Tracing the Maipo

This collection of photos tells the story of social and environmental change in the Maipo River basin, from the Andes Mountains to the Pacific coast of central Chile. Climate change, rapid economic development, and mounting social tensions have left their mark on this critical river basin. The Maipo River provides drinking water for Santiago, irrigation for an important agricultural sector, and hydroelectricity for growing urban and industrial needs. It also supports rural livelihoods and critical ecosystems, which are increasingly threatened due to scarcity and competition. Photographed during June and July of 2015 with University of Arizona researcher Sophia Borgias.