Since mid-December 2010, the South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) has responded to numerous odor complaints received from local schools, local community services facilities and nearby neighborhoods regarding various odors present in the community of Mecca.  In response, the SCAQMD initiated a series of investigations and air monitoring activities.  The SCAQMD has identified Western Environmental, Inc. and their co-owned adjacent facility, Waste Reduction Technologies, as the primary source of the odors.  To date, there have been no elevated levels of toxic pollutants detected in the community.  However, there are still known health impacts resulting from exposure to strong and objectionable odors, and the SCAQMD takes these health impacts seriously. Please click on the link below for a summary of the results of the SCAQMD’s activities as well as planned future actions.  The SCAQMD is committed to working with the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Cabazon Band of Mission Indians, facility operators, and local public health officials to eliminate these odors and ensure the safety and health of the Mecca community.

Investigations and Air Sampling in Mecca, CA  - Status Report - March 31, 2011 (PDF, 283kb)