‘Devastating’: bulldozers plough through Big Bend national park as Trump’s border work pushes ahead
Summary
Bulldozers have started clearing land in Big Bend National Park, Texas, as part of President Trump’s expanded border security construction. The work is focused on building roads and barriers along the US-Mexico border in a scenic and protected area, despite opposition from local groups and officials.Key Facts
- Bulldozers began work at Santa Elena Canyon, a popular spot in Big Bend National Park.
- The construction is part of a new “smart wall” initiative funded by a $46.5 billion border security bill signed by President Trump in 2023.
- Big Bend National Park covers 800,000 acres and has seen very few illegal border crossings in recent years.
- Border patrol agents made about 100-125 arrests annually in the park area before President Trump’s immigration crackdown started in 2025.
- The original plan to build a 30-foot steel wall was changed to more limited barriers and patrol roads after public backlash.
- The Department of Homeland Security waived many environmental and cultural protection laws to speed up the construction.
- Customs and Border Protection (CBP) initially denied and then confirmed bulldozer activity linked to soil assessment and construction preparation.
- CBP Commissioner Rodney Scott said the barriers and roads are needed to reduce cartel-related fear in the park area.
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