© European Union, Copernicus Sentinel-2 imagery

Vegetation in the Patagonian Desert, Argentina

Stretching across the arid plains of northern Patagonia, the Alto Valle of the Río Negro is a remarkable agricultural oasis in Argentina. Despite the surrounding semi-desert landscape, this narrow strip thrives thanks to irrigation from the Río Negro River, supporting one of the country’s most productive fruit-growing regions. Orchards of apples. pears, and stone fruits dominate the valley, along with vineyards and vegetable crops. 

This Copernicus Sentinel-2 false-colour image, acquired on 12 March 2025, shows vegetation along the Río Negro in bright green, sharply contrasting with the barren terrain around it. 

Copernicus Sentinel satellite data is essential for monitoring crop health and tracking land use changes in agricultural systems around the world, helping to ensure long-term sustainability in challenging environments.