It is narrated from Sayyidah Aishah (may Allah be pleased with her) that the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him) said: "Whoever cultivates barren land has more right to it." Urwah (may Allah have mercy on him) said: Sayyiduna Umar (may Allah be pleased with him) gave this same ruling during his caliphate.
Hadith Referenceالسنن الكبرى للبيهقي / كتاب إحياء الموات / 11771