RESOLUTION 2026-03-23

A RESOLUTION OF THE PECOS COUNTY COMMISSIONERS COURT, EXPRESSING CONCERN REGARDING PROPOSED CONSTRUCTION OF A PHYSICAL BORDER WALL IN THE BIG BEND REGION AND AFFIRMING THE IMPORTANCE OF THE RIO GRANDE, BIG BEND NATIONAL PARK, AND BIG BEND RANCH STATE PARK, TO THE REGIONÕS ECONOMIC, ENVIRONMENTAL, AND CULTURAL WELL-BEING.

WHEREAS, recent public reports indicate that the federal government is considering construction of a physical border wall in areas of the Big Bend region, including portions of the Rio Grande corridor, River Road, Big Bend Ranch State Park, and Big Bend National Park; and

WHEREAS, the Big Bend region is internationally recognized for its natural beauty, ecological significance, dark skies, outdoor recreation opportunities, and cultural heritage; and

WHEREAS, Big Bend National Park and Big Bend Ranch State Park serve as major drivers of tourism, economic development, and employment for communities throughout Pecos County and the surrounding region; and

WHEREAS, Pecos County functions as a primary service and governmental hub for residents, businesses, and visitors to the Big Bend region, supporting lodging, dining, retail, medical services, transportation infrastructure, emergency services, and other essential functions that sustain tourism and outdoor recreation; and

WHEREAS, tourism associated with the Big Bend region contributes significantly to the CountyÕs local economy, tax base, business vitality, and workforce stability; and

WHEREAS, concerns have been raised that construction of a physical border wall in this area could limit public access to the Rio Grande, alter scenic viewsheds, affect wildlife migration patterns, introduce light pollution that could impact the regionÕs internationally recognized dark sky resources, and adversely affect outdoor recreation and tourism; and

WHEREAS, the Rio Grande corridor and surrounding lands are integral to the environmental integrity, cultural identity, and economic sustainability of the Big Bend region; and

WHEREAS, local tourism leaders and stakeholders have indicated that potential wall construction poses a significant risk to the regionÕs economic development efforts and visitor experience; and

WHEREAS, Pecos County recognizes the importance of effective border security while also acknowledging the need to consider local economic, environmental, and community impacts when federal infrastructure decisions are made; and

WHEREAS, local governments are uniquely positioned to understand the needs of their communities and to communicate those needs to state and federal decision-makers; and

WHEREAS, the Pecos County Commissioners Court desires to formally express its concerns and advocate for solutions that protect both national security and the long-term prosperity and environmental integrity of the Big Bend region;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE PECOS COUNTY COMMISSIONERS COURT THAT:

SECTION I. The Pecos County Commissioners Court expresses its deep concern regarding the proposed construction of a physical border wall within the Big Bend region, including areas near the Rio Grande, Big Bend National Park, and Big Bend Ranch State Park.

SECTION II. The Pecos County Commissioners Court affirms that the natural, recreational, cultural, and scenic resources of the Big Bend region are essential to the economic vitality and quality of life of Pecos County and surrounding communities.

SECTION III. The Pecos County Commissioners Court respectfully urges federal decision-makers to:

– Carefully evaluate the economic impacts to local communities dependent on tourism;

– Consider environmental, cultural, and recreational consequences;

– Preserve public access to the Rio Grande and surrounding lands where feasible;

– Protect dark sky resources and wildlife corridors; and

– Engage with local governments, tribal entities, land managers, and regional stakeholders prior to finalizing any construction plans.

SECTION IV. The Pecos County Commissioners Court supports the exploration of border security measures that are effective while minimizing adverse impacts to the environment, tourism economy, and cultural resources of the Big Bend region.

SECTION V. The County Judge is authorized to transmit this Resolution to the President of the United States, the Secretary of Homeland Security, the Texas Congressional Delegation, the Governor of Texas, relevant federal and state agencies, and other appropriate officials.

SECTION VI. This Resolution shall take effect immediately upon adoption.

PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED BY A MAJORITY VOTE OF THE PECOS COUNTY COMMISSIONERS COURT ON THIS 23rd DAY OF MARCH 2026.

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Joe Shuster, Pecos County Judge

ATTEST:

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Liz Chapman, Pecos County Clerk