city, northwestern Michoacán estado (state), west-central Mexico. It lies on the central plateau, at 5,085 feet (1,550 m) above sea level, south of Lake Chapala. Although the climate is temperate, rainfall is only moderate. Irrigation has opened up land for the cultivation of corn (maize), beans, wheat, chick-peas, and tomatoes. The livestock industry is also significant, and dairying is widespread. Coal deposits are found nearby. Highways link Sahuayo with Morelia to the east and Guadalajara to the northwest. A road also leads to La Barca (Jalisco state), on the Lerma River. Pop. (2000) 57,827.