Advocacy Alert: Map Update

Subject: Urgent request on Big Bend Project 5 and the changed CBP map Dear [TITLE AND LAST NAME], I am a resident of [CITY, STATE / ZIP]. CBP has changed its proposed route for Big Bend Project 5 without public notice. Shumla’s September 22 review found that the route moved closer to the Rio Grande west of Eagle Nest Canyon and closer to Highway 90 elsewhere. It now runs much closer to Panther Cave and Rattlesnake Canyon. The revised route places 64,908 acres on the river side of the barrier, an increase of 2,208 acres. Shumla identified 410 known archaeological sites on the river side, including 78 rock art sites. Additionally, 108 known archaeological sites lie within 500 yards of the route on either side, including 33 with rock art. Please [SPECIFIC REQUEST FOR THIS OFFICIAL]. Require DHS and CBP to explain the route change, demonstrate the operational need, consult affected landowners and Tribal communities, assess impacts, and evaluate lower-impact security options before irreversible work proceeds. [ADD TWO PERSONAL SENTENCES.] Sincerely, [NAME] [CITY, STATE / ZIP]

Hello, my name is [NAME], and I live in [CITY / ZIP]. I’m calling about Big Bend Project 5. CBP changed the proposed route without notice, moving it closer to Panther Cave and Rattlesnake Canyon and placing 2,208 additional acres on the river side of the barrier. The government should explain why this project warrants such a large investment and show that the cost is justified. I’m asking [OFFICIAL] to seek an immediate pause on irreversible work, request a public explanation, and protect affected landowners, Tribal cultural interests, Seminole Canyon, and Lower Pecos rock art. Please record my request and send me the office’s response. My contact information is [EMAIL OR PHONE].

Subject: Protect the Lower Pecos Canyonlands and respond to the changed project map Dear [TITLE AND LAST NAME], I live in [CITY, STATE], and I am asking you to act urgently on Big Bend Project 5. CBP changes the proposed route periodically without notifying the public. Shumla’s September 22, 2026 GIS review found that the current route moved closer to the Rio Grande west of Eagle Nest Canyon and closer to Highway 90 in other areas. The route now passes much closer to Panther Cave and Rattlesnake Canyon. The Lower Pecos Canyonlands preserve one of North America’s most significant archaeological records. People began creating murals there nearly 6,000 years ago and continued the tradition for more than 4,000 years. These places remain part of living Indigenous heritage and include public lands, private ranches, and Seminole Canyon State Park and Historic Site. Under the revised route, 64,908 acres lie on the river side of the proposed barrier, an increase of 2,208 acres. Shumla identified 410 known archaeological sites on the river side, including 78 rock art sites. Additionally, 108 known archaeological sites lie within 500 yards of the route on either side, including 33 with rock art. I believe effective border security and protecting our cultural heritage are not mutually exclusive. DHS and CBP should demonstrate the need for this infrastructure in this rugged terrain and evaluate non-invasive, non-destructive measures that can meet the mission with fewer permanent impacts. DHS awarded a $2.594 billion design-build contract for Big Bend Project 5. Before public funds are committed to infrastructure that may cause lasting effects, DHS and CBP should explain the operational need, show how the cost is justified, and evaluate lower-impact options. Please use every available authority of your office to secure an immediate pause on construction, surveying, property access, and government approvals for Big Bend Project 5 in Val Verde County. Before any irreversible work proceeds, DHS and CBP should be required to: 1. Publish the current route and explain changes made since the public comment period. 2. Demonstrate operational need using current, location-specific data. 3. Consult affected landowners and Tribal communities. 4. Assess effects on archaeological sites, rock art, working ranches, public lands, and public access. 5. Evaluate detection technology and other lower-impact security options. Please provide a written response describing the actions your office will take. Sincerely, [NAME] [STREET ADDRESS] [CITY, STATE, ZIP]

Subject: Protect Seminole Canyon and Texas land from irreversible harm Dear [TITLE AND LAST NAME], CBP has changed the proposed route for Big Bend Project 5 without public notice. I am asking you to intervene now to protect Seminole Canyon State Park and Historic Site, Texas landowners, and the cultural heritage entrusted to the State of Texas. DHS awarded a $2.594 billion design-build contract for Big Bend Project 5. Before public funds are committed to infrastructure that could cause lasting damage, DHS and CBP should explain why it is necessary, show how the cost is justified, and evaluate lower-impact options. Please require a public explanation of the route change and updated impact analysis before Texas grants access, easements, permits, or other approvals. Ask DHS and CBP to demonstrate the operational need and evaluate detection technology or other site-specific alternatives with fewer permanent effects. Texas should protect public land and irreplaceable cultural resources through full review of the facts, meaningful consultation, and alternatives. Please provide a written response describing what action your office will take. Sincerely, [NAME] [CITY, STATE / ZIP]