A new issue has emerged along the California-Mexico border, where millions of gallons of raw sewage from Mexico have been flowing into California daily through an area known as “Goat Canyon.” According to the International Boundary and Water Commission (IBWC), approximately one million gallons of polluted water have been entering the Tijuana River Valley each day. This is in addition to the normal amount of sewage that flows from Mexico.
Imperial Beach Mayor Paloma Aguirre explained that a treatment plant in Tijuana, which is undergoing renovations, has been releasing contaminated water into the river while the work is being done. This issue is part of several projects aimed at reducing sewage flows in the area.
The IBWC has emphasized its efforts to push Mexico to complete these projects as quickly as possible and minimize diversions of flow to the Tijuana River. According to estimates from Mexico, the project is expected to be completed by September.
However, a broken-down sewage pump station north of the border is also contributing to the problem. This facility typically takes in contaminated water and pumps it to the International Wastewater Treatment Plant for cleaning. A completion date for this work has not been publicly announced.
As a result of these issues, sewage-tainted water is flowing into the Pacific Ocean through Goat Canyon, which is about half a mile from the ocean. This has led to beach closures in Imperial Beach and other nearby areas. Additionally, the main road at Border Field State Park is flooded due to the sewage overflow, forcing the park’s closure to visitors.
The Tijuana River has been ranked among the top 10 most endangered rivers in America, making this issue a significant concern for local residents and authorities. The ongoing situation highlights the need for prompt action to address these environmental and public health concerns.
Source: Border Report
