Debevoise & Plimpton LLP is representing the North American Butterfly Association (“NABA”) in its suit against the Department of Homeland Security. The lawsuit demands that the Trump administration conduct federally required environmental assessments, and follow legal due process before attempting to build a border wall through the 100-acre nature and wildlife sanctuary in South Texas.

In its 20-page complaint filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia, NABA said construction of the proposed wall along the southern border would cut off two-thirds of its property, effectively destroying the Butterfly Center.

NABA owns and operates the National Butterfly Center (“NBC”), a 100-acre conservation, education and research center in Mission, Texas. NABA has transformed what was an agricultural field, when acquired by NABA in 2002, into the largest botanical garden in the United States focused on using native plants in a garden setting. More than 220 species of wild butterflies have now been seen at the NBC.

The Debevoise team is led by partner Daniel M. Abuhoff, counsel and managing attorney Timothy K. Beeken, associates David A. Donatti and Harry Zirlin and law clerk Rhianna Hoover.

Debevoise & Plimpton LLP is a premier law firm with market-leading practices, a global perspective and strong New York roots. We deliver effective solutions to our clients’ most important legal challenges, applying clear commercial judgment and a distinctively collaborative approach.