The U.S. Census Bureau held a news conference to kick off the 2020 Census. Census Bureau Director Steven Dillingham will give an update on the first enumeration in Toksook Bay, Alaska, which begins on Jan. 21.

Alaska’s vast, sparsely settled northern areas are traditionally the first to be counted. Local census takers must get a head start while the frozen ground allows easier access to remote areas with unique accessibility challenges.

In addition, many residents leave following the spring thaw to fish and hunt or for other warm-weather jobs, making it difficult to get an accurate count in the days leading up to Census Day (April 1). The remaining portion of Alaska, including Anchorage, will be counted with the rest of the country beginning in March.

The news conference highlighted the great lengths to which the Census Bureau goes to count everyone living in the United States, including remote Alaska.

Alaska’s Complete Count Committee and other local 2020 Census partners attended to discuss efforts to improve response rates, spread awareness of and promote participation in the next decennial census.