PFAS in New Jersey

Last updated: July 16, 2025
Contributor: nicky

When I decided to examine PFAS in New Jersey, I quickly realized the scale of these chemicals’ impact on the Garden State’s water, soil, and broader ecosystem. Over the past few years, state authorities and community advocates have highlighted the health hazards associated with per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), which have found their way into public water systems, farmlands, and even household products. As I read official documents and scientific studies, one theme became clear—PFAS contamination in New Jersey represents a complex issue, requiring sustained regulatory, legal, and community efforts.

PFAS are called “forever chemicals” because their carbon-fluorine bonds make them incredibly persistent in the environment and in our bodies. Exposure to these compounds, according to studies cited by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), has been linked to a range of health problems, including kidney cancer, testicular cancer, thyroid disorders, and damage to the immune system. New Jersey, being home to several industrial sites that have historically manufactured or used PFAS, has experienced a notable increase in contamination levels over time.

I want to share what I have found about the extent of PFAS distribution across New Jersey, how they compromise drinking water, and the health effects that experts have documented in local communities. I will also take a closer look at the measures taken by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP), local municipalities, and other stakeholders to curb PFAS pollution. By understanding these steps, individuals can make informed choices about testing their water, reducing exposure, and pursuing legal recourse if they have been harmed. My goal is to present verified data in a straightforward, fact-forward manner so you can decide what steps to take next.

What Are PFAS and Why Are They Dangerous?

PFAS refer to a broad group of manufactured chemicals, including perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS), which have been used worldwide since the mid-twentieth century. As I studied various reports, I found that these substances were originally prized for their non-stick, water-repellent properties. They appear in items such as non-stick cookware, stain-resistant fabrics, takeout food packaging, and specialized firefighting foam.

The danger arises from the chemical stability of PFAS. They do not easily break down in nature and can accumulate in human and animal tissue. A federal review panel in 2006 described PFAS compounds, including PFOA, as a “likely” cause of cancer. I saw further confirmation in state-level research and CDC data that tie PFAS exposure to elevated cholesterol, potential liver damage, immune system dysfunction, and developmental problems.

Public health authorities, including the CDC, have become increasingly vocal about PFAS risks. “These chemicals can harm multiple organs in the human body,” said a CDC official, referencing the updated guidance published in January 2024. From my perspective, the evidence underlines a stark reality: PFAS exposure can lead to short- and long-term health problems, making complete avoidance difficult if they’ve contaminated local water sources or consumer goods.

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Where Are PFAS Found in New Jersey?

PFAS contamination in New Jersey has been detected in various contexts. Historically, industrial sites producing fluoropolymers and surface treatments have left traces of PFAS in local waterways. However, my research revealed an equally significant contribution from consumer products and firefighting foam used at airports or military bases. One particular concern is Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, where repeated foam usage has elevated PFAS levels in nearby groundwater.

Beyond these large-scale industrial and military sources, PFAS can also come from everyday products. Stain-resistant carpets, water-repellent clothing, and fast-food wrappers losed PFAS into local landfills. Over time, these chemicals leach into the soil, eventually moving into rivers, lakes, and aquifers. According to the Delaware Riverkeeper Network, PFAS contamination has been a critical issue in the Delaware River watershed since at least 2005. Communities in Camden, Gloucester, and Burlington Counties have repeatedly detected elevated PFAS levels in wells and drinking water supplies.

It surprised me how widespread these chemicals can become once they enter the environment. Data from the NJDEP shows they often persist in sediment and can travel far from the original point of discharge. Even relatively remote areas can display PFAS presence, sometimes because of atmospheric dispersion. This means New Jersey’s PFAS problem is not confined to a few hotspots; instead, it appears in urban centers, suburbs, and rural communities alike.

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PFAS in New Jersey’s Drinking Water

I believe the most pressing concern for residents is PFAS in the state’s public and private drinking water systems. Recent NJDEP findings indicate that approximately six percent of New Jersey’s population—around 500,000 people—may receive water with PFAS levels above safe consumption guidelines. The cities most affected include some smaller municipalities, but larger suburban areas are also seeing contamination, prompting calls for more stringent monitoring.

New Jersey was one of the first states to set a maximum contaminant level (MCL) for individual types of PFAS. The state currently enforces MCLs of 14 parts per trillion (ppt) for PFOA and 13 ppt for PFOS, tighter than many federal guidelines. Still, local communities have expressed concerns that even these standards fail to address the broader PFAS class. “We want to ensure that our families are protected from all PFAS compounds, not just a few,” said a local advocate in Burlington County.

Widespread PFAS detection has prompted some municipalities to install advanced filtration systems and provide temporary alternative water supplies when contamination spikes. Filtration technologies such as granular activated carbon or reverse osmosis can help reduce PFAS levels, but these solutions come with a high price tag. The scale of investment needed to upgrade water treatment plants across the state has stressed budgets, forcing local governments to seek federal or state grants to shoulder the costs.

PFAS in New Jersey’s Soil and Agriculture

As I continued researching PFAS in New Jersey, I discovered that soil contamination plays a critical part in the food chain. PFAS chemicals often settle in surface soils, especially near industrial zones, airports, and landfills. Through rainfall or irrigation, these compounds can move deeper, potentially reaching groundwater. Meanwhile, crops grown on contaminated farmland may absorb PFAS through their root systems, leading to accumulation in produce.

Agricultural stakeholders have expressed worry about the possibility of PFAS entering milk, meat, and other animal products. Although comprehensive data is limited, studies in other regions have found PFAS residues in livestock that grazed near contaminated water sources. New Jersey farmers in historically industrial corridors, such as parts of Middlesex and Gloucester Counties, are advocating for broader soil testing programs. They hope that targeted remediation efforts could safeguard farmland productivity and public health.

PFAS can be especially challenging to remove from soil without heavily disruptive measures like digging, hauling, or incineration at high temperatures. “We need to keep exploring safer, cost-effective ways to remediate farmland,” said one agriculture extension agent. From my perspective, tackling PFAS contamination in farmland is vital for ensuring safe produce and livestock—particularly because many people rely on local farmers’ markets for fresh foods.

Health Effects of PFAS Exposure

The potential health implications of PFAS exposure took me aback. Researchers cite kidney and testicular cancers as significant concerns, though the list of possible health problems does not end there. PFAS exposure is believed to interfere with immune function, reduce vaccine effectiveness, and disrupt hormonal activity. Between 2015 and 2024, multiple studies—some focusing specifically on New Jersey’s population—have underscored the elevated risk of cancers and thyroid disorders.

I noticed that many PFAS-related conditions develop over time, meaning individuals could live for years with no symptoms. When symptoms do appear, they might be difficult to trace directly to PFAS, especially since many diseases have multiple risk factors. Nevertheless, the CDC underscored in its January 2024 update that kidney cancer is a leading concern. “Prolonged exposure can significantly increase the risk of kidney cancer,” said the CDC official, noting that PFAS may also weaken the body’s response to illnesses.

Beyond cancer, high cholesterol and liver damage are frequently cited. Elevated cholesterol levels may not sound severe compared to cancer risks, but this condition can lead to cardiovascular problems if left unchecked. Thyroid disease, particularly in women, has also been observed. From my standpoint, it’s clear that PFAS exposure can have wide-ranging consequences that may affect individuals at different stages of life. That is why early detection and preventive action are crucial.

PFAS-Linked Diseases in New Jersey

New Jersey’s concentration of PFAS sites has created a worrying pattern of health impacts across multiple communities. I have seen references to kidney cancer clusters and rising cases of certain thyroid disorders, often in areas where drinking water exceeded state or federal advisories. While not every illness can be traced back to PFAS, enough correlations exist for residents and public officials to sound the alarm.

Kidney Cancer

Kidney cancer is one of the most closely monitored PFAS-linked conditions in New Jersey. The CDC identified this disease as a leading PFAS-related concern in its January 2024 update, explaining that “PFAS may induce changes in cellular processes that increase the risk of malignant growth.” New Jersey’s lawsuit filed in November 2024 specifically highlighted the dangers of PFAS in drinking water and the association with kidney cancer. I have come to view kidney cancer as a sort of sentinel condition, prompting many communities to demand stricter regulation and compensation for those affected.

Testicular Cancer

Testicular cancer also emerges repeatedly in literature addressing PFAS exposure. This type of cancer has been reported in clusters near military bases, including Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst. The presence of firefighting foam, historically containing high levels of PFOS and PFOA, has been indicated as a likely contributor. In my estimation, the testicular cancer issue underscores how specific industries or practices (like firefighting drills) play a large role in local hot spots of PFAS contamination.

Thyroid Disease

The thyroid gland controls metabolism, growth, and many other fundamental processes. Studies cited by the NJDEP and independent researchers point to thyroid disease as another PFAS-linked outcome. People with prolonged exposure, such as those living near contaminated water sources for decades, could develop thyroid disorders that affect their energy levels, weight, and overall hormone balance. While the data remain under review, the correlation is strong enough that local health departments encourage thyroid screening for individuals in high-exposure areas.

Liver Damage and Cholesterol Changes

The liver is responsible for detoxifying the body, so it is especially vulnerable to chemical pollutants. PFAS-related studies dating back to the 2000s identified potential liver damage and cholesterol changes among those exposed. Elevated cholesterol is a common finding, and while it is not immediately life-threatening, it can raise the risk of heart disease if left unmanaged. Based on personal research into local health records, it appears that this subtle effect affects a significant portion of residents exposed to PFAS pollution. Regular health screenings can be an effective way to catch emerging problems early.

How New Jersey Is Responding to the PFAS Crisis

Faced with this mounting crisis, New Jersey has undertaken a variety of measures to address PFAS contamination. I have followed the state’s policy updates closely, from rigorous enforcement actions to new legislation aimed at capping PFAS levels in drinking water. The state has also sued major chemical companies, including 3M, DuPont, and others, for their role in polluting public water systems. Additionally, local governments have installed advanced treatment systems, while nonprofits and community groups push for more widespread awareness.

NJ Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) Initiatives

When I turned my attention to the NJDEP, I saw a proactive stance. In 2019, the department demanded that five companies—3M, DuPont, DowDuPont, Chemours, and Solvay—pay millions of dollars for PFAS cleanup under New Jersey’s Spill Act. This enforcement action sent a message that polluters would be held accountable for remediation costs. NJDEP also directed water treatment facilities and industrial plants to monitor PFAS levels more frequently, prompting many towns to invest in advanced filtration technologies.

The NJDEP continues to collaborate with federal agencies on research and technical guidelines. Starting in 2023, Administrative Order 2023-01 required wastewater treatment plants to report PFAS discharges and take steps to reduce them. In my view, these measures reflect a broader push to identify, contain, and remediate PFAS at multiple points along the water cycle.

PFAS Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs) and State Standards

New Jersey gained national attention by setting some of the strictest PFAS MCLs in the country. The current rules limit PFOA at 14 ppt and PFOS at 13 ppt. Awareness has grown that these are only two PFAS compounds out of thousands in existence. A bill passed on January 8, 2024 (S-3176/A-4760), requires the NJDEP to study whether MCLs should be set for the entire PFAS class. From my perspective, this step supports a more comprehensive approach to PFAS regulation.

Additionally, S-3179/A-4759 mandates timely public notice if PFAS levels exceed these standards. Owners of public water systems must alert customers within 10 days, and landlords are instructed to notify tenants. To me, transparency measures like these help residents take quicker action to protect themselves and their families—whether by installing in-home filtration or seeking medical advice if they suspect PFAS-related symptoms.

Site Cleanup, Monitoring, and Public Warnings

Site cleanup pillars include pumping and treating contaminated groundwater, excavating hot-spot soil areas, and applying specialized filtration systems at municipal water intakes. “We’re beginning with the worst-affected sites first,” said an NJDEP representative in a recent news briefing, explaining that limited resources require strategic prioritization. These cleanup initiatives often take years, reflecting the complexity of PFAS’s chemical makeup.

Local health departments have stepped up public warnings through mailers, websites, and informational sessions. In some places, residents receive at-home testing kits or vouchers for free testing at certified labs. My understanding is that the more vigilant municipalities and counties become, the more quickly they can intervene to keep contamination in check.

Can You Test Your Water or Soil for PFAS in New Jersey?

I often encourage homeowners to consider testing their drinking water or garden soil if they suspect PFAS contamination. Household testing can be done through certified labs that analyze samples for PFOA, PFOS, and related compounds. Several labs in New Jersey conduct these tests for a fee, and certain municipal programs might offer free or subsidized testing in high-risk zones. Instructions typically involve collecting tap water in specialized vials and shipping it to the lab for analysis. Soil testing follows a similar sampling protocol but focuses on more complex extraction measures, given that PFAS can accumulate at various soil depths.

If test results come back above recommended limits, you may explore filtration options for your home, such as point-of-use reverse osmosis or whole-house systems. These can significantly reduce PFAS in the water supply. For soil, the remediation strategies are more complex. Some individuals end up capping contaminated areas or using raised beds with uncontaminated soil for vegetable gardens. In either case, early detection through testing is a critical first step.

I advise looking up local programs that partner with the NJDEP or county health departments for official guidelines on PFAS testing. This ensures that you use approved methods and laboratories, improving the accuracy of your results. Understanding your property’s PFAS status can guide you in making informed choices about drinking water, cooking, farming, or even raising livestock.

Do You Qualify for a PFAS Lawsuit in New Jersey?

If you believe your health or property has been harmed by PFAS contamination in New Jersey, you may be considering legal action. Typically, lawsuits focus on negligence by manufacturers, industrial polluters, or other entities that introduced PFAS into local water systems. One significant legal development occurred in 2019 when the state invoked the Spill Act to demand cleanup funds from major chemical companies. More recently, a lawsuit in late 2024 emphasized the direct link between PFAS and kidney cancer, underscoring the severity of the risks.

To find out whether you qualify for a PFAS lawsuit, you can consult resources that specialize in environmental claims. For instance, you might explore assistance through Legal Claim Assistant:

When determining eligibility, courts look for clear evidence connecting PFAS exposure to your medical condition or property damage. This may include documented contamination levels above state or federal standards, medical records, and expert testimony on the link between PFAS and your specific diagnosis. Though the process can feel overwhelming, I have learned that many law firms offer free consultations to assess the strength of your claim.

Why Choose Legal Claim Assistant

Choosing a reliable legal support service can simplify the often-confusing process of environmental litigation. I’ve seen how Legal Claim Assistant connects potential plaintiffs to experienced attorneys who focus on PFAS lawsuits. Their network aims to streamline case reviews, gather critical evidence, and structure legal strategies that address the unique challenges of PFAS suits.

What I find most compelling is their emphasis on free case reviews. By speaking directly to a legal expert, you can clarify whether your circumstances align with an existing PFAS lawsuit or if you might initiate an individual claim. This approach can be comforting for those of us who want to make sure we have a valid complaint before investing time and resources into a court battle.

Turning to professionals can also bridge gaps in expertise. PFAS litigation can involve multidisciplinary insights from environmental scientists, toxicologists, and epidemiologists. Based on my observations, Legal Claim Assistant works to coordinate those voices so that plaintiffs receive thorough representation. When you are facing health complications or property losses tied to PFAS, having a team of specialists on your side can make the difference between reaching a comprehensive settlement or receiving no compensation at all.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Many questions arise about PFAS contamination, especially for people worried about their local environment or diagnosed with certain health conditions. I have collected here the most common inquiries that come up based on state advisories, town hall meetings, and online forums. These answers should help guide your next steps, whether you’re looking to test your well, speak to a lawyer, or gather more details on New Jersey’s response to PFAS.

What are the PFAS levels in New Jersey drinking water?

PFAS levels vary widely depending on local sources and recent remediation efforts. Some areas fall well below state MCLs, while others exceed them. New Jersey enforces 14 ppt for PFOA and 13 ppt for PFOS in public water systems. However, future legislation may cover more PFAS compounds as the NJDEP studies the broader class. If you are uncertain about your water, testing is the best way to know the exact PFAS concentration.

What towns or regions are most affected by PFAS?

From my findings, contamination often clusters in areas near chemical plants, military bases, or industrial facilities. Certain parts of Gloucester, Burlington, and Middlesex Counties have reported higher levels. In 2021, six towns detected unsafe PFAS concentrations in their drinking water, affecting over 500,000 residents. Meanwhile, even smaller communities with older water infrastructures can see occasional spike events.

If you live outside New Jersey but worry about similar contamination, you can learn about other states’ PFAS issues, such as in Minnesota and Michigan.

Can I test my private well for PFAS in New Jersey?

Yes. Certified commercial labs, or local health departments with specialized programs, can analyze well water for PFAS. The NJDEP website lists approved labs to ensure accurate results. It generally involves taking a sample and mailing it to the lab, which tests for major PFAS varieties like PFOA and PFOS. Although testing may cost a few hundred dollars, it is crucial if you suspect contamination from nearby industrial sites or landfills.

What are the health effects of long-term PFAS exposure?

Public health authorities connect chronic PFAS exposure to kidney cancer, testicular cancer, thyroid disease, immune system suppression, and elevated cholesterol. Liver damage may also occur. If your test results confirm high PFAS levels, I recommend discussing health-monitoring plans with a medical professional. Early detection can sometimes lessen the severity of complications tied to PFAS-induced conditions.

What is the NJDEP doing to clean up PFAS sites?

The NJDEP has taken multiple steps, including demanding financial responsibility from major manufacturers. It also enforces site cleanup orders and imposes fines for continued releases of PFAS into the environment. The department is assessing how best to reduce PFAS discharges from wastewater treatment plants, encouraging them to adopt advanced filtration or find ways to eliminate PFAS upstream. Meanwhile, bills like S-3176/A-4760 require the NJDEP to study whether to establish a broader approach to PFAS MCLs for all related compounds.

Can I file a lawsuit if PFAS harmed my health or property?

If you have high PFAS levels in your water or soil and can link your health issue or property devaluation to that contamination, you may have grounds for a lawsuit. I suggest talking to a specialized legal team or a service like Legal Claim Assistant, which can help you find attorneys who understand environmental litigation. Typically, you’ll need documentation of the contamination, medical diagnoses, and evidence tying your condition to PFAS exposure. Settlements and court awards vary widely, but these lawsuits aim to help you recover medical expenses and other damages related to PFAS contamination.

Ultimately, PFAS contamination in New Jersey underscores the challenges of managing environmental pollutants that are both chemically persistent and widely used. By staying informed, testing drinking water, and engaging with local initiatives, you can make empowered decisions to protect your health and your community. If you suspect you have been harmed, exploring legal avenues may offer a path to compensation and, hopefully, drive further accountability for those responsible for widespread PFAS pollution.