May 23, 2013
Rep. Vargas Introduces Resolution Supporting Binational Efforts to Reduce Tijuana River Valley Pollution
Washington, DC (May 23, 2013) –Today, Rep. Juan Vargas (CA-51) sponsored a resolution recognizing the importance of the United States International Boundary Water Commission (USIBWC) and its recent efforts to address trash, sediment, and water quality issues with its Mexican counterpart, Comisión Internacional de Límites y Aguas (CILA). The work of the USIBWC and CILA is expected to result in a proposed minute to the Water Treaty of 1944.
“The current efforts by the USIBWC and CILA to draft a treaty minute addressing the problems of cross border trash and sediment flows in the watershed are of vital importance and must be supported,” said Rep. Vargas. “Not only does the pollution impact the quality of life of Southern San Diego County residents, but it also effects the operations and safety of the U.S. Navy and Border Patrol personnel in the Tijuana River Valley region.”
The cross border flow of trash, sediment and sewage presents an ongoing pollution problem resulting in the flooding of public and private properties, sedimentation and loss of habitat, and lengthy beach closures along the shoreline. The minute currently being developed by the USIBWC would address a variety of issues including, but not limited to, implementing optimal, watershed-based solutions, reducing sources of sediment and trash, installing sediment and trash capture devices in the watershed, and funding and performing ongoing operations and maintenance.
“The entire California-Mexico border resides in my district and as such, I understand the importance of the U.S. and Mexico working together to protect transnational watersheds and improve the health and safety of those who live in the Tijuana River Valley region,” said Rep. Vargas. “I appreciate the commitment and dedication that the USIBWC and CILA have shown in working to reduce the pollution that affects our border region.”
Vargas represents California’s 51st Congressional District which includes the southern portion of San Diego County, all of Imperial County and California’s entire US/Mexico border. Vargas is currently serving his first term in Congress. He represented the 40th California State Senate District from 2010-2012, the 79th California State Assembly District from 2000 – 2006 and served on the San Diego City Council from 1993 – 2000.
