Alaska Village Electric Cooperative

Russian Mission Facts

Community Profile

• Current Population: 329             
• # of Consumers: 92
• Incorporation Type: 2nd Class City
• Total Generating Capacity (kw): 541

Community Facilities

• Water is derived from a deep well, is treated and distributed via buried pipes throughout the community. Most homes are also connected to the piped sewage system, including 25 new HUD homes. The City has requested funds to replace the plumbing and fixtures in 15 homes. Refuse is disposed of by individuals at the landfill; a new site is needed. Electricity is provided by AVEC.
• Gravel airstrip and seaplane landing area
• Barge service
• One school
• Local health clinic
• Sub-Regional Clinic in Aniak 
• Emergency Services have river, floatplane and air access. 

Economy

Employment opportunities are limited to the school, local businesses and fishing. Eleven residents hold commercial fishing permits. Seasonal employment includes BLM firefighting and construction. Some income is earned from trapping, and subsistence activities are prevalent. Salmon, moose, black bear, porcupine, rabbit and waterfowl are utilized. Passengers, mail and light goods arrive primarily by air.

Culture and Activities

A federally-recognized tribe is located in the community -- the Iqurmiut Tribe. Russian Mission is a Yup'ik Eskimo village. Subsistence is the focus of the culture. The sale or importation of alcohol is banned in the village. Snow machines enable inter-village transportation in the winter; a winter trail is marked to Kalskag (25 mi.)

Climate

• Climate exhibits a significant maritime influence
• Temperatures range from -54 to 86
• Precipitation averages 16 in/yr
• Snowfall averages 60 in/yr
• Heavy northern winds often limit air access in the fall and winter
• The Lower Yukon is ice-free from mid-June through October.

Community Weather

   Clear, 46°F