Self-Guided Tour: From the North Shore of the Salton Sea to Brawley

For those of you planning to be in the area for longer, we have developed this "self-guided tour" that you can use as you drive to Brawley.  This is not meant to be an exhaustive list, rather it is intended to give you a flavor of some of the environmental issues in the area if you’re driving from Ontario to Brawley.

Route Overview

  • Starting Point: North Shore of the Salton Sea
  • Ending Point: Hidalgo Hall, 410 S Cesar Chavez St., Brawley, California 92227
  • Estimated Total Drive Time: 45 minutes to 1 hour
  • Total Distance: Approximately 40 miles

1. North Shore of the Salton Sea

  • Key Environmental Issues
    • Salinity Levels: The increasing salinity of the Salton Sea due to evaporation and reduced inflows has severely impacted aquatic life. Learn about efforts to manage salinity and restore habitat for fish and bird species.
    • Air Quality: As water levels recede, exposed lakebed (known as playa) releases toxic dust into the air, worsening air quality. Discover how local communities are affected and the initiatives to mitigate these impacts.
  • Points of Interest
    • Salton Sea State Recreation Area: Stop by to learn about the area’s history, current environmental conditions, and view interpretive displays.
    • North Shore Beach: Witness firsthand the stark contrast between the former shoreline and the present-day lakebed.

2. Bombay Beach

  • Key Environmental Issues
    • Erosion and Flooding: Ongoing shoreline erosion has led to structural damage and flooding, particularly during high winds and storms.
    • Community Resilience: Despite these challenges, Bombay Beach is home to a resilient community that has transformed the area into a unique hub for art and culture.
  • Points of Interest
    • Bombay Beach Ruins: Explore the remnants of abandoned buildings and submerged structures that tell the story of the area’s rise and fall.
    • Bombay Beach Art Biennale: Check out the eclectic art installations that highlight environmental and social themes relevant to the region.

3. Sonny Bono Salton Sea National Wildlife Refuge

  • Key Environmental Issues
    • Wildlife Habitat: The refuge provides a critical habitat for migratory birds, many of which are endangered or threatened. Understand the challenges these species face due to shrinking wetlands and rising salinity.
    • Conservation Efforts: Learn about ongoing conservation projects aimed at preserving habitat and improving water quality in the region.
  • Points of Interest
    • Observation Deck: Offers a panoramic view of the refuge and the Salton Sea. A great spot for birdwatching, especially during migration seasons.
    • Rock Hill Trail: A short hike that provides an opportunity to observe the diverse plant and animal life adapted to the area’s unique environment.

4. Imperial Valley Agricultural Area

  • Key Environmental Issues
    • Water Use and Allocation: The Imperial Valley is one of the most productive agricultural regions in the U.S., but it also relies heavily on water from the Colorado River. Explore the delicate balance between agriculture, water use, and environmental health.
    • Agricultural Runoff: Fertilizer and pesticide runoff from farms can contribute to pollution in the Salton Sea, leading to algal blooms and fish die-offs.
  • Points of Interest
    • Coachella Canal: Observe the infrastructure that diverts water from the Colorado River to sustain local agriculture.
    • Irrigated Farmlands: Drive through fields of lettuce, alfalfa, and other crops that showcase the region’s agricultural abundance and the associated environmental costs.

5. New River Wetlands Project

  • Key Environmental Issues
    • Pollution and Remediation: The New River is considered one of the most polluted rivers in the U.S., carrying waste from both Mexico and the U.S. into the Salton Sea. Learn about ongoing efforts to clean up the river and improve water quality.
    • Restoration Projects: The New River Wetlands Project aims to create wetlands that filter pollutants and provide wildlife habitat, while also contributing to the broader restoration of the Salton Sea.
  • Points of Interest
    • Wetlands Viewing Area: A designated spot to view the wetlands and learn about the natural filtration processes that help improve water quality.
    • Interpretive Signs: Informative displays that explain the environmental significance of the New River and the restoration efforts underway.