Local & Community
Healthy Desert, Healthy You Summit Opens with Focus on Salton Sea Health Impacts
The Healthy Desert, Healthy You Summit wrapped up its first day in Rancho Mirage with a spotlight on one of the Coachella Valley’s most pressing issues — the future of the Salton Sea.
The daylong event featured panels on air quality, water quality, and infrastructure, drawing strong attendance from residents and community leaders concerned about the region’s environmental health. The final panel, moderated by NBC Palm Springs Olivia Sandusky, focused on the health impacts of the Salton Sea, where shrinking waters have created dust pollution and ecological challenges.
Panelists included community advocates and state officials, among them Joe Shea, California’s Assistant Secretary for Salton Sea Policy. Shea noted that while the state has invested hundreds of millions of dollars into habitat restoration and dust suppression projects — including a 2,000-acre project launched in May — more work must be done.
“We heard powerful stories from residents of Salton Sea communities who want to see more action,” Shea said. “We’re committed to moving faster than ever to deliver projects that restore habitat, suppress dust, and provide recreational benefits.”
Sandusky, who has reported extensively on the Salton Sea, said moderating the discussion reinforced the complexity of the issue and the importance of amplifying voices from affected communities.
Organizers said this year’s summit saw significant growth in attendance compared to its inaugural event. Planning is already underway for year three, with the Salton Sea expected to remain a central topic for Coachella Valley residents and policymakers.
By: NBC Palm Springs
September 11, 2025
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