Understanding Long Island’s Water Starts Beneath Our Feet
Long Island depends on groundwater aquifers for its drinking water. That makes protecting, testing, and understanding our water supply one of the most important public health issues facing Nassau and Suffolk County.
Our Sole-Source Aquifer System
Unlike many regions that draw drinking water from rivers, reservoirs, or lakes, Long Island relies almost entirely on underground aquifers. Rainwater slowly filters through soil and sand, eventually reaching layers of groundwater that supply public wells and private wells across the Island.
Common Long Island Water Quality Concerns
PFAS “Forever Chemicals”
PFAS are a family of man-made chemicals associated with products such as nonstick coatings, stain-resistant materials, firefighting foam, packaging, and industrial uses. They are called “forever chemicals” because many do not easily break down in the environment.
Chlorine & Disinfection Byproducts
Chlorine is commonly used to disinfect public water. While disinfection is important, some households are concerned about chlorine taste, odor, skin irritation, and byproducts that may form when disinfectants react with organic matter.
Ground Contamination
Long Island’s groundwater can be affected by septic discharge, lawn chemicals, fuel spills, industrial sites, dry cleaners, landfills, road runoff, and legacy contamination from older commercial activity.
Nitrates
Nitrates can come from fertilizer, wastewater, and septic systems. Elevated nitrate levels are especially concerning for infants, pregnant women, and vulnerable populations.
Hard Water & Minerals
Hardness minerals can contribute to scale buildup, appliance wear, cloudy fixtures, soap residue, dry skin, and reduced efficiency in plumbing and heating equipment.
Plumbing-Related Issues
Even when water leaves the utility in compliance, older pipes, failing water heaters, corroded fixtures, sediment, and private well conditions can affect what comes out of the tap.
Learn More by Topic
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What Long Island Homeowners Should Consider
- Review your local water quality reports.
- Know whether you are on public water or private well water.
- Test private wells regularly through qualified labs.
- Pay attention to taste, odor, staining, scaling, and plumbing corrosion.
- Understand that filtration needs may vary by home, location, plumbing, and personal concerns.
Public Sources & Related Information
For official guidance and deeper research, start with these public resources: