I have lived and worked in the beautiful and diverse region of West Texas for years, relishing its unique landscapes and biodiversity. Big Bend Ranch State Park is not just any park – it's a haven for the rich variety of flora and fauna, an essential watershed for the area, and a crucial part of our local economy driven by tourism.

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However, a proposed wall threatens to dismantle this unique ecosystem. If erected, this wall would have detrimental, irreversible impacts on the wildlife that call this pristine place home. According to a preliminary federal notice, The Trump Administration is waiving federal protections to build the wall, including protections like the National Environmental Policy Act, the Endangered Species Act, the Clean Water Act and a variety of wildlife and historic resources protection laws. Big Bend is home to species like peregrine falcons, black bears, and the endemic Montezuma quail. The views along River Road 170 are some of the most iconic views in the State of Texas. Building a physical wall through this section of border would not only be devastating to the local flora and fauna, it would ruin one of the most incredible parcels of public land in the Lone Star State.

The park's water systems, already delicate and vital for both the local wildlife and community, would be disrupted. This degradation poses a risk to our natural resources, affecting not just the immediate environment but the far-reaching ecosystems relying on this vital water source. Construction alone would result in trash and erosion impacts to the Rio Grande.

Tourism, a linchpin for the local economy, is also at stake. Tourists are drawn to the rugged beauty and untouched/wild nature of Big Bend. A wall would not only be an eyesore but would eliminate much of the appeal that brings visitors from across the state and beyond, harming small businesses and local livelihoods that depend on this industry.

The proposal to build a wall disregards the ecological and economic significance of the park. It is crucial that public officials recognize the irreversible damage such a project would impose. We must advocate for sustainable solutions that protect our landscapes, support diverse ecosystems, and respect the community's reliance on tourism.

I urge you to join me in sending a clear message to decision-makers: Protect West Texas. Preserve Big Bend Ranch State Park and Big Bend National Park. Sign this petition to oppose the construction of the wall and stand for the future of our environment, wildlife, and local communities.

https://www.no-al-muro.com/links

** Please note that any donations made through the petition platform (Change.org) do not get dispersed to local efforts and are used solely by Change.org to market the petition on their platform(s).**