CONTAMINATED DRINKING WATER

CONTAMINATED DRINKING WATER REPORT

Contaminated well water has been documented in the Waterford Township area since 1990 when the NJDEP tested 324 private wells in the Atco area. Fifty eight exhibited contaminants exceeding water standards. At that time 72 residences were provided with (Point Of Entry Treatment - POET) filter systems by the State of New Jersey. Recently, in seeking a long term solution to this problem, a municipal water system was installed in Atco proper, and plans are being made to extend the mains into additional areas. Due to the grand scale fo this project it will be some time until all intended areas can be supplied. Due to the grand scale of this project it will be some time until all intended areas can be supplied. For planning purposes, further testing is necessary to determine exactly what areas are contaminated and require in house treatment systems and eventually municipal water.

The WTEC strongly recommends that private homeowners have their water tested at least once a year.

Common questions

a) What type of contamination is in the water?

Chemicals have been found in the Aquifer (underground water supply) which are not found in pure water.

Organic - residual chemicals from possible fuel spills have found their way into our groundwater. The are commonly refereed to as organics.

'Chlorinated hydrocarbons' have also been found which are chemicals which were used for cleaning purposes and improperly discarded.

Lead can come from the solder used to bond your water pipes together, since our water is naturally acid.

Copper - High levels can come from the water pipes eroding.

Mercury has been also located, its source unknown..

Nitrates and Coliform bacteria - Residuals leaching from septic systems.

Radon and Radium may contribute to a higher incidence of cancer.

b) Can it effect my health?

There is reasonable published medical evidence that; organics and hydrocarbons can lead to problems with internal organs and nervous disorders. Lead and mercury can enter your blood supply and could cause brain damage and neurological disorders depending upon your body size and age. Nitrates have been linked to fetal health problems. Coliform bacteria can cause intestinal disorders.

c) How can I get my water tested?

Presently, residents are solely responsible for hiring a private laboratory to analyze the water from their private wells. Make sure that the lab is approved by the NJDEP to do such tests to guarantee the results are accurate. The WTEC can provide you with the phone number of the NJDEP who will provide you with this information. Please call (609) 676-2359 and ask for this phone number.

d) How much does it cost?

Water can be tested for hundreds of different contaminates. Presently, it is recommended that it be tested for pH, Copper, Lead, Mercury, Purageable organics - 502.2, Nitrate and Coliform. These tests can range from $175.00 to $250.00 depending upon the lab that is chosen. Other tests may also be performed for Radon and Radium at a greater expense. Each homeowner is required to pay for these tests. If confirmed - it is possible to be reimbursed by the State of New Jersey.

e) What are our officials and agencies doing about this problem?

The WTEC is contacting approved testing labs to obtain a 'volume' discount for residents who wish to test their water in April-May of 1999. Samples will be drawn from the homeowners taps on weekends. To participate, the WTEC only requests a copy of the labs results. The WTMUA is doing spot tests in the townships regional growth area in the early part of this year. The NJDEP is also doing groundwater tests in January this year.

f) What can I do if I find out my well water is contaminated?

Initially, the WTEC recommends that homeowners purchase bottled water for all drinking and cooking purposes. A second lab test must be done to verify the results of the first analysis. If confirmed, the homeowner can, with the help of the WTEC, apply to the State of New Jersey to be reimbursed for the cost of all of the lab tests and a in-house treatment (POET) system. Otherwise, the homeowner, at their own expense, may install an in-house treatment system. Caution is required to ensure that the system purchased will purify the water properly. Obtain a minimum of two separate quotes. A water test after the systems installation is recommended and also additional lab tests a minimum of once per year.

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