Some active programs are oriented to protect endangered species such as the Tagua Project, dedicated to the preservation of an endangered bird, the coot and in charge of its propagation. Coots were believed to be extinct, but fortunately some specimens were discovered in 1973. Thanks to the national authorities' protection of the fauna and flora, this country has become a valuable destination for ecotourism. Although deposits of petroleum, iron, manganese, salt, and other minerals are reported, they are not exploited commercially. Limestone, extracted in significant amounts, was used in producing about 269,200 metric tons of cement annually in the late 1980s.
Manufacturing is confined largely to agricultural and forestry products and to basic consumer goods.
Among the important products are packed meat and other foodstuffs, textiles, wood products, and chemicals. It is the largest region in the country, and is also the least populated. However, it is inhabited by only a little more than 2 percent of the nations's population. Nonetheless, the peculiar landscape of El Chaco and its exclusive fauna and flora make it uniquely interesting to tourists. The Chaco can be reached by boat or highway on the Trans-Chaco route.