The California-Mexico Border Relations Committee, faculty of UC Davis Extension, employed by the New River Technical Advisory Committee, has revealed a Strategic Plan to restore the New River, which flows from Mexicali in Mexico towards the Salton Sea in the Imperial Valley.
The New River is in highly polluted condition due to the release of industrial, agricultural, and domestic waste from both nations. Chair of the Science, Agriculture and Natural Resources Department of UC Davis Extension, Jeff Loux, who worked as a principal investigator and consultant for the plan, informed that the entire river needs to be treated, which was never done in the past. It is definitely an environmental integrity issue which has never been noticed for over five decades.
Besides causing severe ecosystem devastation, the damaged river has hindered recreational opportunities and economic growth in underprivileged communities. In accordance with California Assembly Bill 1079, the objective of the New River Improvement Project is to analyze, observe, remediate and improve the water quality in the river. The plan recognizes the developments achieved on both ends of the border from the '90s and recommends carrying out such projects. It also proposes other solutions such as trash screens and disinfection at the wetland sites and border to deal agricultural run-off.
The restoration of the water quality, river corridor and habitat conditions will help in enhancing public health and promoting a healthy ecosystem, which in turn improves community development and revives the local economy. The plan's novelty is its ability to involve all communities, agencies and stakeholders to obtain a suitable solution to restore the whole river system.
Source: http://extension.ucdavis.edu/
Disclaimer: The views expressed here are those of the author expressed in their private capacity and do not necessarily represent the views of AZoM.com Limited T/A AZoNetwork the owner and operator of this website. This disclaimer forms part of the Terms and conditions of use of this website.