the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Ridgewood NJ, December 18, 1974, marked a monumental step in environmental history: the signing of the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) into law. This legislation was designed to protect public health by establishing enforceable national standards for drinking water quality, ensuring cleaner and safer water for Americans across the country.
The Evolution of the Safe Drinking Water Act
Over the past 50 years, the SDWA has evolved to address emerging water quality threats. From tackling contaminants such as lead and bacteria to facing modern challenges like PFAS—commonly known as “forever chemicals”—the act continues to adapt, reinforcing its commitment to safeguarding public health.
New Jersey Takes the Lead in Innovation
In honor of the SDWA’s 50th anniversary, the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) presented its Our Water’s Worth It award to the New Jersey Drinking Water Quality Institute (DWQI). This recognition highlights DWQI’s groundbreaking work in establishing the nation’s first drinking water standards for PFAS, setting a benchmark for water safety across the U.S.
Ridgewood Water: A Commitment to Addressing Challenges
Ironically while celebrating the SDWA’s legacy, Ridgewood Water recognizes the ongoing challenges it faces in providing high-quality drinking water. Over the past year, Ridgewood Water has exceeded the Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCL) for PFOA at 23 of its facilities and PFOS at four facilities.
To address these concerns:
- New Treatment Installations: Ridgewood Water is actively installing new treatment systems across all wells, with an estimated completion date of 2026.
- Water Source Management: Efforts are underway to prioritize wells with the lowest PFAS levels and to purchase water from sources meeting NJDEP standards.
Potential Health Risks of PFAS
According to the New Jersey Department of Health (NJDOH), long-term exposure to PFAS above MCL levels can lead to significant health risks, including:
- Issues affecting the kidney, liver, reproductive, immune, and endocrine systems.
- Increased risk of testicular or kidney cancer in men.
- Developmental delays in fetuses and infants, with effects potentially lasting through childhood.
Learn More About PFAS and Water Safety
As Ridgewood Water works toward a long-term resolution, it’s crucial for residents to stay informed. Visit NJDEP’s PFAS Resources or consult Ridgewood Water’s updates for the latest information on treatment progress and health impacts.
The Road Ahead
The Safe Drinking Water Act’s 50th anniversary reminds us of the importance of vigilance, innovation, and accountability in water quality management. Ridgewood Water is committed to overcoming challenges and fulfilling the SDWA’s vision of safe, reliable drinking water for all.
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Not only is the water SAFE to drink, it’s also EFFECTIVE.
Is this an early April Fool’s joke or what? Ridgewood Water is not safe to drink!
Define “safe.”
Ridgewood Water should receive zero accolades since it does not deliver PFOA or PFOS-free water, the water is hard and damaging to appliances, and there are insufficient quantities to irrigate our lawns in one of the nation’s premier residential communities (and it tastes bad). This is like a failed PR campaign where they are extolling the virtues of a terrible utility, and I think people may be buying it. Get out of the water business citizens, and demand accountability.
Captain Obvious to the rescue!
what amazing me is it took over 20 years from Ridgewood Water to be found out