Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff Pool photo WASHINGTON  The Homeland Security Department used its legal authority Tuesday to waive environmental and land management laws, so it can complete 670 miles of fence along the U.S.-Mexican border. The waivers will allow the department to move ahead with miles of pedestrian and vehicle fence construction as well as roads and detection systems. Homeland Security, under orders from Congress to build the fence, has run into intense opposition along the border from land owners, ranchers and environmentalists. Many didn't want their land taken or for wildlife and rare species to be disturbed. "Criminal activity at the border does not stop for endless debate or protracted litigation," Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff said. " The waivers will enable important security projects to keep moving forward." The waivers apply to sections of the border in California, Arizona, New Mexico and Texas. They allow Homeland Security to skip required studies of how its construction projects would affect areas with fragile environments, protected wildlife or historic value. Although Congress gave Homeland Security the authority to waive the laws, some members were furious. "Today's waiver represents an extreme abuse of authority," House Homeland Security Committee Chairman Bennie Thompson, D-Miss., said. "Waiver authority should only be used as a last resort." Environmental groups also expressed alarm. "The DHS decision … will jeopardize the economy, quality of life and beauty of South Texas," National Audubon Society President John Flicker said. It is not the first time Homeland Security has used waivers. In 2005, it waived environmental restrictions to build a section of fence in San Diego. In 2007, it issued two waivers in southern Arizona. In a statement, Homeland Security said it "remains deeply committed to environmental responsibility" and will make every effort to "ensure impacts to the environment, wildlife and cultural and historic artifacts are analyzed and minimized." Guidelines: You share in the USA TODAY community, so please keep your comments smart and civil. Don't attack other readers personally, and keep your language decent. Use the "Report Abuse" button to make a difference. You share in the USA TODAY community, so please keep your comments smart and civil. Don't attack other readers personally, and keep your language decent. Use the "Report Abuse" button to make a difference. Read more