Posted by Urchindiver2002 on September 17, 2002 at 11:00:14:
In Reply to: Uni from Mission Bay Jetty...safe to eat? posted by Nate on September 16, 2002 at 23:28:35:
I usually don't believe everything I read, but this time you might just want to pass and go to sushi bar...
Toxic Waste Destroying San Diego Creek
Posted on: 06/14/2002
SAN DIEGO -- Environmentalists call the creek a toxic mess. They said Diazanon, a common chemical pesticide, is killing the creek.
"Urban runoff is one of the most significant water pollution problems we are currently facing," environmental scientist Deborah Jayne said.
The 30-mile creek originates in La Mesa and Lemon Grove and winds it way through the communities of City Heights, Encanto, Oak Park, Webster and Barrio Logan. It spills out into San Diego Bay.
Whenever it rains, trash and toxic materials, like pesticides, wash into Chollas Creek.
"Bacteria and heavy metals, such as copper, lead and zinc flow into the creek," Jayne said.
And Jayne said you don't have to live by the creek to poison it. The toxins come from everywhere.
"It's our households, our yards, our cars, our shopping centers and our freeways. It's the runoff and pollutants from our neighborhood," Jayne said.
Even waste water from an innocent carwash makes its way into Chollas Creek. Amazingly, wildlife continues to survive in the creek -- for now.
Small fish populate the creek. Eventually, the toxins in the creek will work its way up the food chain,according to Jayne.
"What we're seeing is right now is toxicity to small aquatic organisms. They're the food source for the larger fish and birds and other wildlife," Jayne said.
Jayne said the problems at Chollas Creek are not unique. She said the key factor is public education.
Jayne said you can help save the creek and others like it in your own neighborhood by using less toxic alternatives to chemical pesticides.
The California Regional Water Quality Control Board approved an action plan this week to help return the creek to its once pristine habitat. The city of San Diego also is working to clean up the creek, according to 10News.
Source: 10 News