Border Barrier on Mount Cristo Rey Triggers Environmental and Cultural Backlash

A new border wall planned by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) at Mount Cristo Rey in New Mexico is drawing criticism from environmental advocates and community leaders concerned about irreversible damage to wildlife corridors and a mountain long revered for its religious significance.

The proposed 1.3-mile, 30-foot-tall steel barrier would follow an existing patrol road and require an additional 1.5 miles of new roadway construction on the steep slopes of Mount Cristo Rey, which overlooks El Paso, Texas, and Juárez, Mexico.

“The Mount Cristo Rey area is a major smuggling route,” said Landon Hutchens, a CBP spokesperson. “The border barrier will discourage illegal border crossings.”

However, critics argue the project threatens sensitive desert ecosystems. “Putting in a physical barrier will disconnect biological processes,” said environmental advocate Ray Aguilar. “The Sierra de Juárez is going to be completely isolated from the exchange of species.”

CBP's plan was fast-tracked by Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, who issued environmental waivers in early June, lifting protections under federal laws such as the National Environmental Policy Act and the Endangered Species Act. The agency is currently accepting public comments on the Mount Cristo Rey section through July 3.

Wildlife experts fear lasting impacts. “If Mexican wolves were ever to try and come here again they would not be able to make it through,” said Rick LoBello of the Texas Lobo Coalition. He noted a documented case from 2017 when a Mexican wolf crossed the region during migration. “The goal of the Mexican wolf recovery program is for animals to be able to go back and forth to maintain the highest possible genetic diversity.”

Concerns also include increased flooding risks due to the disruption of natural water flow on the mountain’s steep terrain. CBP has proposed installing manually operated floodgates and additional erosion control systems. Still, Erick Meza of the Sierra Club worries about the long-term environmental scars. “The environmental waivers give the agency free reign to do whatever they want in regards to the environment,” he said.

Beyond environmental risks, the construction threatens a site of deep cultural and spiritual value. Mount Cristo Rey, owned by the Catholic Diocese of Las Cruces, attracts pilgrims from across the border to its summit, where a 29-foot limestone statue of Jesus stands.

Ruben Escandon of the Mount Cristo Rey Restoration Committee said he only recently learned of the plans. While he supports protecting the site, others fear that the barrier will undermine the peaceful spiritual tradition. Mountain bikers and local hikers also use the trail year-round.

CBP has not disclosed details regarding easements or agreements with the Diocese and declined to comment on the waivers. “These are critical steps to secure the southern border and reinforce our commitment to border security,” DHS said in its statement.

Historical & Religious Significance at Risk

‍Mount Cristo Rey isn't just a geographic feature; it is a spiritual and cultural landmark for border communities. Twice a year, thousands of pilgrims ascend its path to pray and reflect. The border wall’s presence could fundamentally alter the pilgrimage experience and cut access to sacred land.

Ecological Corridor Could Be Severed

‍Environmentalists argue that Mount Cristo Rey is a key passage for animals moving between the Sierra de Juárez and Franklin Mountains. The wall would not only block large mammals but could impact smaller species due to increased vehicular access and habitat fragmentation.

Public Comment Period Ending Soon

‍CBP is currently accepting feedback on the Cristo Rey section until July 3, giving advocates little time to respond. Environmental organizations have urged citizens to submit objections and are rallying public support to delay or reroute the construction.

Policy Precedent and Accountability

‍Critics warn that waiving environmental laws without community input sets a dangerous precedent. The practice of sidestepping major protections, they say, limits oversight and avoids the legal scrutiny that normally governs federally funded infrastructure projects.

What’s Next?

‍If completed, the Mount Cristo Rey wall would fill one of the last remaining gaps in a long stretch of border fencing. CBP claims it is part of a broader effort to fortify U.S. defenses, but the outcome may be a permanent disruption to both nature and community heritage.

Originally reported by Martha Pskowski in Inside Climate News.