Accumulated debris blocking discharge structures forced a planned two-hour shutdown at the Dallas Salmon Wastewater Treatment Plant on North Wisconsin Street after crews noticed abnormally high water levels in the facility's aeration basins following heavy rainfall in June.

A 10-person team, including seven Wastewater Department employees and a three-person Line Repair crew, used a Vactor truck and two 6-inch bypass pumps to lower basin levels, inspect the discharge structures, and clear the blockage, according to the city's Public Works Week in Review published Wednesday, July 29. Normal treatment operations resumed after the two-hour shutdown.

The aeration basins move wastewater through successive treatment stages. When debris restricted that flow, water backed up rather than advancing through the process. The city's Public Works Department said staff identified and resolved the issue to protect public health and maintain compliance with environmental regulations.

Hazardous trees removed near Meadowbend Water Plant

Separately, City Arborist Heather McKnight ordered the removal of two hazardous trees near the Meadowbend Water Plant. McKnight, a certified arborist and tree risk assessment qualified professional who has served in the role since at least 2009, determined that a large ash tree with significant decay pockets at its base posed a safety risk to buildings and critical infrastructure at the water plant.

A smaller dead pine tree adjacent to the ash was also taken down.

Water Production staff and the Vegetation Management Division coordinated the removal and site cleanup. McKnight's assessment found the ash tree's deteriorated condition, combined with its proximity to critical facilities, warranted removal before severe weather could bring it down on plant infrastructure.

Council approved pump repair at same plant in May

The debris shutdown is the second maintenance action at the Dallas Salmon plant in recent months. In May, the City Council approved a $57,824 contract with Pump Solutions, Inc. for the repair and installation of re-lift pump No. 4 at the same facility, according to council records. That contract passed on the consent agenda as Resolution No. 2026-95.

The plant at 703 N. Wisconsin handles wastewater treatment for portions of League City.