Alerce (Fitzroya cupressoides) as Natural Monument: an economic factor of development in the Lake district, Chile

Abstract

This paper analyses the possibilities of improving the economic development of the Lake Region in Chile through a tourism proposal associated to alerce as a natural monument. Alerce, the natural patrimony object of this study is described and analysed, characterising the current demand and its trends. Finally, some points of view about the value of the resource are commented and the advantages and disadvantages of a possible tourist development associated to the natural areas where alerce grows are discussed. The Natural Monument Alerce is an attractive resource, among others, for its scenic beauty, its uniqueness and the millennial longevity of its individuals. In consequence, the economy associated to this resource, product of the demand of the new tourist destinations to pristine places which consider the environment, can be considered a suitable instrument for local development.