Farming in the Atacama Desert of Chile

31 December, 2009 / Read time: 1 minute

This short footage shows views of the endemic flora around San Pedro de Atacama, Chile. The San Pedro and Vilama rivers flow through the area, contributing to the presence of this vegetation. The main foods that arise from local agriculture in this oasis are: corn, beans, cotton and also pumpkins and potatoes.

The farmers have developed careful irrigation and water conservation methods so as not to waste even the smallest amount of water. Likewise, the vegetation and wildlife that thrive in this area have also developed ways to adapt to some of the driest conditions on the planet.

Credits: National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRAO)