Boca Chica, Texas

Defenders of Wildlife calls for a more in-depth environmental impact study (EIS) after a fire, caused by a SpaceX rocket, scorched 68 acres of protected refuge surrounding the launch site.   

Senior Texas Representative for Defenders of Wildlife, Sharon Wilcox, released the following statement in response to the recent fire:
 
“This latest fire illustrates the disastrous effects these experimental launches have on protected lands and wildlife, including rare and endangered species. These are not anomalous events. They are a regular byproduct of SpaceX launches. We need a more in-depth environmental impact study for the Boca Chica, Texas launch site before these types of activities become more frequent and the damage to the surrounding habitat and wildlife is compounded.”

Image
SpaceX publich road with wildlife crossing sign, SpaceX Launch Site
Sharon Wilcox/Defenders of Wildlife

For over 75 years, Defenders of Wildlife has remained dedicated to protecting all native animals and plants in their natural communities. With a nationwide network of nearly 2.1 million members and activists, Defenders of Wildlife is a leading advocate for innovative solutions to safeguard our wildlife for generations to come. To learn more, please visit https://defenders.org/newsroom or follow us on X @Defenders.

  

Media Contact

Senior Texas Representative

News

Image
2021.08.11 - Sheldon National Wildlife Refuge - Federal Lands Team Tour of Wildlife Refuges - Barb Buchholz.jpg
Washington, D.C.

Department of Interior’s “Emergency Declaration” Suppresses Public Input and Strips Safeguards for Endangered Species

Last night, the Trump administration announced emergency procedures to fast-track oil, gas, and mining projects on national lands. The emergency procedures remove opportunities for meaningful
Image
Andre Johnson / iStock Photo
Washington, DC

Defenders Endorses Bills to Secure a Future Against Offshore Drilling

Defenders of Wildlife today endorsed a suite of bills introduced in Congress to safeguard U.S. coastal waters against the threat of offshore oil and gas