NewsWPLG Local 10 – Main FeedAugust 3, 2026Miami-Dade
Trump administration orders border wall contractors to stop drilling water wells in New Mexico
The federal government has directed construction crews building the border wall to cease drilling groundwater wells in New Mexico. This order follows complaints from local ranchers that the water extraction required for concrete production could deplete resources needed for their livestock.
Read the full story at WPLG Local 10 – Main FeedWhy It Matters
The decision directly impacts the water supply available to local ranchers in drought-stricken areas of New Mexico by halting industrial-scale pumping for border wall construction.
Key Facts
- The Trump administration issued a stop-work order for all well-drilling activities related to border wall construction in New Mexico.
- The primary reason for the order is the potential impact on groundwater levels needed by local ranchers for livestock.
- The water being extracted was intended for use in the production of concrete for the border wall.
- The region in question is currently experiencing drought conditions.
Who's Mentioned
locationPhoenix“Dateline location of the news report.”organizationNew Mexico Office of the State Engineer“State agency monitoring and permitting water wells”personRussell Johnson“Local cattle rancher affected by water usage”organizationTrump administration“The federal executive body issuing the order.”organizationU.S. Customs and Border Protection“Federal agency overseeing border wall construction”personGreg Cunningham“Congressional candidate”organizationFisher Industries“Contractor building the border wall”locationNew Mexico“The state where the construction and water drilling are occurring.”personGabe Vasquez“Congressman”organizationAP“The news agency reporting the event.”organizationCaddell Construction Co.“Contractor building the border wall”personDonald Trump“President during the administration ordering the halt”