Friday, November 1, 2013

Patagonia Rising 2011

Patagonia Rising     There is a possible construction project to build five large dams in Patagonia to generate electricity for Santiago.  The Baker River and the Pascua are two of the world’s purest free flowing rivers in Patagonia.  The frontier people are caught up in this project because it is their land that will be changed and flooded.  There are several sides to this issue.  The energy company, HidroAysen, the landowners and proponents of other sources of energy such as wind power and solar power.  The use of wind power and solar power is renewable and sustainable without any destruction of natural resourses.  The energy company has lied to the people on previous dam projects.  They say they pay the people for their land but is it a fair market value considering they will be moved to another property without access to water?  Their current lifestyles and livelihoods are based on being near the water.
     The latest information on this project is that it was approved on May 9, 2011 but the transmission line had not yet been approved.  The project is now on hold due to protests and a court case against the project.  The first appeal was denied but as of March 5, 2013, the rivers are still running free and the 79% of the people are against the dams.  A somewhat repetitive film but beautiful scenery of the area and important information from the residents.  3 ½* (I liked this movie)

85 min, Doc directed by Brian Lilla with Carla Wilkins, Herman Salazar, Bernardo Arratia, Lautaro Arratia, Mitzi Urtubia, Lalo Ojeda, Patrick McCully, Gino Gassasa. 

Note:  Imdb 6.9 out of 10, 50% critic 11% audience on Rotten Tomatoes.







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