After centuries of abuse, the lands we call Big Bend have finally begun to show signs of recovery. The source of this new fecundity is south of the Rio Bravo, where several groups—using myriad tactics—are revitalizing the earth. This new environmentalism has spilled over the border with a surge of animal life not seen in south Texas in lifetimes. A bright spot in an endlessly dour environmental outlook.

This project was commissioned by Audubon Magazine.