Cross-Border
Watershed
Work
Healing land, water, and community across the U.S.–Mexico border.
Our watershed work brings together communities, scientists, cultural leaders, and policymakers to protect the Tijuana River Watershed—a shared ecosystem where environmental justice and cross-border collaboration are essential for collective wellbeing.
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One river. Two nations. Shared responsibility.
A Shared River,
A Shared Responsibility
The Tijuana River Watershed spans both the United States and Mexico, carrying water—and pollution—across political borders. For decades, cross-border sewage, debris, and stormwater have impacted public health, ecosystems, recreation, and community wellbeing.
But the river is also a place of possibility.
A place where collaboration, cultural relationships, science, and youth leadership come together. Our watershed work recognizes that environmental justice cannot be achieved on one side of the border alone. Health, safety, and resilience require a shared vision built with community at the center.
How We Show Up
in Cross-Border Spaces
Community Voice & Lived Experience
Youth and families most affected by pollution shape the priorities and solutions.
Cultural & Healing-Centered Practice
We integrate identity, story, mental health, and belonging into environmental action.
Science & Systems Thinking
We bring technical knowledge together with cultural and emotional wisdom.
Cross-Sector Collaboration
We partner with NGOs, researchers, Tribal Nations, agencies, and community leaders across both sides of the border.
Our Cross-Border Initiatives
These initiatives work together to strengthen collaboration, leadership, and community-rooted solutions across the Tijuana River Watershed.
5AMarine Debris Leadership Academy (MDLA)
A binational fellowship bringing together scientists, Indigenous leaders, environmental organizations, and agencies to reimagine watershed stewardship through cultural humility, systems thinking, and cross-sector leadership.
5BTijuana River Coalition
A regional alliance addressing cross-border pollution through advocacy, public health, environmental justice, and long-term infrastructure solutions. UMDC leads community engagement and storytelling inside the coalition.
What This Work
Makes Possible
Community Impact
Increased awareness of watershed health among youth and families
Stronger binational collaboration and shared strategy
Mental health and cultural belonging integrated into watershed work
Leadership development for the next generation
Systems-Level Impact
More effective cross-border environmental planning
A network of leaders trained in systems thinking and cultural fluency
Stronger political will and accountability
A watershed narrative rooted in equity, not extraction
Our Partners
Organizations across the Cali–Baja region
Educators, scientists, Tribal leaders, and youth mentors
Environmental justice and conservation groups
Public health and government partners
Join the Work
Whether you donate, volunteer, or partner with us—your support strengthens watershed justice across borders and coastlines.