Twenty years ago, a small canyon in the middle of El Paso was at risk of being lost to development. Community members came together, determined to protect it, and the Wakeem/Teschner Nature Preserve (Resler Canyon) was born.

That moment marked the beginning of Frontera’s journey. What started with one canyon has grown into a movement to protect the lands, waters, and wildlife of the northern Chihuahuan Desert.

Over the years, the work has stretched far beyond Resler Canyon:

*This year marks the 5 year anniversary of the Knapp Land and Lost Dog Nature Preserves, which provide critical water reclamation.

*The official dedication of Castner Range National Monument in 2023, ensuring a historically and environmentally significant piece of the Chihuahuan Desert is protected forever.

*A new conservation easement in Jeff Davis County this year, which will host research on bird species through a grant from Cornell Lab of Ornithology.

*Since last October, 6 sessions of Desert Discovery Camps for youth to experience the Chihuahuan Desert, including learning key outdoor recreation skills and environmental education concepts from rangers at Franklin Mountains State Park and Hueco Tanks State Park.

*Creating spaces where some 6000 community members — families, students, volunteers — connect with the desert each year through guided hikes, hands-on learning activities, and restoration.

*Caring for over 1,400 acres of preserves and more than 14 miles of trails so the desert can remain wild, open, and thriving.

This El Paso Giving Day, we invite you to be part of the next chapter. The need to protect open space has never been greater. Together, we can ensure that future generations inherit a desert that is alive with beauty, biodiversity, and wonder.

Let’s continue what began in Resler Canyon!