Livingston, New Jersey - Tap Water Quality

But let's share some good news. All levels of biological and radiological contaminants, pesticides and left-over disinfecting products were either undetectable or well within EPA limits.

Among the most common and concerning contaminants in tap water are a group known as 'heavy metals', including Lead, Arsenic, Chromium, Mercury and Cadmium. So harmful are these toxic substances to human health that the EPA limits their presence in tap water to between two and one hundred parts per billion, the equivalent of one drop in a large hot tub.

So in Livingston, although neither mercury nor cadmium were detected, low levels of lead, arsenic and chromium, at 43%, 13% and 1.6% of the EPA maximum respectively were present, but all within EPA limits.

However, the ultimate goal for both lead and arsenic is to be so low as to be undetectable. The presence of lead at 43% of EPA limits is a concern, as lead exposure can cause brain damage, especially in children, high blood pressure, and kidney damage. Arsenic at 13% is also concerning as it is a known carcinogen.

On a more positive note, no other significant issues were detected in Livingston tap water. Various other contaminants including disinfection byproducts (TTHM and HAA5), nitrate, and radiological contaminants (Gross Alpha, Radium, Uranium) were all detected at levels within EPA limits.

Not to be outdone by nature, man himself has created nearly indestructible "Forever Chemicals" or PFAS. In the 1930s, chemists had the "bright idea" of bonding Carbon, the element of life, to Fluorine, among the most reactive of elements.

Non-stick pans, water-resistant clothing, industrial fire retardant, were the result. But, was it worth it?

PFAS don't break down. Ever. They accumulate in the environment, in our bodies, and in our water supplies. The EPA has set a limit of 4 parts per trillion (ppt) for certain PFAS compounds—a level so low it's almost unimaginable. To put that in perspective, 4 ppt is like finding 4 drops of water in an Olympic-sized swimming pool.

The new EPA limits on PFAS used in this report are currently being debated as to when and whether to actually implement them. Livingston exceeded these limits, which was a key contributing factor towards their F grade, but they are not currently legally enforceable.

Note that to be consistent, we use the strictest EPA levels ever set, whether enforceable or not, not state or local limits. PFAS or Forever Chemicals have been known to compromise the immune system, increase cholesterol levels, cause developmental issues in children and increase certain cancer rates.

Livingston has an ongoing water infrastructure upgrade program which should result in improved tap water quality.

To better understand our grading system, think of H2O or water as nature's masterpiece. Marking it up, or adding contaminants, generally diminishes its quality. Purer water or at least within all EPA limits will result in a good grade. Note that there are a few exceptions to the "less is more" rule. Fluoride, in the right quantity, can contribute to long term dental health, especially in children. Calcium, magnesium and potassium are also important nutrients. Note that these nutrients can also be obtained with a balanced diet or in the case of fluorine, by using fluoridated toothpaste.

The F, Poor rating is the worst in the local area. Nearby Orange, New Jersey with no detectable lead, arsenic or forever chemicals, was the only local municipality to rate excellent.