The city of San Diego has filed a lawsuit against the federal government seeking to halt the unauthorized construction of a border barrier topped with concertina wire on city-owned land.
The barrier is being built in Marron Valley, near the U.S.-Mexico border, on property owned by the city. San Diego officials say the installation was carried out without legal authorization and has caused significant environmental damage in an area considered ecologically sensitive and protected under existing conservation agreements.
Lawsuit targets federal agencies
The lawsuit, filed Monday, names the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, the Department of Defense, and other federal officials as defendants.
According to the city, federal personnel, including U.S. Marines, entered the property without consent and began constructing the barrier, causing what the lawsuit describes as irreparable harm to protected plant habitats, riparian areas, and vernal pools.
City officials say the fence has prevented San Diego from managing and accessing its own land and has put the city at risk of violating environmental protection agreements.
Alleged violations of conservation agreements
The lawsuit cites obligations under the Multiple Species Conservation Program and the Cornerstone Lands Conservation Bank Agreement, which are designed to protect sensitive habitats in the area.
City Attorney Heather Ferbert said San Diego would not allow federal agencies to disregard the law or damage municipal property.
“We are taking decisive action to protect sensitive habitats, uphold our environmental commitments, and ensure that the rights and resources of our community are respected,” Ferbert said.
The city is seeking immediate relief to prevent further damage and to enforce conservation commitments and access rights tied to the land.
