Four state and federal agencies have joined forces to promote conservation of natural resources in the Big Bend region.

A government statement Monday announced establishment of the Big Bend Conservation Cooperative.

The effort involves the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the U.S. Geological Survey, the National Park Service and the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department.

The agreement is meant to continue building on successful collaborative conservation projects in the Big Bend region of the Chihuahuan Desert. The goal is to bring more grass, birds and wildlife to the uplands and support a healthier Rio Grande.