Andy Biggs: “The issue that I bring forward is a longstanding issue. A 2004 review by GAO discusses issues at the Barry M. Goldwater…”

“The issue that I bring forward is a longstanding issue. A 2004 review by GAO discusses issues at the Barry M. Goldwater Range at Luke Air Force Base in Arizona, where officials reported that nearly 10 percent of the F-16 training exercises were canceled due to the presence of an endangered species on the training range impact area. That doesn't include the long-range missile testing that now has to be canceled and rescheduled on a regular basis. Nearly 80 percent of Marine Corps Aviation units train at the Goldwater Range before deployment. The range provides the space and infrastructure for marines to receive this critical tactical aviation training, air-to-ground and air-to-air. Maybe DOD hasn't asked for it, but my colleagues should go out to the Barry M. Goldwater Range area. If my colleagues are so doggone concerned about biodiversity, they should get their tails down to the border to take a look at the Cabeza Prieta National Wildlife Refuge. Look at the garbage that has come through because of the illegal aliens and the trash that is there. It is tons. The biodiversity that has been impacted there is incalculable. They have cut roads through this otherwise pristine desert that sits right next to the Barry M. Goldwater Range. We have the animals that are driven through. We have the individuals. If biologists determine that a Sonoran pronghorn may be present within 3 miles of training range impact areas, missions are redirected or canceled.…”