Community members are invited to review findings and provide feedback before the report is finalized.
Imperial County and San Diego State University (SDSU) researchers announced today the release of the Draft Lithium Valley Health Impact Assessment (HIA) and invite Imperial County residents and community partners to review the report and provide feedback during a public comment period.
Under a research agreement, Imperial County engaged the San Diego State University Research Foundation (SDSURF) to conduct the HIA to better understand how direct lithium extraction (DLE) and related development may affect the health and well-being of people in Imperial County. Conducted from 2023 through 2026, the assessment brings together scientific research, local health and environmental data, existing planning documents, and input from community members.
The HIA examines potential health effects related to areas such as air quality, water, traffic, worker health and safety, stress and well-being, health care access, employment, and other community conditions. It also identifies potential benefits and areas where more information is needed.
Because large-scale DLE is still new, there is limited published research about how it may affect health. The HIA therefore emphasizes the importance of continued monitoring, community engagement, transparent information sharing, and ongoing evaluation as projects and scientific knowledge is still being developed.
Community Input
Community input has helped shape the HIA throughout its development. The project team reviewed previous public comments and conducted a community survey to better understand residents' knowledge of DLE, perceived health and community concerns, and views about potential benefits.
The release of the draft report provides another opportunity for residents to participate.
Community members are encouraged to review the draft HIA and provide feedback. The feedback may help identify information that needs clarification, questions that remain unanswered, or issues that should receive additional consideration before the HIA is finalized.
How to Review the Draft and Share Feedback
The Draft Lithium Valley Health Impact Assessment and easy-to-read materials are available online here.
Community members can provide feedback through an online feedback survey.
Public comments will be accepted through November 5, 2026.
Feedback may be submitted in English or Spanish.
Next Steps
Following the public comment period, the project team will review community feedback and consider it as the final HIA is prepared. The final report and community dissemination materials will be made publicly available following completion.
“This Health Impact Assessment is about understanding how changes in our region may affect the health and well-being of our communities. Community feedback is an important part of that process, and we encourage residents to review the draft and share what matters most to them.” said Peggy Price, Chairwoman, Imperial County Board of Supervisors
About the Health Impact Assessment
A Health Impact Assessment uses data, research, and community input to understand how a proposed project, plan, policy, or decision could affect people's health and well-being. It also identifies ways to support positive health outcomes and reduce potential harms.