Río Bueno is a city and commune in southern Chile, situated in the Ranco Province of the Los Ríos Region. The settlement takes its name from the Bueno River, which flows through the area.
Geography
The commune covers an area of 2,211.7 km² (approximately 854 sq mi) and lies at an elevation of 43 m (141 ft) above sea level. Coordinates are 40°19′ S 72°58′ W. It is located about 35 km north of the city of Osorno.
History
Río Bueno was founded in 1778 during the Spanish colonial period. The town developed around a fort and later grew as a center for agriculture and livestock.
Administration
As a third‑level administrative division, Río Bueno is governed by a municipal council headed by an alcalde (mayor) elected for a four‑year term. The current alcalde is Luis Reyes Álvarez (UDI). The commune belongs to Chile’s 54th electoral district for the Chamber of Deputies and to the 16th senatorial constituency for the Senate.
Demographics
According to the 2012 census, the commune had a total population of 31,366, with a near‑equal gender distribution (16,418 men and 16,209 women). The population is split between urban (15,054 inhabitants, 46.1 %) and rural (17,573 inhabitants, 53.9 %). Historical census data show gradual growth from 4,255 residents in 1875 to a peak of 34,387 in 1940, followed by modest fluctuations in the late 20th and early 21st centuries.
Economy
The local economy is heavily based on agriculture, livestock, and dairy production; Río Bueno is noted for being a major milk‑producing area within Chile. The Bueno River also supports a notable sport‑fishing industry.
Climate
Río Bueno experiences a temperate oceanic climate. Average daily maximum temperatures range from 23.7 °C (74.7 °F) in January to 10.8 °C (51.4 °F) in July. Mean annual precipitation is 1,235 mm (48.6 in), with the wettest months being May and June. Relative humidity averages around 81 %.
Infrastructure
The commune uses the telephone area code +56 63 and observes Chile Standard Time (UTC−4) and Chile Summer Time (UTC−3).
References
- National Statistics Institute, Chile (Census data).
- Municipality of Río Bueno official website.
- Wikipedia, “Río Bueno, Chile”.