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Indicator Profile of Arsenic in Private WellsWhy Is This Important?Arsenic is a naturally-occurring element in the earth's crust, and trace amounts can be found in geologic formations and aquifers in parts of New Jersey. Arsenic may also be found in soils as a result of past use of arsenic-containing pesticides and wood preservatives.Arsenic has been classified by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) as a known human carcinogen. Ingestion of large amounts of inorganic arsenic is associated with increased risk of several types of cancer, including skin, lung, liver, kidney and urinary bladder. Other potential effects of ingesting large amounts of arsenic include diarrhea, thickening and/or discoloration of the skin, diabetes, and heart disease. Arsenic in Private Wells, Percent of Tested Wells Exceeding MCL, September 2002 to April 2007, by County  Data NotesData Source: Private Well Testing Act Program, New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, Well Test Results for September 2002 - April 2007, report published July 2008. Between September 2002 and April 2007, arsenic testing of private wells was required only in the ten counties shown on the graph. Testing began in Sussex and Warren counties beginning in March 2008.DefinitionPercent of tested private wells with arsenic concentration exceeding the maximum contaminant level of 5 micrograms of arsenic per literHow We Calculated the Rates
Page Content Updated On 12/21/09,
Published on 12/21/09
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Department of Health P. O. Box 360, Trenton, NJ 08625-0360 Phone: (609) 292-7837 Toll-free in NJ: 1-800-367-6543 Our Locations |
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