The Tijuana River Valley

The Tijuana River Valley sewage crisis demonstrates why environmental accountability must include both environmental protection and community protection.

For decades, untreated sewage, contaminated stormwater, trash, and industrial pollution have crossed into the United States through the Tijuana River watershed. Government agencies acknowledge that these contaminated flows have harmed water quality, public health, the environment, beaches, and surrounding South Bay communities.

Residents have endured foul odors, beach closures, concerns about exposure, reduced quality of life, and uncertainty about long-term health effects. San Diego County has conducted public-health assessments and maintains resources specifically addressing community concerns related to sewage and pollution in the Tijuana River Valley.

Although federal, state, local, and Mexican agencies are now funding and implementing major infrastructure projects, the crisis developed over decades and communities waited far too long for an adequate response. Current efforts include expansion of the South Bay International Wastewater Treatment Plant, sewage-interception projects, monitoring, and additional cross-border infrastructure improvements.