1 day Ago By Jacob Smith
South County residents have a new digital tool for tracking beach water quality, sewage odor, and hydrogen sulfide levels in their community, thanks to a comprehensive interactive dashboard that has recently gone live. This online platform results from a collaborative effort by the County and UC San Diego’s Resilient Shield project, drawing in various data sources to offer a one-stop overview of environmental conditions affecting the South Bay areas.The dashboard provides up-to-the-minute information on beach water closures, sewage spill incidents, and air quality concerns, particularly surrounding the odorous hydrogen sulfide emissions in nearby communities.
By compiling data from the County, San Diego Air Pollution Control District (SDAPCD), the U.S. Section of the International Boundary and Water Commission, and even emergency department surveillance, residents can make informed decisions before visiting South Bay or engaging in activities.
Notably, the initiative aims to support communities routinely impacted by sewage pollution from the Tijuana River Valley.Highlights of this environmental tool include sections titled "What We Know," "What We’re Doing," and "What You Can Do," plus links to sources for those looking to delve deeper into specific environmental concerns. Dr.
Ankita Kadakia, the County's interim public health officer, emphasized the importance of this new dashboard, stating, “This new dashboard reaffirms our commitment to the South Bay communities most impacted by the sewage pollution by providing pertinent information all in one place that they can take action on or be informed about,” as per the County of San Diego..
