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MOST IMPORTANT CANTONS
Santo Domingo de los Colorados

This is the province's youngest canton with the fastest growth rate with regards to demography and economy.  This is mainly due to the fertile terrain and the abundance of natural resources present in the area, which has attracted a number of immigrants and investors from around the country.  It has a good geographical location and is one of the country's most important communication centres in the northern regions of the sierra.  Agricultural production is important in the region, the principle crops being: African palm, banana, coffee, cocoa, fruits and abacus.  Santo Domingo began to prosper in 1947 with the inaugeration of the new highway extending from Quito to Santo Domingo, opening up new routes to villages and towns.  These routes were further improved with the opening of the Santo Domingo-Esmeraldas highway in 1949.  The indigenous population consists of indios colorados who have their own culture, traditions and customs which are slowly giving way to other more modern life-styles.

Sangolqui and Machachi

Capitals of the cantons Ruminahui and Mejia respectively,  Sangolqui and Machachi are dedicated to agricultural production of which the majority of crops are exported to Quito.  Due to Sangolqui's proximity to the capital, the urban population has increased and agricultural production has consequently declined.  The number of country houses and 'vacational' fincas (small farms) has actually increased.  Mejia, in contrast, is dedicated to cattle farming for milk production and cultivation. 

Cayambe and Pedro Moncayo

Cayambe is an important cattle breeding area due to its size and fertile terrain.  However, some parts have suffered land erosion due to mismanagment of soils and the uneven character of the land.  Pedro Moncayo, whose capital is Tabacundo, has uneven dry, gritty terrain.  Cattle farming in the hacienda's of the area is flourishing producing milk and dairy products. 

Last Updated 17th August 2006 (DLW)

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