New Jersey Sees Surge in Private Wells Contaminated by 'Forever Chemicals'

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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, also known as 'forever chemicals.' These chemicals have been linked to increased cancer rates and reproductive issues. The state has the second-worst drinking water quality in the nation, and officials are now warning residents about the dangerous levels found in many private wells.

Why it matters

PFAS contamination in New Jersey's drinking water supplies is a major public health concern, as exposure to these chemicals has been associated with a range of serious health problems. The high rates of contamination in private wells across the state underscore the scale of the issue and the need for comprehensive testing and remediation efforts to protect residents.

The details

More than 2,200 private wells in New Jersey have tested positive for PFAS levels that exceed state drinking water standards. Some counties report that over a third of their private wells are contaminated. While PFAS are found in water and soil worldwide, New Jersey has been especially hard hit, with the state having the second-worst drinking water quality in the nation. The DuPont and 3M chemical companies previously agreed to pay the state $2.5 billion for PFAS contamination.

• In December 2021, the state began testing over 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 urging all private well owners to have their water tested for PFAS contamination. Residents with contaminated wells can file a claim with the New Jersey Spill Fund to receive financial assistance for installing water treatment systems.