Der Leader's Folly Caused Significant Environmental Damage

another gap in the wall, credit AFP

A GAO report says that Der Leader's folly, 450 miles of steel and concrete barrier on the southern boarder,  diverted water sources, interfered with the movement of protected species, and destroyed a sacred burial site in the Sonoran Desert.  The anti-environment former president and current criminal defendant and rapist made construction possible by waiving or disregarding environmental laws. Rep. Raul Grijalva (D-AZ) called the barrier a "racist political stunt" that cost taxpayers billions of dollars.  The Biden Administration paused the project when it entered office.

Remote crossings were changed from vehicle barriers to pedestrian barriers making passage for pronghorn antelope, wolves, and ocelots more difficult.  High intensity lights were also installed that interfere with wildlife's normal activities.  Contractors drained scarce groundwater in San Bernardino National Wildlife Refuse that threatened endangered fish.  Explosives were used to clear a path for a patrol road on Monument Hill in Arizona, a site traditionally used by native peoples for religious ceremonies.  Construction also exacerbated flooding during heavy rain events.  Transplanted saguaro cactus died after watering and caretaking ceased.

Remediation has begun under by the Customs and Boarder Patrol, but so far has extended only to correcting safety hazards such as removing exposed re-bar.  The agency has agreed to implement GAO recommendations. However, it said that coordination with the Interior Department and tribes is needed for environmental mitigation.