The San Diego Pure Water Project is one of the most visionary environmental initiatives in the Southwest. It aims to turn recycled wastewater into safe, drinkable water to protect the community from drought and reduce harmful discharges into the ocean. For years, the Coastal Environmental Rights Foundation (CERF) has led efforts to make San Diego more water-independent and sustainable.
Standing up for San Diego’s future
Recently, a San Diego representative on the San Diego County Water Authority—Jim Madaffer—called for a pause on the project’s second phase, arguing that it is too expensive and that the City already has a reliable water supply through existing sources, like the Claude “Bud” Lewis Carlsbad Desalination Plant. But this would undo years of progress and put San Diego’s drought-resistant water future at risk.
The city is legally bound to finish both phases of the Pure Water Project. CERF (along with other environmental partners) have been pushing the City to meet strict wastewater discharge standards established by its federal and state permits. Madaffer’s statements are misguided and inconsistent with these goals. CERF has called on Madaffer to step aside or be removed by the Mayor. Coast Law Group agrees with this sentiment and reiterates the calls for Madaffer to step aside.
For more than two decades, CERF, made up of surfers, community members and environmental advocates, has helped lead San Diego’s critical clean-water efforts. CERF is led by Marco Gonzalez, one of Coast Law Group’s founding partners. Coast Law Group shares CERF’s concern for the community.
CERF’s goal is to keep coastlines clean and water safe. The group works to stop pollution, improve water quality and push for sustainable solutions like the Pure Water Project. Thanks to their work, San Diego is closer than ever to building a reliable, local water supply that future generations can depend on.
No pause on progress
CERF’s Executive Director, Marco Gonzalez, responded to Madaffer with a clear message: San Diego needs to defend its water future, not weaken it. Gonzalez believes that city representatives need to prioritize the locals’ interests, not agencies that profit from importing water.
What to expect when the project stops
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Residents would stay dependent on costly imported water.
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More treated wastewater could end up in the ocean and threaten marine life.
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San Diego would be less prepared for the next drought or climate emergency.
A future worth defending
Coast Law Group proudly stands with Marco Gonzalez and the CERF in the ongoing fight to keep San Diego’s water clean, reliable and sustainable. The future of San Diego’s water is not up for debate, it is a responsibility we all share.