http://www.kswo.com/Global/story.asp?S=5762064

U.S. officials concerned about berm on Mexican side of border

COLUMBUS, N.M. American officials are concerned about a mile-long earthen berm constructed on the Mexican side of the border, apparently in response to flooding in Palomas, Mexico, in August.

The bulldozer-built berm, about four feet tall and erected about a month ago, stretches eastward from the port of entry at Columbus, New Mexico. It has pushed over fences that divide the two nations and partially buried a cement border monument.

The berm also has provided cover for people on the Mexican side who pelted U-S Border Patrol agents with rocks. American officials are troubled that the berm was put up without any consultation or planning with the U-S side.

A binational group is scheduled to meet Monday in Columbus to discuss what should be done about the berm.

A public affairs officer for the U-S section of the International Boundary and Water Commission in El Paso, Texas, says -- quote -- "We really want to try to meet in an amicable fashion to try to identify a solution."