The Presidio City Council on Tuesday unanimously approved a resolution opposing the potential construction of a physical border wall in the Big Bend region, citing concerns over environmental damage, economic disruption and impacts to local communities.
The measure, Resolution 2026-03R, expresses “grave concern” about federal plans that could include wall construction across parts of Presidio County and the surrounding region, including areas near the Rio Grande, Big Bend Ranch State Park and the planned Chinati Mountains State Natural Area.
City leaders emphasized the region’s ecological and cultural significance, noting its international recognition for natural beauty, dark skies and outdoor recreation. The resolution highlights the importance of the Rio Grande as both an environmental resource and a shared cultural and economic lifeline for communities on both sides of the border, including Presidio and Ojinaga, Mexico.
The council warned that a physical barrier could harm tourism, restrict access to the river and disrupt recreation activities such as rafting and kayaking. It also raised concerns about impacts to wildlife corridors, fragile desert ecosystems and the broader regional economy.
In the resolution, the council urged federal officials to carefully consider environmental, cultural and economic consequences before moving forward with any construction. It also called for improved communication and coordination with local stakeholders, including municipal, county and state governments.
Additionally, the council encouraged federal agencies to explore alternatives to a physical wall that would enhance border security while preserving the region’s environmental integrity and community ties.
The resolution states that current border enforcement strategies in the Big Bend region have already contributed to historically low levels of undocumented crossings and asserts that effective security measures can be implemented without large-scale physical barriers.
Mayor John Ferguson signed the resolution following its adoption on April 7. City Administrator Pablo Rodriguez attested the document.
The resolution will be transmitted to federal and state officials, including the president, members of Congress and relevant agencies, as the city seeks to ensure local input is considered in any future border infrastructure decisions.
