Overview
Zacate Creek WWTP serves approximately 94,500 people in Laredo, Texas. The plant discharges into the Zacate Creek watershed, part of the Rio Grande basin that flows to the Gulf of Mexico.
Zacate Creek WWTP is a municipal wastewater treatment facility located in Laredo, Texas, serving a population of around 94,500 residents. The plant is situated in the Western Division of Laredo, within Webb County, and operates as part of the city's wastewater infrastructure. As a US facility serving a medium-to-large agglomeration, the plant is subject to the Clean Water Act and operates under an EPA NPDES permit issued by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality. For plants of this scale, secondary treatment is typically required, with additional nutrient removal if discharging to sensitive waters. The plant's treated effluent is discharged into Zacate Creek, a tributary of the Rio Grande. The Rio Grande flows southeastward to the Gulf of Mexico, supporting diverse aquatic habitats and serving as a critical water source for the region. The watershed faces challenges from drought and water demand, making effective wastewater treatment essential for maintaining water quality.
Environmental context
Zacate Creek WWTP discharges into Zacate Creek, which flows into the Rio Grande near Laredo. The Rio Grande is a major river forming the US-Mexico border, ultimately draining into the Gulf of Mexico. This watershed supports a variety of fish and bird species and is an important migratory corridor. The region's semi-arid climate means stream flows are highly variable, and treated wastewater contributes to base flow, helping sustain aquatic life during dry periods.
Frequently asked questions
Zacate Creek WWTP is located at 2801 Lee Avenue in Laredo, Texas, within Webb County. It serves the western part of the city.
The plant serves approximately 94,500 residents in the Laredo area, classifying it as a medium-to-large municipal wastewater treatment facility.
The plant discharges treated effluent into Zacate Creek, a tributary of the Rio Grande. The Rio Grande flows to the Gulf of Mexico, providing water for ecosystems and communities along its course.
As a US facility, the plant operates under the Clean Water Act and is regulated by an EPA NPDES permit issued by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ). This permit sets limits on pollutants to protect water quality.
Plants of this scale in Texas typically use secondary treatment (e. g. , activated sludge) to meet NPDES permit limits. Some may also incorporate disinfection and nutrient removal, especially if discharging to sensitive or impaired waters.
Nearby plants