From Desert Springs to High Plains: A journey through Arizona, Mexico & Texas

In early August, I had the privilege of travelling through Arizona, northern Mexico, and the High Plains of Texas – three regions united by their arid climates, deep connection to water scarcity and resilience, and inspiring efforts in landscape rehydration. 

My journey began in Arizona, where I finally met Dr. Laura Norman and her team at the United States Geological Survey (USGS). Laura is a fantastic researcher and long-time collaborator with Mulloon Institute—we’re currently working together on a series of educational animations to share the science and practice of natural infrastructure in dryland systems (NIDS). Her research shows how nature-based solutions can improve water quality, reduce erosion, and recharge aquifers. 

Thanks to Laura, I also visited Josiah Austin’s ranch in Wilcox, where decades of work with loose rock dams, cement and rock weirs and berms have transformed the desert into a resilient, sponge-like landscape – supporting both agriculture and endangered wildlife. Despite visiting during the worst drought on record, the impact of these efforts was clear and inspiring. 

Crossing into Mexico, I was welcomed by Valer Clark and the team at Cuenca Los Ojos. Their mission to restore degraded ranchlands through waterway repair and rewilding is nothing short of remarkable. Seeing sediment-filled gabion weirs, revived springs, and even a beaver dam – yes, in the desert! (pictured below in Gallery) – was a powerful reminder of what’s possible with persistence and passion. 

Back in Arizona, we wrapped up the journey in Patagonia with a visit to the Borderlands Restoration Network. A big thank you to Ryan, who hosted us and shared the organisation’s impactful work in watershed restoration and native plant programs. It was a fitting end to a journey focused on healing landscapes and building resilience. 

The final leg of the trip took me to Amarillo, Texas, in the heart of the High Plains. This region, once devastated by the Dust Bowl and now facing groundwater depletion of the Ogallala Aquifer, is at a critical crossroads. I was hosted by Timothy Ingalls of Frying Pan Ranch, who is trialling landscape rehydration and regenerative grazing practices. After years of remote collaboration, it was a joy to finally walk the land with Tim. 

I also connected with Will Masters from Ogallala Life and Donavan Johnson, a NIDS expert working across multiple states. Their work with beaver dam analogues and watershed restoration is helping to recharge groundwater and build resilience in this drought-prone region. I was honoured to lead a field day hosted by Ogallala Life, sharing the Mulloon Institute’s approach and learning from a passionate local community. 

This journey was made possible by the generosity of so many—Tim, Will, Laura, Josiah, Valer, and Ryan. Thank you for your hospitality, your knowledge, and your commitment to healing the land. I look forward to continuing this important work together. 

Erin Healy
Environmental Engineer + Program Manager

Mulloon Institute’s Erin Healy shares highlights from her recent travels across Arizona, Mexico, and Texas, reconnecting with collaborators and exploring dryland restoration in action.