TJ RIVER RECOVERY TEAM

In the fall of 2008, OpenOceans Global began working with the San Diego Regional Water Quality Board to develop a consensus-based process to restore the Tijuana River Valley. The collaboration brought together more than thirty federal, state and local agencies from both the United States and Mexico. Projects identified included assessments of how much trash and sediment have accumulated in the valley and where those accumulations are located, conducting a study to determine if sediment in the valley is suitable for beach replenishment, clearing out a clogged channel to reduce risk of flooding, and other important work.

The premises of the Recovery Team were simple:

• If we can stop new trash and unwanted sediment before it reaches the valley, then we can successfully clean up the valley.

• If we successfully clean up the valley, then we can successfully restore its hydrology and natural values.

• If we can restore its hydrology and natural values, then we can successfully address the remaining water quality issues.

On February 8, 2012, the San Diego Regional Water Quality Control Board thanked OpenOceans Global for its nearly four years of work with a resolution of appreciation for contribution to, and leadership of, the Tijuana River Valley Recovery Team.

Thank You Sempra Energy Foundation!

OpenOceans Global’s work on the Tijuana River Valley Recovery Team was funded in part by the Sempra Energy Foundation. The Sempra group awarded OpenOceans Global a $50,000 Environmental Champions Grant to continue its work in the valley.