Salisbury Wastewater Treatment Plant Overflows Into The River Again

In an effort to keep the public informed of Public Works activities, please be aware that there 

was a Sanitary Sewer Overflow at the City of Salisbury Wastewater Treatment Plant on Sunday, 

April 14, 2013 from 5:00 am to 8:00 am. A pump failed in the Internal Recycle Pump Station 

which caused partially treated wastewater to enter the storm drain system and the Wicomico 

River. Repairs are being made at the pump station as the cause of the overflow is being fully 

investigated to include a thorough investigation of all personnel involved with the operation of 

the station where the release occurred. Appropriate disciplinary action will be taken, if 

necessary, both during and at the conclusion of the investigation. 

The quantity of the Sanitary Sewer Overflow was approximately 29,390 gallons, but was initially 

thought to be less. Based on the revised calculation of the size of the overflow, the Wicomico 

County Health Department has requested a public notification, which would not have been 

required for a lesser amount. “Swimming and Fishing Advisory” signs were posted along the 

Wicomico River on Sunday. According to the amount of the overflow, the sewage would 

have dissipated, in the Wicomico River, in 6 hours. River sampling will begin on Wednesday 

and will continue until the Wicomico County Health Department discontinues the river testing. 

If you have any questions, please call the Public Works Department at 410-548-3170.