construction careers in the state. 🚧The report is now available online: scholarworks.alaska.edu/handle/11122...
A man drives a road grader in Kotzebue. Photo credit: AKDOTP&F
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UAA Institute of Social and Economic Research @iser-alaska.bsky.social · 02/03/2026
What’s a critical mineral? And what are the factors that make an area viable for mining? Learn all about the industry in a new ISER report covering Alaska’s mineral challenges and opportunities, now available online: scholarworks.alaska.edu/handle/11122...
A coal-loading dock at the port in Seward. Text on image: UAA Institute of Social and Economic Research
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UAA Institute of Social and Economic Research @iser-alaska.bsky.social · 13/02/2026
Calling all educators: we’re currently running a statewide educator survey! ISER's Center for Alaska Education Policy Research sent a survey this month asking educators about their schools, communities, and future plans. Results will inform workforce decisions and boost retention across #Alaska.
A map of Alaska filled with speech bubbles. Text on image: Alaska Statewide Educator Exit and Stay Survey, help shape the future of education in Alaska.
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UAA Institute of Social and Economic Research @iser-alaska.bsky.social · 12/02/2026
After nearly five years at the helm, ISER Director Diane Hirshberg will step down in June and continue as a professor of education policy at ISER and in the UAA College of Business and Public Policy. Read the full announcement: iseralaska.org/2026/02/iser...
A woman in a sweater stands in the snow overlooking Anchorage. Text on image: UAA Institute of Social and Economic Research
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UAA Institute of Social and Economic Research @iser-alaska.bsky.social · 11/02/2026
NOW HIRING: ISER is seeking its next director. For 65 years, ISER has provided high-quality policy-oriented research for Alaskans. Lead our next chapter as we continue informing policy and development in the North. Apply by March 1. Full job description: careers.alaska.edu/jobs/iser-di...
An academic building behind a row of yellow wildflowers. Text on image: UAA Institute of Social and Economic Research
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UAA Institute of Social and Economic Research @iser-alaska.bsky.social · 11/02/2026
Data archived for public use on wildfire hazards and risk from 1984-2054 by Dr. Jennifer Schmidt’s team was recently highlighted by the National Science Foundation (NSF). Meet Dr. Schmidt in this write-up from the NSF Arctic Data Center, which supported the project: arcticdata.io/all/news/202...
A woman in sunglasses and a camouflage jacket holds a pole outfitted with monitoring equipment.
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UAA Institute of Social and Economic Research @iser-alaska.bsky.social · 05/02/2026
How would a seasonal sales tax affect Alaska jobs? How does a smaller PFD impact Alaskans’ income? ISER economists modeled the outcomes of 11 different budget decisions facing lawmakers in Juneau. Watch our webinar to learn more: alaska.zoom.us/rec/share/d-...
A line graph titled Household Income Cut. Six lines indicate different scenarios. The Y axis measures average losses in per-person income. The X axis measures per capita income decile. The lines show that a progressive income tax would significantly affect high-income Alaskans and not low-income Alaskans. A flat income tax would also affect high-income Alaskans more than low-income Alaskans. A reduction in the PFD affects all Alaskan income brackets equally. The other lines measure a 3% sales tax, a 4% sales tax, and a property tax.
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UAA Institute of Social and Economic Research @iser-alaska.bsky.social · 04/02/2026
🔊Tune in to Talk of Alaska *tonight* at 8 p.m. to hear legislators discuss Alaska's fiscal future, referencing recent research from ISER. (Or listen now online: alaskapublic.org/programs/tal...)
alaskapublic.org
The 34th Legislature’s 2nd session | Talk of Alaska
New taxes, changes to the Permanent Fund Dividend formula, energy development and public safety were all part of Governor Dunleavy’s final address to the legislature. What do lawmakers think of these ...
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UAA Institute of Social and Economic Research @iser-alaska.bsky.social · 03/02/2026
Reminder 📌Join our Wednesday webinar to hear ISER economists break down their recent report from Juneau. Register at: alaska.zoom.us/webinar/regi...
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UAA Institute of Social and Economic Research @iser-alaska.bsky.social · 02/02/2026
AC is now flying produce direct to three western hubs. ISER food economist Mike Jones discussed the shortened supply chain with KDLG in Dillingham. By skipping barges and avoiding Anchorage, the new effort can limit food and financial waste in rural Alaska.🍓🥝🍊 🎧Listen in:
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UAA Institute of Social and Economic Research @iser-alaska.bsky.social · 30/01/2026
Read about our “eagerly anticipated” presentation yesterday in Juneau, where ISER outlined Alaska’s budget options for a crowded room of policymakers.
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UAA Institute of Social and Economic Research @iser-alaska.bsky.social · 30/01/2026
✈️ISER is on the road in Juneau. Our faculty met with policymakers yesterday to discuss Alaska’s fiscal options, and the implications of potential budget decisions. Thanks to everyone who came to our presentation. We look forward to meeting with policymakers throughout the legislative session.
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UAA Institute of Social and Economic Research @iser-alaska.bsky.social · 29/01/2026
We’re hosting a webinar on Alaska’s fiscal future. ISER evaluated 11 budget options to determine effects on Alaska’s job, incomes, and more. 📌Join our webinar on Weds. Feb, 4 at 4 p.m. as ISER researchers break down the policy options facing lawmakers. Register: alaska.zoom.us/webinar/regi...
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UAA Institute of Social and Economic Research @iser-alaska.bsky.social · 27/01/2026
The Alaska Energy Data Gateway, an online data resource for energy and community data, was recently relaunched after a complete overhaul by ISER and the Alaska Center for Energy and Power (ACEP) at @uafairbanks.bsky.social 🔌Explore your community’s energy use at: akenergygateway.alaska.edu
akenergygateway.alaska.edu
AEDG - Alaska Energy Data Gateway
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UAA Institute of Social and Economic Research @iser-alaska.bsky.social · 23/01/2026
We’re excited to launch the redesigned Alaska Energy Data Gateway, alongside Alaska Center for Energy and Power. The easy-to-use tool provides quick access to #energy and socioeconomic data for every town in #Alaska. Explore your community’s rates and usage at: akenergygateway.alaska.edu
Wind turbines stand on a hill overlooking the city of Kodiak Alaska
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UAA Institute of Social and Economic Research @iser-alaska.bsky.social · 21/01/2026
ISER has been a go-to resource for Alaska policymakers since 1961. For the latest example, check out our newest policy brief on the ramifications of retirement plans for Alaska educators.
A playground in front of a school building in Kotzebue. Logo on image: UAA Institute of Social and Economic Research
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UAA Institute of Social and Economic Research @iser-alaska.bsky.social · 20/01/2026
Barbershops offer far more than a haircut. They also play a role in men’s health, especially for Black men often missed by public health messaging.
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UAA Institute of Social and Economic Research @iser-alaska.bsky.social · 16/01/2026
With #Greenland in the spotlight, ISER Director Diane Hirshberg talked to @alaskasnewssource.com about the geopolitical picture in the North, the importance of #Alaska, and the economic opportunities for Alaska's resource industry. 📺 Watch now: www.alaskasnewssource.com/2026/01/14/a...
alaskasnewssource.com
Alaska’s strategic importance highlighted amid rising global tensions
As geopolitical tensions escalate on the world stage, Alaska finds itself at the center of a critical conversation about U.S. security and economic strategy.
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UAA Institute of Social and Economic Research @iser-alaska.bsky.social · 12/01/2026
In #Greenland, it's a risky misconception that “rare minerals” are especially rare. Read more from ISER professor Bob Loeffler, who spoke to TIME magazine about American ambitions in #Greenland and the economic feasibility of mining on the island: time.com/7344877/trum...
time.com
Why Is Trump So Intent on Acquiring Greenland?
President Donald Trump has for years had his eyes set on the island, which he has repeatedly threatened to annex. Why?
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UAA Institute of Social and Economic Research @iser-alaska.bsky.social · 08/01/2026
🔥New research🔥 ISER’s Jennifer Schmidt joined a collaborative project to innovate fire breaks in the North. The team proposed four scenarios that safeguard communities from wildfire risk without sacrificing economic and cultural benefits of the land.
sciencedirect.com
Mitigating increasing wildfire risk through fuel break innovations
A warming climate and expanding wildland urban interface are escalating wildfire risk to human life and property in the boreal forests of western Nort…
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UAA Institute of Social and Economic Research @iser-alaska.bsky.social · 06/01/2026
As Alaska’s legislators prepare to convene in Juneau, ISER is ready to provide policymakers with the economics of education.
Children's coats and backpacks hang on a wall of coat hooks at a school
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UAA Institute of Social and Economic Research @iser-alaska.bsky.social · 24/12/2025
It’s been an excellent year at ISER, and 2026 will be even bigger. ✨ We’re celebrating our 65th anniversary as a research center at @universityofalaska.bsky.social. We have lots of new research about #Alaska policy issues coming out shortly. AND we're hosting the 2026 #CUPSO conference.
A snow-covered University of Alaska Anchorage sign next to a snowy tree with green and gold lights
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UAA Institute of Social and Economic Research @iser-alaska.bsky.social · 23/12/2025
Alaska Airlines Cargo briefly embargoed its freight shipments last week, causing disruptions during the industry's peak holiday season. Nome public radio station KNOM talked to ISER economist Mike Jones about what that means and why it matters for rural Alaska. Listen in: knom.org/2025/12/18/m...
knom.org
Maintenance delays Alaska Air Cargo operations, Christmas packages - KNOM Radio Mission
Christmas presents may be arriving later than expected for many rural communities in Alaska. That's after Alaska Air Cargo, Alaska Airlines' cargo-specific carrier, placed an embargo on freight shipme...
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UAA Institute of Social and Economic Research @iser-alaska.bsky.social · 19/12/2025
Holiday dinners have very different price tags across Alaska. For example, ISER food systems economist Mike Jones recently found the standard holiday dinner costs 130% more in Nome than in Anchorage. 🎧 Listen in as Jones chats with @alaskapublic.org about food security in rural Alaska:
alaskapublic.org
Alaska's holiday price divide: One meal, two very different costs
Using a menu from the American Farm Bureau, economist Mike Jones found the difference was about $100.
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UAA Institute of Social and Economic Research @iser-alaska.bsky.social · 16/12/2025
When ConocoPhillips announced layoffs, @alaskasnewssource.com turned to ISER. Listen in as professor Brett Watson explains the economic trends and developing technologies that shape industry on the North Slope: www.alaskasnewssource.com/2025/12/10/c...
alaskasnewssource.com
ConocoPhillips confirms up to 12.5% North Slope layoffs as workers seek union
ConocoPhillips has laid off 10 to 12.5 percent of its North Slope workforce, the company confirmed Tuesday
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