The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently announced a holistic approach to address water pollution from the Tijuana River watershed.
Radhika Fox, the EPA assistant administrator for water, said the decision was made to move forward with the environmental review of a number of water infrastructure projects that, pending final selection, will address trans-border water pollution.
“In order to protect public health and vital ecosystems in this vibrant area, we need a bold solution to the transboundary water pollution challenge,” she said in a news release. “We’re announcing our intent to pursue a holistic water infrastructure strategy to address multiple facets of this challenge and make real progress for the future of the San Diego region.”
This action will lead to essential public health protections for San Diego County communities, she added.
The organization is studying a series of projects that have the potential to stem trans-border pollution and improve water quality as well.
“Pollution along the Tijuana River Valley has plagued our region for years, harming our environment, public health, and our local economy. It’s long past time we stop the flow of this pollution from Mexico for good,” said U.S. Rep. Mike Levin (D-Calif.). “I commend the EPA for advancing an aggressive and comprehensive solution to this crisis. Now it’s paramount that we move forward as quickly as possible to break ground on this project. I’ll continue to work with my colleagues to ensure the EPA has the resources it needs to finish the job.”
Fox said she expects this new approach will make real progress in the San Diego region. The Tijuana River carries untreated wastewater and trash, as well as other pollutants from Mexico across the border into the U.S.
