BOACO

town, central Nicaragua, situated on the western flanks of the central highlands. Boaco is a commercial and manufacturing centre for the agricultural and pastoral hinterland. Dairying and the processing of livestock products are the town's most important activities. Soap, bricks, mineral water, and Panama hats are manufactured, and there is some sawmilling. The region surrounding Boaco is important agriculturally, producing cattle, swine, hides and skins, dairy products, rice, corn (maize), and beans. The rural population is concentrated in highland valleys around Boaco. There are no railroads, but Boaco is connected to the Pan-American Highway and to Managua, the national capital. Pop. (1985 est.) 15,645.