Survey Opens to Measure Economic Impact of Tijuana River Valley Pollution
People who work, live, visit, own businesses or are part of community organizations near the Tijuana River Valley are invited to take a survey measuring the economic impacts of the ongoing sewage pollution. The findings will help guide future funding and long-term solutions.
The survey is part of the Tijuana River Sewage Crisis Economic Impact Study, which is examining how sewage contamination, beach closures and overall pollution have affected the region over time.
This includes impacts to local businesses, jobs, tourism, property values, schools, public costs and community wellbeing.
The goal is to build a clear, evidence-based picture of what this crisis has cost the region, especially the families and communities who live with the effects every day.
Why Your Input Matters
Qualitative data alone cannot capture the full human and community impact of this crisis. The study combines data with real-world experiences, making community participation essential.
The study includes several research components:
- Literature and data reviews
- Interviews and surveys capturing local insights and lived experience
- Economic models to calculate losses
The analysis will look at:
- Access to parks, beaches and recreational activities
- Business and economic development impacts
- Tourism, visitation and regional reputation
- Property value and tax revenue changes
- Employment and labor trends
- School attendance and enrollment impacts
The community impact survey takes between 5 to 20 minutes to complete. Versions vary for residents, business owners, visitors or community organizations.
Surveys will remain open for at least four weeks, and findings will be published in fall 2026.
For more information about pollution in the Tijuana River Valley, South County beach water and recommended health guidelines, visit the County’s dedicated Tijuana River Valley & Beach Water Sewage Crisis webpage.