In semi-arid zones forest cover provides important ecosystem services such as avoidance of soil erosion, increasing water retention, soil formation as well as provide woody and non-woody forest products. However, these forests are under treat, revealing signs of decline and lack of natural regeneration caused by climate change, and land-use intensification. In this video we explain the importance of looking for characteristics at the local (micro) level for forest recovery. Using aerial photos was possible to monitor the vegetation cover growth over sixty years. We show that the areas with less solar exposure had up to 80% of tree cover, while the most exposed areas tend to have only up to 5%. In areas less exposed to the sun, the forest can regenerate because of the good microclimatic conditions, while in most exposed areas, where the conditions were less favourable, the young trees need help to assure their survival. For successful forest restoration, it is very important to consider the specific conditions of each location. Using this knowledge, we can improve planning and regenerate the forests for our future.