1. United States
2. Texas
3. Letter

I am writing to urge you to oppose the waiver of environmental laws for border barrier and road construction in and around Big Bend National Park. Big Bend is one of the most ecologically significant and beloved landscapes in Texas. It contains unique desert, mountain, and river ecosystems that support hundreds of species of birds, mammals, reptiles, and plants. Once this habitat is damaged, it cannot simply be restored. What makes this proposal especially troubling is that the Big Bend region has historically experienced relatively low levels of unlawful border crossings compared to many other sections of the border. Destroying sensitive habitat and bypassing environmental review in a national park for infrastructure that may provide little practical benefit is difficult to justify. Environmental laws exist for a reason. They ensure that projects are carefully studied, that impacts to wildlife and public lands are considered, and that the public has a voice. Waiving these protections sets a dangerous precedent that could threaten national parks and other protected lands across the country. As someone who cares deeply about conservation and the future of our public lands, I ask that you work to reverse these waivers, restore environmental oversight, and protect Big Bend National Park from unnecessary development. Texans should not have to choose between border security and the preservation of one of our state’s greatest natural treasures. We can and must achieve both. Future generations deserve the opportunity to experience the dark skies, wilderness, wildlife, and natural beauty of Big Bend just as we do today. Thank you for your time and consideration. I urge you to take action to protect Big Bend National Park.