Verona, New Jersey
Verona's tap water quality is rated Poor (F) due to significantly elevated levels of "Forever Chemicals" (PFAS). Despite having excellent heavy metal levels, the presence of PFOA at 700% and PFOS at 250% of EPA future limits is a concern. We recommend using a reverse osmosis filter to remove these contaminants.
Disclaimer: This analysis is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. The influence of contaminants on health relates to chronic, long-term, not acute or immediate effects. We make no claims, positive or negative, regarding tap water safety. For the latest information, consult your water provider.
The Good News
Biological and radiological contaminants were all within EPA limits in Verona. The town purchases treated surface water from the Wanaque and Pompton Rivers and Wanaque Reservoir, as well as using its own wells.
Verona Park, Verona, NJ
Heavy Metals
What are Heavy Metals?
Heavy metals are naturally occurring elements that can be toxic to humans in certain concentrations. The five most concerning heavy metals in drinking water are lead, arsenic, chromium, mercury, and cadmium. These contaminants can enter water supplies through natural deposits, industrial pollution, or aging infrastructure like lead pipes.
Verona's Heavy Metal Levels
Verona has exceptional heavy metal results. Lead, mercury, and cadmium were not detected in the water supply. Arsenic was detected at just 0.020% of EPA limits, and chromium at 0.002% of EPA limits. All heavy metals are well within EPA safety standards.
Important: While these levels are within EPA limits, health experts recommend zero exposure to lead and arsenic, as there is no known safe level of consumption for these particular contaminants.
PFAS - "Forever Chemicals"
What are PFAS?
PFAS (Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances) are a group of thousands of synthetic chemicals nicknamed "forever chemicals" because they don't break down naturally in the environment or human body. The strong carbon-fluorine bond makes them extremely persistent. PFAS have been widely used since the 1940s in products like non-stick cookware, water-repellent fabrics, food packaging, and firefighting foam.
Verona's PFAS Levels
Verona significantly exceeded EPA future limits for PFAS contamination. PFOA levels reached 700% of the EPA future limit, and PFOS levels reached 250% of the EPA future limit. This severe PFAS contamination was the key contributing factor to Verona's F grade.
Other Contaminants
No other significant contaminant issues were detected in Verona's water supply. All other tested contaminants were within EPA limits.
Verona, NJ - Community Garden
Our Grading System
Just as the Mona Lisa is a masterpiece of art, clean water is nature's masterpiece. We grade water quality on a scale from A (Excellent) to F (Poor), based on the presence and concentration of harmful contaminants.
The more toxic the contaminant, in greater quantity, the lower the grade. Multiple contaminants further affect the grade. For instance, water containing both lead and arsenic would result in a worse grade than having either, individually.
How Does Verona Compare?
The F, Poor rating is actually well below average for the local area. Nearby Orange, New Jersey with no detectable lead, arsenic or forever chemicals, was the only local municipality to rate excellent.
Water Filter Recommendations
Given the levels of PFAS and heavy metals in Verona tap water, we recommend using a reverse osmosis (RO) type filter with a NSF/ANSI 58 standard.
Just ensure they are certified to remove your particular water contaminants. If you would like to find out more about these filters, please visit: www.townwatercheck.com/water-filter-selection
Note: The Consumer Confidence Report does not indicate active water fluoridation in Verona.
Verona, NJ - Iconic Verona Park Bridge & Lake
Final Thoughts
We hope that our tap water information has proven helpful.
Notes:
- For the latest tap water information, check with your water provider or municipality.
- The influence of contaminants on health relates to chronic, long-term, not acute or immediate effects. We make no claims, positive or negative, regarding tap water safety.
- Sampled tap water data tends to be more conservative than the average glass of tap water, often citing the 9th worst of 10 samples.
- The information contained in this report may not reflect the views of our advisors.
- Please contact Town Water Check if you feel we have made an error.
- For purposes of consistency, we use EPA limits throughout this report, not state or local limits.
Town Water Check wishes you a healthy and informed life and a cleaner, more beautiful planet.