Drinking Water

“Water” refers to potable water (i.e., drinking water), or water that is safe for consumption. Drinking water comes from a variety of sources and is treated to meet state and federal standards for consumption. Ensuring safe and healthy drinking water is regulated by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The EPA establishes maximum contaminant levels for various contaminants. There are nearly 600 community water systems, which provide drinking water to approximately 87% of New Jersey’s population.