The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has provided its official testimony on three bills regarding Southern border security on National Forest System lands. The testimony was presented before the United States House Committee on Natural Resources Subcommittee on Federal Lands.
One of the bills discussed in the testimony is the "Ensuring Border Access and Protection on Federal Land Act," which aims to enhance security along the southern border. The USDA expressed significant concerns about this draft legislation, particularly regarding the construction of roads on federal lands along the U.S.-Mexico border to prevent illegal crossings. The USDA stated that implementing this bill would require substantial resources, including an initial investment of over $40-$60 million and annual maintenance costs of $240,000-$280,000. While the Forest Service already manages approximately 22 miles of road along the Coronado National Forest and the Mexico border, constructing and reconstructing 45 to 55 miles of roads in challenging terrain would be necessary to fully comply with the legislation.
Another bill discussed in the testimony is H.R. 5283, also known as the "Protecting Our Communities from Failure to Secure the Border Act of 2023." This bill seeks to prevent certain federal land management agencies, including the Forest Service, from providing federal funds that might be used to house certain noncitizens on their administrative jurisdiction lands. However, the USDA does not believe this bill is necessary and does not support it. The agency stated that this legislation would not change its current land management practices.
The "TRASHED Border Act" was also addressed in the USDA's testimony. This bill addresses concerns related to waste deposition, illegal camping, and encroachment, particularly on the Coronado National Forest, which shares a border with Mexico. The USDA shares these concerns but believes that existing regulations already provide the authorities to address environmental degradation caused by certain noncitizens on National Forest System lands. The agency also mentioned that it is challenging to determine whether damages are caused by citizens or noncitizens and defers to the U.S. Department of Justice regarding proposed fines and penalties.
Overall, the USDA has outlined its stance on these Southern border security bills affecting National Forest System lands in its official testimony. The agency expressed concerns about the implementation of certain provisions and stated its support or opposition to each bill based on its assessment of their necessity and potential impact on land management practices.
