C.B.P. News Release

Successful 'Operation Stonegarden' Border Support to Continue in 2009

(Friday, January 16, 2009)

Washington – The Department of Homeland Security has announced $60 million in funding for fiscal year 2009 for Operation Stonegarden. This initiative gives state, local and tribal law enforcement agencies additional funding to strengthen America’s borders. Customs and Border Protection’s Office of Border Patrol has primary responsibility for coordination of the successful initiative, which has resulted in increased safety and security in border communities.

Started in 2004, Operation Stonegarden made funds available to more than 200 agencies in areas adjacent to either the Canadian or Mexican borders to enhance their border security operations. Funds were used to support overtime, per diem costs and to purchase equipment such as night vision technology and observation equipment to enhance security operations on the border in areas in proximity to Border Patrol operations. Participation in the program does not give agencies immigration enforcement authority, but allows them to enhance their traditional law enforcement missions

Operation Stonegarden enhances border security through increased patrol activities of state, local, and tribal law enforcement in areas along the border that are vulnerable to the entry of terrorists and terrorist weapons, or in corridors known for human and narcotics smuggling.

During fiscal year 2009, eligibility for a grant from the $60 million allocated for Operation Stonegarden is not restricted to law enforcement agencies in areas near the land borders with Canada and Mexico, but includes any state, local or tribal agency with a tie to an international boundary, including coastal areas. Operation Stonegarden will continue to support U.S. border states and territories in increasing their capability to prevent, protect against, and respond to border security issues. Another benefit of Operation Stonegarden is increased coordination and collaboration among federal, state, local and tribal law enforcement agencies.

Operation Stonegarden grant awards are competitive. Applications are reviewed by a panel of federal representatives, and award amounts are determined by risk assessments and the applicant’s operational needs as addressed by the application criteria DHS announces the final award amounts to state and local border county, or equivalent local unit of government.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection is the unified border agency within the Department of Homeland Security charged with the management, control and protection of our nation's borders at and between the official ports of entry. CBP is charged with keeping terrorists and terrorist weapons out of the country while enforcing hundreds of U.S. laws.

Contacts For This News Release

CBP Public Affairs Office
Phone: (202) 344-1500

http://www.cbp.gov/xp/cgov/newsroom/new ... 2009_4.xml