Extracting these resources through mining, however, damages the natural beauty of the area, and also risks contaminating the water and soil. In 2003, a group of neighbors in Esquel created a movement called “No a la Mina” (“No to mining”) to protest a proposed mining project just outside the city. During a city-wide vote on whether to allow mining near the city, over 80% of people in Esquel voted “no.” The 20th anniversary of this historic vote took place in March this year, and I was able to attend 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 economic 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.
Tourism is also very important to the local economy. People from all over the world come to see the beauty of Patagonia year round, whether they come to hike in the summer, ski in the winter, enjoy the spring flowers or admire the gorgeous fall leaves. The mountains and hills in this region make a great place for outdoor sports including trail running, backpacking, mountain biking and snowboarding. The rivers offer great spots for kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding and white-water rafting.
