Catamarca mining activities spark soil degradation concerns

Mining projects in the western departments of Catamarca, specifically Tinogasta and Andalgalá, are causing significant soil degradation, sparking protests from agricultural producers. The extraction activities have led to the removal of organic layers, soil compaction from heavy transit, and sediment deposition on crops, altering the physical and chemical composition of fertile land.

Soil science specialists warn that the loss of vegetation and substance infiltration reduces moisture retention, hindering traditional farming. Additionally, subsistence livestock farming is being impacted as dry material from waste piles covers natural pastures, reducing forage availability and accelerating the salinization of land basins in interior valleys.

Local producers and organizations are criticizing the Ministry of Mining for failing to conduct proper soil sampling and environmental remediation. Simultaneously, local supplier chambers, such as CAPROMITI, have conducted blockades to demand more equitable economic benefits and greater participation in service contracting within the region.