This week, local and federal officials celebrated the installation of a floating trash boom in the U.S. portion of the Tijuana River—a crucial step in addressing the region’s pollution crisis. Funded by a $4.7 million federal grant, the snake-like boom is designed to collect debris during storms, protecting sensitive ecosystems and reducing pollution downstream.
Key Highlights:
1. Adaptive Design: The boom, developed by Oscar Romo and his team at Alta Terra, adjusts to the river valley’s changing topography, with ongoing drone mapping and 3D imaging providing crucial insights before, during, and after storms.
2. Real-Time Monitoring: Lab scanners capture images every 30 minutes, enabling Romo’s team to condense months of storm data into actionable insights for future improvements.
3. Binational Cooperation: The project complements broader efforts, including the expansion of the South Bay International Wastewater Treatment Plant, which will double its capacity to reduce contaminated flows into the river.
“This is a last resort, but a vital one,” said Romo. Officials, including Suzanne Anarde of the Rural Community Assistance Corporation, emphasized the boom’s role in capturing trash before it reaches the ocean, marking a significant milestone in binational efforts to protect the Tijuana River Valley ecosystem.
With its pilot phase underway, the boom will be evaluated over two years to optimize its performance and bolster future environmental solutions.