Thirty years ago David Bamberger bought what he describes as “the worst land in Texas” and set out to restore it, inspired by a book by Louis Bromfield which he had read as a boy. The result is Bamberger Ranch.

He revitalized the land by removing much of the cedar and the deer population and planting native grasses, as well as trees. As a result of the conservation methods water began to flow again in the dry creek beds.

The tour there starts out with a stop at a “memorial” to man. The sentiment expressed on it may sound pessimistic but the ranch is actively doing what it can to prevent it from coming true through its educational programs. Thousands of school children and adults each year visit the nature trail and the other facilities on the ranch.