New River, Cross-border river in Baja California, Mexico
The New River originates near Cerro Prieto and flows northward through Mexicali and Calexico before reaching California's Salton Sea. It spans roughly 120 kilometers and forms a waterway that follows the border between the two countries.
The waterway formed in 1904 when heavy rainfall and snowmelt caused the Colorado River to breach the Alamo Canal headgates. This event created the river channel that exists today between the two countries.
The river connects two different agricultural zones and shows along its banks how Mexico and the United States each manage water resources and environmental protection. Visitors can observe here the differences in how each side approaches land and water stewardship.
The river is not recommended for direct contact due to water quality issues from industrial waste and agricultural runoff. Visitors should keep their distance and use designated paths to explore the area safely.
The water holds over 100 chemical compounds including selenium, uranium, arsenic, and mercury at levels above safety standards. This contamination often surprises visitors given the rural surroundings.
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