Wide-open spaces are what define Sterling County. It’s tucked away in West Texas, where the horizon seems to stretch forever and you can see for miles. It’s a tiny county, with only about 1,000 people calling it home. Out here, there’s a whole lot more land than people.

Ranching is the heart of the local economy. Sterling City, despite sounding like a bustling place, is actually a small town and serves as the county seat. Oil and gas have also brought money into the area over the years, adding another layer to the county’s rural economy.

There aren’t any major rivers here, but creeks and dry draws cut through the rugged landscape. Mesas and canyons give the terrain plenty of character. Winters can be bitter, while summers are brutally hot. It’s a tough environment, but the people of Sterling County are just as resilient as the land they call home.