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AGRICULTURE IN THE COQUIMBO REGION
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The Coquimbo Region is a special place for those interested or
working in agriculture and related fields. Because of its
unique location in the semi arid low coastal hills of the pre Andean range,
the Region benefits from two extraordinary transversal valleys whose yield
is rich in fruits, vegetables and vineyards making this a zone of
astonishingly rich vegetation in contrast to the natural surrounding
of semi arid desert.
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The valleys of the Elqui and Limari rivers have
the benefit of a combination of clear skies and sunshine all year
round. The low rainfall, yearly average 96 mm. is
counteracted by integrated irrigation systems of dams and canals
The valleys utilize the 'drip irrigation' system which is
effectively used for the production of all types of crops. The
ideal growing conditions together with soil rich in natural minerals
have been encouraged by the Government in the research and
development of agriculture in semi arid regions.
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Recent experiments have been in tuna cactus
plantations for the production of cochineal the natural red
colourant produced by insects living as parasites on the tuna cactus, the
development of the 'pepino' (sweet cucumber), new fruits and organic
production of crops, especially tomatoes. Large areas of land in these two
valleys are devoted to the production of grapes for wine and pisco as well as an
expansive exportation of the early table grapes to all parts of the world
through the Port of Coquimbo. The recent
success of this valuable export which has rapid transportation via an
infrastructure of good road and sea communications together with a reliable
workforce producing export grapes of both quality and quantity.
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