It is narrated from Sayyiduna Jabir (may Allah be pleased with him) that the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said: Whoever revives barren, deserted land will receive its reward, and for every animal that eats from it, he will receive the reward of charity for all of them.
Hadith Referenceمسند احمد / مسند المكثرين من الصحابة / 14839
Hadith Gradingحکم دارالسلام:حديث صحيح، وأبو الزبير لم يصرح بالسماع، لكنه قد توبع، وانظر: 14271 و 15201