NJ’s Drinking Water Crisis: What You Need to Know
What's Going On With New Jersey's Water?
For residents in Bergen, Essex, Sussex, Hudson, Morris, and Passaic counties, the safety of tap water has become a pressing concern. Between aging infrastructure and chemical contamination, New Jersey is facing a drinking water crisis that requires immediate attention and modern solutions.
Landmark PFAS Settlement
Recent legal developments have highlighted the severity of "forever chemical" contamination. Middlesex Water Co. and 3M recently agreed to a $4.9 million settlement to compensate 60,000 residents after PFOA levels far exceeded state limits. These toxic chemicals, linked to cancer and developmental issues, are increasingly being found in local aquifers, leaving many families feeling like "captives" to contaminated systems.
Climate Change and Saltwater Intrusion
Environmental shifts are also threatening our supply. Rising sea levels are pushing saltwater further upriver, creating undrinkable brackish water. While Cape May’s use of reverse osmosis desalination has been an innovative fix—notably effective at removing both salt and PFAS—the infrastructure is aging. With many plants needing $30 million+ in upgrades, the stability of our freshwater supply is at a crossroads.
The Infrastructure Struggle
The state’s delivery systems are showing their age. Trenton Water Works, which serves thousands, has faced criticism for chronic maintenance failures and lead risks. While federal funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law has allocated $44 million for lead pipe replacement in NJ, political shifts and funding delays continue to put local households at risk. We can no longer assume that the water traveling through these old pipes is safe.
Superfund Sites and Local Risks
New Jersey is home to 115 Superfund sites, including locations in Fairfield, Kearny, and Newark. In areas like the Wanaque Reservoir, toxins can migrate underground toward the very water we drink. While cleanup efforts are underway, the threat of legacy industrial pollution reaching North Jersey reservoirs remains a significant hurdle for ensuring long-term water quality.
Protecting Your Home
The battle for clean water is ongoing, but you don't have to wait for policy changes to protect your family. At Aqua Doctor, we specialize in advanced filtration and reverse osmosis systems designed to tackle these modern contaminants. Don’t take your water quality for granted—ensure your home is a safe haven.