Press Release
ELECTRICAL SHORT CAUSES A DISCHARGE AT MOUNTAIN CREEK REGIONAL WASTEWATER SYSTEM PLANT
(ARLINGTON, TEXAS) – An unauthorized discharge of non-disinfected, treated wastewater occurred Tuesday, Dec. 15, at the Trinity River Authority’s Mountain Creek Regional Wastewater System plant in Midlothian. The discharge was caused by an electrical short in the power converter within the ultraviolet disinfection system, causing the disinfection process to short out. The part has been replaced, and the disinfection process has resumed.
All wastewater overflows in excess of 100,000 gallons must be reported to Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, the public and other designated public officials. The final estimated quantity of the overflows will be reported to TCEQ.
No public drinking water supplies have been threatened or contaminated by this discharge. The public is reminded to avoid contact with waste material, soil or water near the affected areas. TRA has notified all required city, county and state officials.
Texas Commission on Environmental Quality
Chapter 319 – General Regulations Incorporated Into Permits
Rule Log No. 99031-319-WT
Figure: 30 TAC §319.303
NOTICE OF SPILL FROM A WASTEWATER FACILITY
A spill from a wastewater treatment or collection facility has occurred.
INFORMATION ABOUT THE SPILL
Facility Name: Trinity River Authority’s Mountain Creek Regional Wastewater System
Contact for further information: Vanassa Joseph (817) 493-5122
Location of the spill:
The unauthorized discharge occurred at the Mountain Creek Regional Wastewater System plant, located in Midlothian, approximately 1.5 miles north of the intersection of U.S. Highway 67 and U.S. Highway 287 in Ellis County, Texas 76065. _______________________________
Estimated time and date of spill: Beginning at 1:10 p.m., Dec. 15, 2021, ending at 2:20 p.m., Dec. 15, 2021.
Estimated volume of the spill (number of gallons): >100,000 gallons
Type of spill: Domestic wastewater.
Explain other:
Area potentially affected: Unnamed tributary, Newton Branch and SCS Reservoir 10
Suspected cause of spill: A power convertor within the UV system shorted and caused a disinfection disruption at the Mountain Creek Regional Wastewater System plant.
THE FOLLOWING ACTIONS HAVE BEEN TAKEN:
