a riparian ecosystem refers to the forest wetland area and involves the microorganisms, plants, wildlife, and the river itself. the ecosystem is a carefully balanced dynamic between all living creatures using the area to lay eggs for offspring, build dams to create more habitable living areas, and feast on the berries and nearby plants.

according to the bureau of land management, new mexico is home to the fourth highest amount of native species in the united states, many of which rely on riparian ecosystems to survive. these ecosystems are threatened by wildlife overgrazing the area and damaging the nearby river banks.

at the vermejo reserve, a 550,000 acre property along the colorado border, conservation staff have launched initiatives to reduce elk overgrazing by building exclosures (think really high fences!). this tactic, among others, led to the natural reintegration of beavers into the vermejo river and an improved riparian ecosystem.

click on the video above to learn more!

editor’s note: this series was made possible with the generous support of turner reserves and contributions by the turner family. all editorial content is published independently. 

planet forward’s environmental media lab led this expedition to teach the power of visual storytelling in wild spaces to convey the beauty and bounty of our planet.