Foresting a Treeless Town

"Nome National Forest" sign stands on sea ice with scattered trees and painted decorations behind.

What’s that on the sea ice off Nome’s coast? Shortly after Christmas, each year, the town creates its own “forest” made up of used Christmas trees. It’s a seasonal example of Western Alaska cheerfully making due and making the most of available resources.

Read More

A Welcome Day in Kotzebue

Kotzebue, Alaska

A few months ago, KNOM’s Margaret DeMaioribus accompanied Nome parish priest Fr. Vince Burns on a day trip above the Arctic Circle: to the hub city of Kotzebue, Alaska.

Read More

Preparing for winter

Tara throws the switch

We’re at the start of our long, sub-Arctic winter. As rain and mud turn to snow and ice underfoot, we, like our listeners, are taking all the steps you’d expect to prepare for the colder months to come.

Read More

Cold nights and volunteer travel

The temperatures each night are falling to about -20º F, and the stars sparkle in the dark night sky. As the moon traverses the heavens, the sound of houses crackling and snapping can be heard. As the air gets colder, pilings shift a bit, twisting home supports and floors. The night is alive with this and so many…

Read More