Cross-border volunteers launch long-term environmental restoration effort in Mexicali
More than 120 volunteers from Rotary Districts 4100, 5300, 5330, and 5340 came together in Mexicali on May 8 to launch a major Colorado River cleanup initiative focused on protecting one of the region’s most important natural resources.
The effort, titled “We Rescue the Colorado River,” began with a large-scale cleanup operation along the Santa Anita Drain in Mexicali, where volunteers, community leaders, students, government agencies, and local organizations united for a day of environmental restoration and community impact.
“This cleanup represents hope, awareness, and unity.”
Working across an 800-meter section of the Mexicali Drain, volunteers removed an estimated 875 tons of solid waste, debris, and vegetation during the first two phases of the Colorado River cleanup project.
Colorado River Cleanup Demonstrates Regional Environmental Collaboration
Organizers described the event as more than a cleanup effort. It represented the beginning of a long-term commitment to environmental stewardship, regional collaboration, and community engagement surrounding freshwater protection in the Colorado River watershed.
“This cleanup represents hope, awareness, and unity,” organizers shared following the event. “It represents the desire to leave future generations a cleaner environment, a stronger community, and an example that through service, we can build peace.”
The project came together in only a few weeks following an April 28 planning meeting between Rotary leaders, government representatives, and supporting organizations. Despite the short timeline, the initiative quickly expanded into a large collaborative effort involving multiple Rotary districts from both sides of the border.
Participants included 26 students from CONALEP, 24 students from Universidad 16 de Septiembre, 16 Rotarians, surrounding community residents, public works personnel, media representatives, and volunteers from Hyundai and other supporting organizations. In total, 126 people participated in the cleanup effort.
Rotary Leaders Say Colorado River Cleanup Is Only the Beginning
The project also demonstrated significant measurable community impact. Organizers estimated the combined financial and social impact of the cleanup at approximately $78,847 USD, including machinery support, debris transportation, and volunteer service hours contributed by Rotarians, students, and community members.
“Every action, no matter how small, has the power to transform our world.”
The cleanup effort received support from numerous government agencies and community partners, including representatives from the City of Mexicali, CONAGUA, the Colorado Irrigation District, educational institutions, and local environmental and public service organizations.
Rotary leaders from participating districts emphasized that this initiative is only the beginning of a broader movement focused on environmental restoration and protecting freshwater resources in the region.
Dr. Bricia ElAwar, representing Rotary Districts 5300, 5330, and 5340, expressed gratitude to the volunteers, community partners, and organizations that helped bring the initiative to life.
“Every action, no matter how small, has the power to transform our world,” organizers shared. “This is only the beginning.”
The “We Rescue the Colorado River” initiative reflects Rotary’s ongoing commitment to community service, environmental sustainability, and international collaboration through meaningful local action.
