NEW: On April 28, 2017, the Service met with representatives (including
their legal counsel) from No More Deaths. They reiterated their position that
they intend to continue putting out water, food, and clothing for illegal
border crossers (IBCs) for humanitarian purposes, on not only the refuge, but
surrounding federal lands as well. Their purpose is to save lives and claim
that putting out food and clothing in addition to water is consistent with Red
Cross protocol. They also requested the use of administrative trails in
designated wilderness to improve their access and ability to achieve their
mission which not only includes putting out humanitarian aid but also to
conduct search and rescue operations as well as search for human remains.
They were reminded that there were already governmental entities that
perform search and rescue operations. The No More Deaths representatives
also indicated that they felt they should be able to drive off road when
necessary to perform search and rescue operations, including in designated
wilderness. In the end, they basically stated that they will do what they
have to do and if we issue them citations, so be it. They also stated that
they intend to request the Assistant U.S. Attorney’s Office in Tucson to
facilitate a meeting with them and federal land management agencies to
reach some accommodation. The Service is opposed to putting out water,
food, and clothing as it not only results in a large amount of trash being
deposited but also could put IBCs in additional harm’s way as they continue
their journey. Because most of the IBCs on the refuge are narcotic
smugglers, the Service also has concerns of how humanitarian support could
have an effect on such activity. The Service prefers the installation of more
rescue beacons by Border Patrol in lieu of the humanitarian aid as these
installations saves lives while not providing sustenance for smugglers to
continue their journey.