Running Dry: The Water Crisis Facing the Border Region | Cali-Baja Business Summit 2026

How can the Cali-Baja region strengthen its water security amid increasing demand, prolonged drought conditions, and growing pressure on shared water resources? At the Cali-Baja Business Summit 2026, water policy and infrastructure experts examined the challenges facing communities, industries, and public institutions on both sides of the U.S.–Mexico border. The discussion addressed the region's dependence on the Colorado River, the implications of water scarcity for long-term economic development, and the importance of diversifying water supplies. Panelists explored approaches including water conservation, wastewater reuse, desalination, infrastructure investment, and innovative financing mechanisms. The conversation also addressed the Tijuana River pollution crisis and the need for coordinated binational solutions that connect environmental protection with sustainable water management. Panel: Running Dry: The Water Crisis Facing the Border Region Moderator:Richard Kiy | President & CEO, Institute of the Americas Panelists: Carlos de la Parra | Founding Partner, Centro Luken de Estrategias en Agua y Medio Ambiente Meena Westford | San Diego County Water Authority Salvador Lopez | Chief Environmental Officer, North American Development Bank (NADBank) This discussion highlights why long-term water planning, cross-border cooperation, and investment in resilient infrastructure are essential to the environmental and economic future of the Cali-Baja megaregion. About the Event The Cali-Baja Business Summit 2026 brought together business leaders, industry experts, and regional stakeholders to discuss the opportunities and challenges shaping economic development across the U.S.–Mexico border. Organized around the theme One Region Forward, the Summit provided a platform for strategic dialogue on binational collaboration, investment, innovation, and regional competitiveness. #CaliBajaBusinessSummit #OneRegionForward #TijuanaEDC #WaterSecurity #ColoradoRiver #WaterInfrastructure #BinationalCollaboration