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Trump Halts New Mexico Well Drilling Over Unpermitted Sites

8/4/2026

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Summary

Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump ordered contractors to stop drilling new wells in New Mexico, and Customs and Border Protection required the halt.
The New Mexico State Engineer reported eight unpermitted wells and said all non-tribal wells need state permits.
Rancher Russell Johnson warned a well could pump 300 gallons per minute, cutting his herd to one-third.

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Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump ordered contractors to stop drilling new wells in New Mexico, and Customs and Border Protection required the halt.
The New Mexico State Engineer reported eight unpermitted wells and said all non-tribal wells need state permits.
Rancher Russell Johnson warned a well could pump 300 gallons per minute, cutting his herd to one-third.