Dangerous 'Forever Chemicals' Surge in New Jersey Water Wells

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Testing has revealed that over a third of private wells in some New Jersey counties are contaminated with hazardous PFAS chemicals, which have been linked to increased cancer rates and reproductive issues. More than 2,200 private wells in the state have PFAS levels far above drinking water standards, prompting officials to warn residents about the dangers of the 'forever chemicals' in their water.

Why it matters

PFAS contamination has been a growing problem in New Jersey, with the state having the second-worst drinking water quality in the nation. The state has previously reached settlements with chemical companies like DuPont and 3M over PFAS pollution, underscoring the scale of the issue. This latest surge in private well contamination raises serious health alarms for residents who rely on these water sources.

The details

The testing, conducted under the New Jersey Private Well Testing Act, found that around 11% of the more than 20,000 private wells tested contained PFAS levels above the state's drinking water standard. Some counties reported PFAS in more than a third of their private wells, though two counties have barely conducted any testing, leaving residents unaware of potential dangers. The state's Spill Fund provides financial assistance to private well owners impacted by the contamination to install water treatment systems.

• In December 2021, the state began testing more than 20,000 private wells for PFAS under the New Jersey Private Well Testing Act.
• Late last year, Hillsborough health officials notified residents that several potable wells had PFAS levels far above drinking water standards.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The state Department of Environmental Protection is continuing to investigate the extent of PFAS contamination in private wells across New Jersey and provide financial assistance to affected residents through the Spill Fund.