In July, Rep. Mike Conaway (TX-11) introduced an amendment to the Homeland Security Appropriations bill to aid the border patrol in interdicting illegal immigrants trying to enter the U.S. illegally. The amendment would provide the border patrol with $5 million dollars to eradicate the tactical cover that runs along the banks of the Rio Grande River on the Texas-Mexico border. This amendment was included in the omnibus appropriations bill that passed through the U.S. House of Representatives last night.
“In talking with border patrol agents on our southern border, they expressed a concern regarding the problems they had experienced with people using the tall weeds along the river as cover while attempting to sneak across the border,” said Conaway. “By creating a pilot program for the Border Patrol to use to eradicate invasive species of weeds, our agents will be safer and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV’s) and cameras will be more effective in stemming the tide of illegal immigrants crossing our border.”
The Texas-Mexico border along the Rio Grande River is inundated with free-growing, large weeds such as Russian Olive, Salt Cedar and Carrizo Cane. The weeds can grow to be 10-15 feet in height and provide excellent cover for anyone attempting to enter the U.S. illegally.
Conaway went on to say, “This amendment also brings up the issue of conservation. The weeds along the river use up to 200 gallons of water every day. If the weeds were removed, the Rio Grande would be stronger and harder to cross. I am confident that this pilot program will serve as a key tool as our Border Patrol agents work to interdict every person who attempts to come into this country illegally. I am pleased that my colleagues recognize the importance of this amendment”
