Published on June 2, 2026

EL PASO – On May 31, a wastewater spill occurred at the Roberto Bustamante Wastewater Treatment Plant at 10001 Pan American Drive. Crews responded immediately and were able to contain the spill within the El Paso Water property. Cleanup and disinfection efforts are ongoing.

The spill was caused by a clog resulting from a malfunction in equipment designed to capture large debris before wastewater enters the treatment process. An estimated 560,000 gallons of wastewater was spilled within the Bustamante Plant property. No water or wastewater services were affected. The public drinking water supply is not at risk.

This incident has no impact on the treatment of incoming river water. Water and wastewater treatment operations are conducted at separate facilities.

The following is required language from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality for a wastewater discharge event of this size:

Although it was determined that the public water supply was not affected, EPWater customers or persons who purchase water from another public water supply may contact their water supply distributor to determine if the water is safe for personal use.

Persons using private drinking water supply wells located within 1/2-mile of the spill site or within the potentially affected area should use only water that has been distilled or boiled at a rolling boil for at least one minute for all personal uses including drinking, cooking, bathing, and tooth brushing. Individuals with private water wells should have their well water tested and disinfected, if necessary, prior to discontinuing distillation or boiling.

The public should avoid contact with wastewater or soil in the area affected by the discharge. If contact is made, it is advised to bathe and wash clothes thoroughly as soon as possible.

For customers who have questions about the wastewater spill, please contact Geoffrey Espineli,  Wastewater Systems Division Manager at (915) 594-5591.