U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has ordered construction crews building a border wall in drought-stricken New Mexico to immediately halt drilling new wells, following complaints from local cattle ranchers that groundwater extraction threatened their livelihoods.
The directive, issued in response to concerns raised by landowners, marks a reversal from prior construction practices and comes as crews work to complete one of the Trump administration’s highest domestic priorities. CBP confirmed the stoppage in a statement, emphasizing a commitment to collaboration with local stakeholders to mitigate adverse impacts on water resources.
Ranchers cite unsustainable water use
Russell Johnson, a cattle rancher whose leased grazing land borders the U.S.-Mexico border in Luna County, New Mexico, raised concerns after drilling crews extracted 300 gallons of water per minute from an industrial well on his property—far exceeding the 3 to 7 gallons per minute produced by his 12 existing wells. Johnson, a former Border Patrol agent who supports the border wall’s construction, stated that the water extraction could force ranchers to reduce herd sizes or shut down operations entirely.
“It would put us in an immediate catastrophe and having to do something with our livestock. I mean, it could potentially put some people out of business, us included,” Johnson told the Associated Press during a public meeting in July.
The issue prompted CBP to temporarily pause drilling activities and reassess water sourcing protocols. In a statement, the agency acknowledged the concerns and pledged to work with landowners to ensure construction activities do not exacerbate water shortages.
Border wall construction amid water scarcity
The border wall project, spanning four states and backed by $46 billion in federal funding, relies on large-scale water extraction to mix concrete for roads, wall construction, and dust suppression. The project has faced ongoing scrutiny in Texas and California, where residents and environmental groups have raised concerns about ecological damage, land seizures, and construction impacts.
CBP has not provided a timeline for resuming well drilling but stated that it remains committed to completing the barrier while addressing local water needs. The agency did not respond to requests for additional details on alternative water sources or revised construction plans.
Background: Drought and local economic strain
New Mexico has experienced prolonged drought conditions, forcing ranchers to adapt by reducing herd sizes or relocating livestock. The region’s water table has been under significant stress, with agricultural and municipal demands already straining available resources. Johnson’s case highlights the tension between federal infrastructure projects and local agricultural sustainability, particularly in water-scarce areas.
CBP’s decision to halt well drilling reflects an acknowledgment of these competing priorities, though the long-term resolution remains unresolved.