Values associated with nature. Mapping the ombu tree in Uruguayan landscapes Ana Vallarino Katzenstein Instituto de Diseño, Facultad de Arquitectura, Universidad de la República, Uruguay Abstract. This project aims at creating awareness about the value of local landscapes and history in interaction with natural components, in particu- lar- given their paradigmatic nature - ombu 1 trees, both as individual spec- imens and as a species. Salvaging and disseminating values associated with nature - understood as cultural construct – contributes to the knowledge and enjoyment of a landscape, as a way of linking human practices and rep- resentations referring to nature, fostering the creation of a collective re- sponsibility in this respect. It is proposed to involve the population in a re- search process using mapping as a tool for integration. The process of gath- ering and disseminating data is linked with awareness of the natural and cultural heritage, strengthening local and national identities. Keywords: Role of cartography, Landscape practices and representations, Interactive maps 1 Phytolacca dioica, or ombú, is a very large evergreen tree-like plant, native to South Ameri- ca. Its trunk – usually widening at the base- consists of anomalous secondary thickening rather than true wood.