Fenced In

The constant debate about the 700 mile long fence along the Texas-Mexico border is once again taking center stage. The opposition to this very vast and very expensive fence is growing rapidly throughout the state and even the nation. Many people are opposing this fence for numerous different reasons. For instance, rancher Bill Moody has been living in this area for most of his life and adamantly expressed that building this fence is nothing but a "big expense, and a big problem." Another wealthy ranch owner, Brian O'Brien, agrees with Moody citing that "If the river doesn't keep them out, why do you think a wall will?" Not only have wealthy land owners expressed their disapproval, but they have also teamed up with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service who is also trying to prevent this project from happening. These environmental activists are angered because of the countless hours they have been putting in to restore the habitats in the Lower Rio Grande Valley National Wildlife Refuge. I think it's ironic and interesting how in this case wealthy landowners and environmental activists are taking the same opposing side to the same issue.

However, Congress proclaims that illegal immigration is increasing too rapidly and that something needs to be done immediately. Their solution is building this 700 mile long fence along the border. The fence is projected to cost between $2.1 billion and $8 billion, and maintaining the fence is estimated to cost about $49 billion over the next 25 years. I believe that immigration is definitely a major problem that we face today and should be addressed immediately, but I don't agree that building an immensely long fence is the solution. With every solution comes a loop-hole, and I believe that immigrants will still find a way into the United States somehow. Also, Congress is just predicting that this fence will be effective. Nothing has been tested and therefore no one can say whether or not this fence will actually prevent illegals from coming.

This widely debated issue will continue to stir up public opinion until it is either built or abandoned. This project will directly effect many individuals including each and every Texas citizen, so I believe that we should take a stance and fight for what we think is the proper thing to do is this situation and really think about if the outrageous cost will eventually pay off.

Full Article: http://www.star-telegram.com/state_news/story/162542.html

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