U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has ordered contractors building sections of the border wall in New Mexico to cease drilling new wells for water needed in construction. The directive comes after ranchers expressed fears that the pumping of groundwater, essential for mixing concrete and dust suppression, could critically deplete water resources already strained by a severe drought, potentially threatening their livestock.
Cattle ranchers in the area, including Russell Johnson, who operates a ranch along the border, stated that the drought has already forced them to reduce their herds. Johnson raised concerns after observing an industrial well being drilled on leased grazing land, noting its capacity to pump 300 gallons per minute, far exceeding the 3-7 gallons per minute his own 12 wells can produce.
A CBP spokesperson confirmed the instruction to stop drilling new wells and indicated the agency would collaborate with New Mexico state officials and the U.S. Department of Agriculture to develop a groundwater strategy. "CBP is committed to working collaboratively with local landowners to ensure that construction activities do not adversely impact their water needs," the agency stated.
The New Mexico Office of the State Engineer reported that at least eight wells had been drilled along the southern border without state permission, with more potentially undiscovered. The office stated that all non-tribal wells in New Mexico require permits from the state engineer before drilling or pumping can commence. The wells in question were drilled on a federally owned strip of land known as the Roosevelt Reservation, located 60 miles north of the border.
Tom Patterson, president of the New Mexico Cattle Growers' Association, emphasized water as the primary concern for ranchers and questioned why contractors could not procure water from existing sources, such as farms, ranches, or municipalities, as had been done in past border wall construction projects.
While the moratorium on new well drilling is seen as a positive step, concerns remain about existing wells being pumped if deemed necessary for construction. Johnson, a former Border Patrol agent who supports the border wall, stated that the construction should not jeopardize livelihoods and that the wells were drilled illegally.
Both candidates vying for a congressional seat representing the area have claimed credit for the directive. Republican congressional candidate Greg Cunningham stated he advocated for the agreement with CBP, while incumbent Congressman Gabe Vasquez highlighted his efforts on the House floor to address the ranchers' concerns and protect water rights.