Comprehensive Guide to Water Quality in New Jersey State: Contaminants, Issues, and Water Filtration Solutions

by Ryan Moreau / updated February 27th, 2025

New Jersey, known as the Garden State, boasts a diverse range of water resources—from the scenic Delaware River and its tributaries to the vital reservoirs supplying urban centers like Newark and Jersey City. Despite its modest size, the state faces significant water quality challenges due to industrial activities, agricultural runoff, and aging infrastructure. In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the common contaminants in New Jersey’s water, regional water quality challenges, and effective filtration solutions. Begin by using our Water Quality Tool to receive a customized analysis of your local water conditions.

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Overview of New Jersey’s Water Sources

New Jersey’s water supply is derived from a variety of sources that cater to both its urban and rural populations. Key sources include:

  • Surface Water Reservoirs: Reservoirs like the Round Valley and Spruce Run provide drinking water to millions in the northeastern part of the state.
  • Delaware River Basin: The Delaware River and its tributaries are critical for municipal water supply, industrial use, and recreation.
  • Atlantic Coastal Plain Aquifers: The Kirkwood-Cohansey aquifer system supplies groundwater to the southern regions, supporting both residential and agricultural needs.
  • Passaic and Raritan Rivers: These rivers serve as essential sources for central New Jersey’s water utilities.

Managing water quality across these sources requires continuous monitoring and advanced treatment processes due to the state’s dense population and industrial history.

Common Water Quality Contaminants in New Jersey

New Jersey’s industrial past and agricultural activities contribute to a range of contaminants in its water sources. To better understand the potential issues in your area, start with our Water Quality Tool and then review these common concerns:

1. Chromium-6

Chromium-6, a toxic heavy metal, has been detected in various parts of New Jersey, often stemming from industrial processes and manufacturing sites. Long-term exposure is associated with cancer and liver damage.

Water Filtration Options for Chromium-6: Reverse Osmosis Water Filters

2. Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAs)

New Jersey has some of the highest levels of PFAs contamination in the country, largely due to chemical plants and firefighting foam use near military bases. These “forever chemicals” can lead to immune system effects and developmental issues in children. For more information, visit the EPA PFAs Tools and our PFAs Contamination Guide.

Water Filtration Options for PFAs: Activated Carbon Water Filters, Reverse Osmosis Water Filters

3. Nitrates

Agricultural regions in southern New Jersey contribute to elevated nitrate levels in groundwater due to fertilizer runoff. High nitrate levels are particularly harmful to infants, causing conditions like methemoglobinemia.

Water Filtration Options for Nitrates: Reverse Osmosis Water Filters

4. Lead

Aging infrastructure, especially in older cities like Newark and Trenton, leads to lead leaching into drinking water. Lead exposure can result in serious neurological and developmental issues, particularly in children.

Water Filtration Options for Lead: Reverse Osmosis Water Filters, Activated Carbon Water Filters certified for lead removal

5. Mercury

Industrial discharge and historical pollution have introduced mercury into some of New Jersey’s water bodies. Mercury exposure can affect the nervous system and is particularly dangerous for pregnant women and young children.

Water Filtration Options for Mercury: Reverse Osmosis Water Filters

6. Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)

VOCs such as trichloroethylene (TCE) and tetrachloroethylene (PCE) are found in areas near industrial sites and landfills. These compounds are linked to liver, kidney damage, and increased cancer risk.

Water Filtration Options for VOCs: Activated Carbon Water Filters

7. Radionuclides

Certain regions in New Jersey have groundwater with elevated levels of radionuclides like radium and uranium due to natural geological formations. Long-term exposure increases the risk of cancer.

Water Filtration Options for Radionuclides: Reverse Osmosis Water Filters, ion exchange systems

8. Pesticides and Herbicides

Suburban and agricultural runoff introduces pesticides and herbicides into water supplies, affecting both human health and local ecosystems.

Water Filtration Options for Pesticides and Herbicides: Activated Carbon Water Filters, Reverse Osmosis Systems

9. Bacterial Contamination

Private wells, particularly after heavy rainfall or flooding, can become contaminated with bacteria like E. coli due to septic system failures or surface water infiltration.

Water Filtration Options for Bacterial Contamination: UV Water Purifiers, paired with Sediment Filters

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Regional Water Quality Challenges in New Jersey

New Jersey’s combination of industrial zones, agricultural areas, and densely populated cities creates distinct regional water quality issues. According to the EPA and the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP), key challenges include:

1. Industrial Pollution in Northern New Jersey

Areas like Newark, Elizabeth, and Paterson deal with contamination from historical industrial activities. Pollutants such as chromium, lead, and PFAs are prevalent due to manufacturing legacies and waste disposal practices (EPA – Superfund Sites).

2. Agricultural Runoff in the Delaware River Basin

The western regions bordering Pennsylvania experience agricultural runoff leading to elevated nitrate and pesticide levels in the Delaware River and associated groundwater (EPA – Agriculture Nutrient Pollution).

3. Coastal Contamination in Southern New Jersey

Coastal communities face challenges from saltwater intrusion into freshwater aquifers and bacterial contamination due to septic system failures and stormwater runoff.

General Water Characteristics in New Jersey

Understanding the general water characteristics in New Jersey can help residents choose appropriate treatment solutions to address both common and unique challenges:

1. Water Hardness

Water hardness varies, with certain regions experiencing moderate to hard water due to high mineral content, particularly calcium and magnesium, from limestone formations.

Hard water can lead to scale buildup in plumbing and reduce the efficiency of water heaters and appliances. For those facing hard water issues, water softeners are recommended. Unsure about your water hardness level? Use our Water Softener Calculator for personalized advice.

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2. Acidic Water Conditions

Certain areas, especially those relying on groundwater from the Pine Barrens, encounter acidic water with low pH levels, causing corrosion in pipes and fixtures.

  • Low pH Effects: Acidic water can leach metals like copper and lead from plumbing materials.
  • Protective Measures: Using acid neutralizing filters can help balance pH levels and protect your home’s plumbing.
A close-up, high-definition image of heavily corroded pipes in an older New Jersey building, demonstrating the impact of aging infrastructure, no text overlays.


3. Iron and Manganese

High levels of iron and manganese are common in New Jersey’s groundwater, particularly in the southern regions. While not harmful to health, they can cause staining and affect water taste.

To address these minerals, consider installing iron filtration systems which effectively remove excess iron and manganese from your water.

A stylized cross-sectional diagram of New Jersey's geology and aquifers, showing groundwater flow and natural springs, no text or labels.

Utilizing the Water Quality Tool for New Jersey Residents

Our Water Quality Tool is an invaluable resource for New Jersey residents aiming to understand their local water quality. The tool allows you to:

  • Input your zip code for a detailed report on local water sources and quality
  • Access data on common contaminants affecting your area
  • Receive customized recommendations for water filtration solutions tailored to your specific needs

Based on the prevalent contaminants identified in New Jersey’s water sources, the following filtration systems are highly effective:

1. Reverse Osmosis Systems

Reverse Osmosis Systems are excellent for removing a wide range of contaminants, including PFAs, nitrates, lead, mercury, and chromium-6. These systems are suitable for both point-of-use and whole-house applications.

2. Activated Carbon Filters

Activated Carbon Filters effectively reduce VOCs, pesticides, herbicides, and improve taste and odor. They are an ideal choice for municipal water supplies with chlorine treatment.

3. UV Water Purifiers

UV Water Purifiers are essential for eliminating bacterial contamination, especially for homes using private wells or in areas prone to flooding.

A side-by-side comparison graphic of three water filtration systems effective in New Jersey—reverse osmosis, activated carbon, and whole-house—no text or branding.

Local Water Testing Services in New Jersey

Accurate water testing is crucial to identify specific contaminants in your water supply. We recommend utilizing SimpleLab for comprehensive water testing services. Their easy-to-use kits and detailed lab reports will help you make informed decisions about the necessary filtration systems for your home.

Case Studies: Addressing Water Quality Issues in New Jersey

Examining real-world scenarios provides valuable insights into effective strategies for managing water quality challenges in New Jersey:

1. Newark’s Lead Service Line Replacement

In response to elevated lead levels, Newark undertook an ambitious program to replace over 18,000 lead service lines. This initiative significantly reduced lead contamination and served as a model for other cities facing similar issues.

2. PFAs Mitigation in Gloucester County

Communities in Gloucester County installed advanced filtration systems, including granular activated carbon and ion exchange units, to reduce PFAs levels in the municipal water supply, resulting in safer drinking water for residents.

3. Protecting the Kirkwood-Cohansey Aquifer

Efforts to safeguard the Kirkwood-Cohansey aquifer involved implementing stricter regulations on agricultural practices and developing conservation programs to prevent over-withdrawal and contamination of this vital groundwater resource.

A before-and-after photo sequence of water infrastructure upgrades in New Jersey, highlighting improvements in water quality, no text overlays.

Call to Action

New Jersey’s diverse water resources—from the critical aquifers supplying rural communities to the reservoirs serving its urban centers—require proactive management to ensure water safety and quality. Understanding your local water challenges and implementing effective filtration solutions is essential to protect your family’s health.

Take the first step by entering your zip code into our Water Quality Tool for a detailed analysis of your water supply. Then, explore our filter review articles to identify the most suitable filtration system for your needs. Finally, confirm your water’s safety with comprehensive water testing services to ensure your home has access to clean, safe water.

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