Nothing has changed in Milagro, New Mexico, for 300 years. Then, one day, Joe Mondragon kicks the off-limits community water pipe and begins to irrigate the cracked, dry ground that was once his father's beanfield. The developers of a new luxury recreation area--which is sure to force the natives away--are none too pleased by Joe's actions, and a culture clash ensues between Milagro's colourful, quirky residents and the authorities. The film is based on the novel by John Nichols.