Archaeology Southwest is asking the public to respond to two preservation issues: a proposed border infrastructure project in the Lower Pecos Canyonlands and a national effort to protect Section 106 review requirements.
The organization says the U.S. Customs and Border Protection project involves more than a vehicle barrier. According to its description, construction could include patrol and maintenance roads measuring up to 24 feet wide, access roads, bridges, drainage structures, underground fiber-optic and power cables, utility poles, surveillance cameras, utility shelters, staging areas and continuing maintenance.
The proposed alignment would pass through the Lower Pecos Canyonlands Archaeological District, which was designated a National Historic Landmark in 2021, and would bisect Seminole Canyon State Park and Historic Site, according to Archaeology Southwest. The organization says the district contains Pecos River Style murals produced over more than 4,000 years, beginning roughly 5,700 years ago.
On July 27, 2026, the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security issued a waiver covering certain laws, regulations and other legal requirements to accelerate construction of barriers and roads near the international land border in Texas. CBP is seeking comments on possible effects on the environment, cultural resources, quality of life and commerce, including socioeconomic impacts.
Comments may be sent to BigBendComments@cbp.dhs.gov with “Big Bend Vehicle Border Barrier System Construction” in the subject line. The agency says submissions, including commenters’ names and addresses, will become part of the public record.
Archaeology Southwest is also highlighting an open letter delivered to Congress by a coalition of more than 600 Tribal Nations, preservation and conservation organizations, professional associations, businesses, museums, historical societies and state and local groups. The coalition’s message is that Section 106 review works and should be protected, strengthened and expanded after six decades of use.
The group is encouraging supporters to contact their representatives. The coalition is also seeking additional signatories and asking people to report instances in which they believe federal agencies are cutting corners in Section 106 reviews.
