2024 Map of Barter Island A-5 SW

About this map

Arctic National Wildlife Refuge encompasses the vast majority of this landscape along the edge of the Beaufort Sea. The terrain is defined by a complex coastal boundary where the Okpilak River and Jago River meet the salt water, creating a network of intricate wetlands and channels. Off the coast, the elongated profile of Arey Island acts as a natural barrier, sheltering the waters of Arey Lagoon from the open sea. This 2024 survey illustrates the delicate hydrology of the North Slope, where the Kuvritovik Entrance serves as a critical break in the barrier islands. The absence of roads or permanent structures underscores the remote and protected nature of this arctic ecosystem, focusing instead on the intersection of river deltas and the maritime environment.