Newark, New Jersey Water Quality Guide: Lead Remediation Efforts
Comprehensive guide to Newark water quality, lead remediation programs, and current water safety status for residents.
Environmental Health Research
Health Information Reviewed
Health-related content reviewed by Michael Rodriguez, MSc, Public Health Consultant, to ensure public health recommendations are accurate and appropriate.
Last reviewed: April 2026
Water Source
Newark draws its water primarily from the Pequannock, Wanaque, and Passaic River watersheds, stored in a system of reservoirs including Charlotteburg, Echo Lake, and Canistear reservoirs in northern New Jersey. These protected watershed areas provide approximately 80 million gallons daily to Newark and surrounding communities. The city's water supply system, managed by the Newark Department of Water and Sewer Utilities, represents one of the oldest municipal water systems in the United States, with infrastructure dating back to the 1800s.
Water Treatment Process
Newark's water undergoes extensive treatment at the Pequannock Water Treatment Plant and other facilities. The process includes coagulation, sedimentation, and filtration to remove particulates. Following the lead crisis, the city implemented optimized corrosion control treatment using orthophosphate to create protective coatings inside pipes. Chlorine disinfection ensures microbiological safety, while pH adjustment helps control corrosivity. The water meets all federal and state drinking water standards at the treatment plant.
Known Issues and Lead Contamination History
Newark faced a significant lead contamination crisis beginning in 2016, with some samples showing lead levels exceeding 100 ppb (the EPA action level is 15 ppb). The crisis resulted from aging lead service lines and inadequate corrosion control.
- Lead service lines in older neighborhoods affected water quality
- Some homes showed lead levels exceeding 100 ppb during crisis
- Corrosion control treatment was initially inadequate
- Thousands of residents relied on bottled water during peak crisis
- Schools required filter installation and testing
- EPA issued emergency administrative order in 2019
- Some private-side lead plumbing remains in older buildings
Lead Remediation and Recent Improvements
Newark has undertaken one of the nation's most aggressive lead service line replacement programs, becoming a model for other cities facing similar challenges.
- Completed replacement of over 23,000 lead service lines by 2022
- Achieved lead levels below EPA action level since replacement completion
- Implemented enhanced corrosion control treatment
- Free water filters distributed to affected households
- Established comprehensive water testing program
- $120+ million invested in infrastructure improvements
- Ongoing monitoring exceeds federal requirements
- Community outreach and education programs expanded
EPA Compliance and Current Status
Following the extensive lead service line replacement program, Newark's water testing shows dramatic improvement. Recent 90th percentile lead levels have dropped below 5 ppb, well under the 15 ppb action level. The city continues enhanced monitoring with more frequent testing than federally required. Newark publishes quarterly water quality reports and maintains transparency about ongoing infrastructure work. The EPA has acknowledged Newark's aggressive response as a potential model for other cities.
Note: For the most current water quality data, view the Newark Water Quality Report which includes EPA SDWIS data and contaminant analysis.
Recommendations for Newark Residents
While municipal water quality has improved significantly, residents should remain informed about their specific situation and take appropriate precautions.
- 1Verify your service line has been replaced through city records
- 2Flush pipes by running cold water for 30 seconds before use
- 3Use certified lead-removing filters if in doubt about plumbing
- 4Test your water if you haven't done so recently
- 5Check for lead in interior plumbing in older buildings
- 6Review the city's quarterly water quality reports
- 7Contact the city for free water testing
- 8Never use hot tap water for drinking or cooking
Water Filter Options for Newark
Based on Newark's water quality profile, consider these filtration options:
Activated Carbon Filters
Good for improving taste, removing chlorine/chloramine, and filtering common organic compounds.
Reverse Osmosis Systems
Comprehensive filtration removing 95-99% of contaminants including lead, PFAS, and dissolved solids.
Related Resources
- Newark, New Jersey Water Quality Report
View current contaminant data and quality scores
- New Jersey State Water Quality Overview
Compare water quality across New Jersey cities
- Home Water Testing Guide
How to test your water at home
- Complete Guide to Lead in Drinking Water
Understanding lead risks and mitigation
- How to Choose the Right Water Filter
Filter recommendations by contaminant type
- Water Filter Cost Calculator
Calculate the cost of different filtration options