The Department of Homeland Security wants America to help keep an eye on the country's Southwest Border, and they're using online social networking media to do it. 

DHS has launched a social network called Our Border as a way to engage citizens and foster dialogue on border-security issues. The site is not only a clearinghouse for official Homeland Security information, but it also provides a platform for citizens to speak up.

Ourborder.ning.com actually encourages users to blog, chat, post photos and get engaged on border-security issues. The results: 800 plus members from across the U.S. and across the border engaging in civil dialogue.

The site's Getting Started section explains:

"Our Border is a groundbreaking online civic networking tool that brings together experts, professionals, the American public and DHS officials to talk about the Southwest Border. Some of the most critical issues today - immigration, commerce, trade, tourism, national security, public health - are connected to the Southwest Border."

The Office of International Affairs within DHS introduced the idea of using a "civic network" in August 2009.

Active discussion boards, now featuring civil discourse

Anyone can view and become a member of Our Border, hosted by the Ning.com social networking platform. To become a member of the DHS site, individuals must first become a member of Ning.com, which requires certain personal information.  Once a member, you can use forums to discuss Southwest Border issues, create a blog, read the latest news from the DHS about the Southwest Border, post videos and photos, join groups focused on specific issues, and create and organize events.

Members who prove to be most active and helpful may get recognized as "Outstanding Participant of the Week," which singles out your profile so others can easily read about your accomplishments.  Other members who wish to be recognized can also participate in a discussion forum located on the front page entitled, "Introduce Yourself."

Whether you want to view a map of the Southwest Border fence, listen to a message from Secretary Napolitano, or join the Chihuahua Group, there's plenty of activity on Our Border to keep you entertained and informed for hours.  To get started, go to http://ourborder.ning.com/ and customize your profile.