Originally published in the Houston Chronicle and posted by ProtectNPS.org
As the former superintendent of Big Bend National Park, I spent the capstone years of my career working to protect this remarkable desert landscape. I am appalled that the Department of Homeland Security is now planning to build a completely unnecessary massive border wall through the spectacular river frontage that gives Big Bend its name — and with no public or environmental review.
I strongly support a secure border with Mexico and worked closely with U.S. Customs and Border Protection during my five years at Big Bend. But there are two goals for the government here. National Park Service rangers and Border Patrol agents must both effectively monitor this broad stretch of wilderness and also protect the wild, scenic, recreational and ecologically important treasures that make this place beloved by Texans.
Luckily, in my experience, border security and conservation are compatible when agencies cooperate.
Read the full article at ProtectNPS.org.
Comments are closed