Calexico New River Committee

Why not clean the river instead of enclosing it? Millions of dollars have been spent over the years in an effort to clean the river at the source of the problem, but the river is still extremely polluted. To clean the river after it enters the United States will still require enclosing the river to the point where it can be cleaned. The goals of the New River Committee will not interfere with future efforts to clean the river.

Why enclose the river so far north? The goals of the New River Committee include enclosing the river in such a way as to remove the negative impact on the city of Calexico and its residents.

How will this affect the quality of the water? The project includes a proposal to install wetlands at the end of the enclosure to allow natural processes to clean and aerate the water. The wetlands will leave the water down stream of the project cleaner than before the project was done.

How will this project affect wildlife in the area? The water is so polluted that there is no significant use by wildlife in the Calexico area.

How will this project impact the Salton Sea? The water arriving at the Salton Sea will be of higher quality than before the project was completed.

What benefits will the City of Calexico receive from enclosing the river? Calexico residents will no longer have to endure the smell of the river, and will not have to fear that their children will come into contact with the river’s pollutants. Trash floating down the river will be removed at the border and not collect in unsightly ponds. Illegal migrants will not float into the U.S. in the river and migrant smugglers will not use the neighborhoods as staging areas for their illegal activity. Economic development of the area surrounding the river will be possible. Parks and jogging paths are planned for much of the area where the river now flows.

How can I support this project? Contact your representatives to ask for their support in obtaining funding for completion of the project. They can be reached by clicking on the following link. > Contact your Representative