YUMA COUNTY, AZ (AZFamily) — A National Defense Area has been created in Yuma County as part of efforts to secure the southern border. The restricted zone covers about 32 miles of remote desert near the Cabeza Prieta National Wildlife Refuge and the Barry M. Goldwater Range .

Border Patrol officials say military crews have placed more than 300 signs to mark the boundary and warn the public that entry is not allowed.

The designation grants soldiers the authority to detain individuals who cross the border illegally until Border Patrol agents arrive on the scene. It also applies to anyone who trespasses in the zone, including hikers or recreationists who wander too close.

The Yuma site is the fourth defense zone established along the border under the Trump administration . Similar a

See Full Page