Public Invited to Weigh In on Controversial Border Patrol Road Through Sacred Land Near Nogales

The public has until December 9 to submit comments regarding a proposed road construction project by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) in the Coronado National Forest near Nogales, Arizona. The Holden Canyon Connector Road Project aims to improve nearly 13 miles of unpaved roads while decommissioning approximately 4 miles in Pima and Santa Cruz counties.

Last year, the agency asked for public input, but this time, a draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) is available for review. Interested parties can access the draft via the CBP’s website, along with physical copies located at libraries in Arivaca and Nogales.

Officials have indicated that the project’s environmental impact is minimal. They assert that any potential adverse effects, including on wildlife like the northern jaguar and ocelot, can be largely mitigated through established best management practices. Notably, the road construction is projected to have no negative impact on the endangered Sonoran pronghorn.

The construction may alter habitats, but officials believe the overall ecological footprint can be managed. The project includes plans to close 18 unimproved road segments, which could benefit wildlife by reducing habitat disturbance and increasing opportunities for quiet recreation.

Despite these assurances, the project raises questions about compliance with federal environmental laws. The Secretary of Homeland Security possesses the authority to waive certain regulations under a 2005 act, which has been used frequently in the past to expedite border infrastructure development.

During the previous administrations, both Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff and his successor Jeh Johnson used this authority extensively, resulting in significant construction across protected federal lands. The frequency and nature of these waivers have led to concerns about the long-term implications for ecologically sensitive areas.

The proposed road would connect areas between Holden Canyon and Warsaw Canyon, close to the U.S.-Mexico border, facilitating more efficient border patrol operations. The project also includes the construction of drainage systems and improvements to existing roadways within the Nogales Ranger District.

Officials noted the need for improved access for both border patrol activities and emergency services. Currently, agents face lengthy response times due to inadequate road infrastructure, often requiring them to trek on foot for significant distances.

Construction is anticipated to commence following the completion of the approval process and will take about six months. The Nogales District Ranger will oversee the Forest Service’s final decision on the project.

Public comments can be submitted online through a form provided by the U.S. Forest Service or by emailing holdencanyonconnectorroad@cbp.dhs.gov. Alternatively, comments can be mailed to U.S. Customs and Border Protection in Washington, D.C. The deadline for submissions is December 9.