Calexico officials seek funds to combat Nuevo River pollution

Authorities in Calexico are seeking increased financial resources to combat bacterial contamination in the Nuevo River, which has impacted the health of residents in Imperial County. The issue has been elevated to a binational agenda involving the International Boundary and Water Commission.

Calexico City Manager Benjamin Martinez noted that operation and maintenance costs have exceeded initial projections. While a project involving pumping systems and trash grates was implemented last year using state funds, the city remains responsible for its upkeep. Officials highlighted that a lack of cleaning on the Mexican side of the border contributes to trash flowing into the United States, complicating mitigation efforts and necessitating more personnel and funding.