Unauthorized Wells Near Border Wall | Santa Fe News

Two drilling companies are facing major penalties after drilling unauthorized water wells near the border wall in New Mexico, sparking outrage from local ranchers and state regulators. The State Engineer’s office accuses Wyatt Drilling Arizona and Cascade Drilling LP of operating without permits across multiple water basins, risking contamination and disrupting vital water supplies for families and farmers. Despite claims of inspection roadblocks, officials insist no one is above the law—even on federal land. Customs and Border Protection has now paused new well projects and pledged to work with landowners to protect water access. Companies have 30 days to submit remediation plans or risk losing their drilling licenses and daily fines. This case underscores New Mexico’s firm stance: water rights aren’t negotiable, no matter the project. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/7fbeaf7e4a8c96b8