There are many natural resources in Patagonia and especially in the Chubut province, including petroleum and gold, and mining companies are interested in extracting these resources. Extracting these resources through mining, however, damages the natural beauty of the area, and also risks contaminating the water and soil. In 2004, a group of neighbors in Esquel created a movement called “No a la Mina” (“No to mining”) to resist a mining project just outside the city. This movement celebrated its 20th anniversary in March, and I was able to end the celebrations! People are still fighting today to ensure that their lands remain healthy and liveable for future generations.
People in Patagonia participate in many activities connected to the local environment. Many Patagonians raise livestock, especially sheep and cows, or grow a variety of crops. My landlady has a big garden where she grows produce such as pears, kale, potatoes, carrots, and rosemary. She is always bringing me different things she has grown!
Tourism is also very important to the local economy. People from all over the world come to see the beauties of Patagonia year-round, whether they come to hike in the summer, ski in the winter, enjoy the flowers in the spring, or admire the colorful leaves in the fall. The mountains and hills in this region make a great place to do outdoor sports such as trail running, backpacking, mountain biking, and snowboarding. The rivers offer great spots for kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, and white water rafting.
