EPA chief demands Mexico address Tijuana sewage crisis

The head of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Lee Zeldin, criticized Mexico for ongoing sewage pollution from the Tijuana River affecting San Diego. He called for Mexico to fulfill its commitments to control this pollution, which has led to over 1,000 days of beach closures. On March 9, a flow of wastewater from Tijuana was reported entering the U.S. due to construction issues with a wastewater pipe replacement project. The U.S. Section of the International Boundary and Water Commission is in regular contact with Mexican officials to address these problems and prevent future incidents. California leaders are seeking federal funding and cooperation from Mexico to resolve the sewage crisis. Zeldin has agreed to review a previous denial for a Superfund designation for the Tijuana River Valley, which could help secure resources for cleanup efforts.