Still the fastest growing region: Matanuska-Susitna Borough has it all.

• Author: Barbour, Tracy
• Position: REGIONAL REVIEW - City overview

The Matanuska-Susitna Valley--commonly called the "Mat-Su Valley" or simply "the Valley"--occupies the core of Southcentral Alaska. The region encompasses more than 25,000 square miles across the valleys of the Matanuska and Susitna rivers. Geographically, the Valley is about the size of West Virginia or the country of Scotland.

The Mat-Su Valley is replete with wildlife, beautiful vistas and a rare view of four major mountain ranges: the Alaska, Chugach, Talkeetna and Wrangell-St. Elias. The Alaska Range is located in the northwest part of the borough, while the Chugach Range borders the southeast side of the borough. The Talkeetna Range lies on the eastern end of the Mat-Su Borough and features gently sloped mountains that are a popular attraction to recreationists, especially Hatcher Pass, which is accessible through Willow, Wasilla and Palmer. The Wrangell Mountains--which are not located in the Valley--have peaks that are visible on the far eastern end of the borough's border toward Glennallen.

With its wide open spaces, rural appeal and hundreds of public-use trails, the Mat-Su Borough is a magnet for outdoor enthusiasts and others seeking a slower pace. Its residents and visitors can engage in everything from skiing, snowshoeing and ice climbing to hunting, fishing and hiking. For access to more activities, attractions and amenities, Anchorage is just a 40-minute drive away.

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"We think we have it all," says Borough Manager John Duffy. "We have the closeness to Anchorage, so you can have all the cultural events of a major city. It's an exciting place."

There are three incorporated cities within the borough: Palmer, Wasilla and Houston. The borough's economy, which Duffy describes as "better than stable," is driven by finance, insurance, real estate and retail. Government employment and health care are also important to the area's economy.

STILL ALASKA'S LARGEST GROWING REGION

The Mat-Su Borough is considered the commercial center of Alaska agriculture, having the largest number and concentration of farms and farm-related businesses. The Valley is the state's leading producer of potatoes, carrots, lettuce, cabbage and other vegetables, and is known for producing huge vegetables during a 100-day growing season.

The borough also is well known for being the official restart of the historic Iditarod race and the home of the legendary Iron Dog snowmobile race from Big Lake to Nome to Fairbanks. In addition, the Valley...