Selawik Lake

Nestled in the pristine wilderness of Northwest Arctic Borough, Alaska, Selawik Lake, known in Inupiaq as Imaġruk, is a natural wonder that exemplifies the serene beauty of the Alaskan landscape. As the third-largest lake in Alaska and the seventeenth largest in the United States, Selawik Lake stretches over a vast expanse and offers a glimpse into the untouched natural world.

Geographical Significance

Spanning an impressive 31 miles (50 km) in length, Selawik Lake boasts a surface area of approximately 404 square miles (1,050 km²). Its geographical location is significant as it lies only 7 miles (11 km) southwest of the town of Selawik and adjacent to the Selawik National Wildlife Refuge. This proximity provides vital habitat for a diverse array of wildlife and plays a crucial role in the regional ecosystem.

Ecological Importance

Selawik Lake is a critical component of the Selawik National Wildlife Refuge, which serves as a haven for numerous species of birds, mammals, and fish. The lake and its surrounding wetlands support a rich biodiversity, making it an essential area for conservation efforts and a significant contributor to Alaska’s natural heritage.

Cultural and Historical Context

The lake’s name, Imaġruk, reflects its roots in the Iñupiaq language and culture. First reported in 1842–44 by Lt. Lavrenty Zagoskin of the Imperial Russian Navy, the name Selawik was originally used to refer to an Iñupiaq tribe or village. It later gained wider recognition through the explorations of Sir John Franklin and his team around 1850, as they searched for the Northwest Passage.