Hybridization of ‘green’ and engineered infrastructure, informed by protecting or restoring catchment processes, can resolve interconnected demands on catchment ecosystems, potentially also reversing historic degradation of socio-ecological systems. Pressures are acute in water-scarce, developing regions with episodic rainfall, exacerbated by historic presumptions favouring engineered management. Comparing conditions, histories and emerging approaches in contrasting regions–the Central Plateau of Burkina Faso, Rajasthan State (India) and Ayacucho Region (Peru)–reveals similar yet distinct approaches reflecting different starting regimes. Transferrable learning about hybridizing localized, nature-based solutions and engineered technology informs the necessary transition towards a sustainable approach in these and other regions.