On February 17, the Department of Homeland Security waived 28 federal environmental laws — including the Endangered Species Act, the Clean Water Act, and the Wild & Scenic Rivers Act — to fast-track construction of a border barrier system through some of the most remote and pristine land in the country: Big Bend National Park and Big Bend Ranch State Park.

Before construction begins, Customs and Border Protection is required to accept public comments.
The deadline has been extended to April 6, 2026.

HOW TO SUBMIT YOUR COMMENTS

By phone: Call (833) 412-2056

By email: Send your comments to [email protected]
Include “Big Bend Border Barrier System” in the subject line.

WHAT TO SAY

Speak from the heart. If you’ve visited Big Bend, hiked its trails, paddled the Rio Grande, or spent money in the gateway communities — say so. Personal stories carry weight in a public comment process.

Some points to consider:

• Big Bend National Park and Big Bend Ranch State Park are irreplaceable natural treasures that belong to all Americans
• The Big Bend Sector accounts for roughly 2.6% of all southwest border crossings — the region’s steep canyons, rugged terrain, and the Rio Grande itself are natural barriers
• A border wall would devastate the local tourism economy — Big Bend attracts over 500,000 annual visitors generating $60+ million in local spending
• The wall would choke off vital wildlife migration routes and intensify flooding risks along the Rio Grande
• Detection technology and existing CBP presence are effective alternatives to a physical barrier in this terrain

Every comment matters. Federal agencies are required to review and consider public input. Make yours count before the April 6 deadline.

For more background, read the National Parks Conservation Association’s response to the proposal.

For more ways to take action, visit our Call and Write pages to contact your representatives directly.