Is Fairfield Twp.-0605, NJ Tap Water Safe to Drink?
Graded F — but Copper was detected above EPA limits. Here's what's in the water and how to remove it. What to do next ↓
42/100
waterverge.com Fairfield Twp.-0605, NJ — Water Quality Report
Fairfield Twp.-0605's drinking water received a grade of F (42 out of 100), indicating failing water quality. The city's 3 water systems serve approximately 2,498 residents using groundwater.
Lead levels were measured at 8.3 ppb (90th percentile), which is within EPA limits but above recommended levels. This system has not yet been tested for PFAS under the EPA UCMR 5 program.
The system has 310 violations on record, including 7 health-based violations. 21 remain unresolved.
What to know about Fairfield Twp.-0605's water
Fairfield Twp.-0605 ranks #408 out of 435 cities in New Jersey for water quality, placing it among the lowest-rated in the state.
Fairfield Twp.-0605 relies on groundwater, which is generally less vulnerable to surface contamination but can be affected by naturally occurring minerals like arsenic and nitrate, as well as agricultural and industrial runoff.
While lead levels are within EPA limits, they are above the recommended 5 ppb threshold that health organizations consider ideal. A point-of-use filter adds an extra layer of protection.
As a small community water system, Fairfield Twp.-0605 may have fewer resources for advanced treatment technologies and infrastructure upgrades compared to larger utilities.
The system has seen 119 violations in the past five years, suggesting a pattern of compliance challenges that residents should monitor closely.
Water quality score
See methodology →Is Fairfield Twp.-0605, NJ water safe to drink?
Fairfield Twp.-0605's drinking water has significant quality concerns based on EPA testing data. With a grade of F (42/100), the system has issues across multiple categories. A water filter is recommended for all residents. The city's 3 water systems serve approximately 2,498 residents using groundwater (wells).
Recent water quality updates for Fairfield Twp.-0605
A timeline of significant water quality events, violations, and data updates.
Latest EPA compliance and testing data incorporated into Fairfield Twp.-0605's water quality assessment. Grade: F (42/100).
Contaminants: Revised Total Coliform Rule.
Contaminants: Revised Total Coliform Rule.
Contaminants: Lead and Copper Rule, Chlorine.
Federal disaster declaration (FEMA DR-4614). Hurricane event — may have impacted local water infrastructure.
Federal disaster declaration (FEMA DR-3573). Hurricane event — may have impacted local water infrastructure.
Key contaminant findings
Based on the most recent EPA sampling data for Fairfield Twp.-0605's water supply.
Within EPA limits but above the American Academy of Pediatrics recommended level of 1 ppb. An NSF 53-certified filter provides additional protection.
Exceeds EPA action level. Copper can leach from household plumbing — flush taps for 30 seconds before drinking.
Violation history
Fairfield Twp.-0605's water system has 310 total violations on record, including 7 health-based violations. 21 remain unresolved. 119 violations were issued in the last 5 years.
Flood & environmental risk
Cumberland County has experienced 10 federally declared disasters since 1992. Flooding and severe storms can overwhelm water treatment plants, cause sewage overflows, and introduce agricultural runoff, bacteria, and sediment into drinking water supplies. Local water sources include Maurice River At Norma, Cohansey River At Seeley.
Where does Fairfield Twp.-0605's water come from?
Fairfield Twp.-0605's drinking water comes from groundwater (wells), supplied by 3 water systems serving approximately 2,498 people. Groundwater is generally less susceptible to surface contamination but can contain naturally occurring contaminants like arsenic, radon, and nitrate. Nearby water bodies include Maurice River At Norma (river), Cohansey River At Seeley (river).
What Fairfield Twp.-0605 residents can do
Recommended: NSF-certified water filter. This addresses the specific contaminants found in Fairfield Twp.-0605's water.
Your water utility is required to publish an annual Consumer Confidence Report (CCR) with detailed testing results. Ask for the latest copy or check your utility's website.
Run cold water for 30 seconds before drinking, especially in the morning. Lead and copper leach from household plumbing when water sits in pipes.
Fairfield Twp.-0605's area has a history of flooding. After severe weather, watch for boil water advisories from your local utility.
Data: EPA SDWIS, UCMR 5 (PFAS), FEMA, NOAA. Last updated May 2026.
Top contaminants to know
View all ↓Violation summary
Violations & advisories
Drought conditions
D2 — severe droughtCumberland County is currently in D2 (severe drought) per the U.S. Drought Monitor (week of May 5, 2026). Drought can elevate disinfection-byproduct (TTHM/HAA5) levels and taste/odor issues as utilities draw from lower reservoirs.
Source: U.S. Drought Monitor, updated weekly by NDMC, USDA, and NOAA.
Flood & disaster history
Cumberland County has experienced 10 federally declared disasters since 1992. Flooding and severe weather can compromise water treatment infrastructure and introduce contaminants into drinking water supplies.
Recommended water filters
Based on contaminants detected in Fairfield Twp.-0605's water supply, we recommend the following filter types.
Full contaminants report
| Contaminant | Detected Level | EPA Limit | Unit | Category | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lead (90th percentile) LeadHeavy Metal A toxic heavy metal that can leach into drinking water from older pipes, solder, and fixtures. No amount of lead in water is considered safe. Health EffectsBrain and nervous system damage in children, kidney damage, high blood pressure, and reproductive problems in adults. EPA Limit15 ppb action level Common SourcesCorrosion of lead pipes, lead solder, brass faucets, and household plumbing. | 8.3 | 15 | ppb | Inorganic | Safe |
| Copper (90th percentile) CopperInorganic A metal that enters drinking water mainly through corrosion of copper plumbing. Small amounts are essential for health, but excess levels are harmful. Health EffectsGastrointestinal distress (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea) at short-term high levels; liver and kidney damage from long-term exposure. EPA Limit1.3 mg/L action level Common SourcesCorrosion of copper household plumbing, erosion of natural deposits. | 4.89 | 1.3 | mg/L | Inorganic | Over Limit |
Lead level trend (90th percentile)
Copper level trend (90th percentile)
See how Fairfield Twp.-0605 compares by contaminant
Explore where Fairfield Twp.-0605 ranks among all New Jersey cities for specific contaminants.
Water source & infrastructure
Where Fairfield Twp.-0605's water comes from
Fairfield Twp.-0605's drinking water is drawn from underground aquifers through wells.
Groundwater is naturally filtered through rock and soil layers, generally requiring less treatment than surface water. However, it can contain naturally occurring contaminants like arsenic, radon, and minerals.
Agricultural activity, septic systems, and industrial operations near well fields can introduce nitrates, pesticides, and volatile organic compounds.
The system is operated by federal ownership and serves approximately 2,498 people through 3 water systems.
Water bodies near Fairfield Twp.-0605
Fairfield Twp.-0605 is located near 2 notable water bodies. These water bodies contribute to the regional watershed and may indirectly affect groundwater quality.
Water systems serving Fairfield Twp.-0605
| System Name | PWSID | Population | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| FAIRTON FEDERAL CORRECTIONAL | NJ0605004 | 1,841 | GW |
| EVERGREEN ESTATES | NJ0605002 | 450 | GW |
| FAIRTON OAKS M H COMMUNITY | NJ0605001 | 207 | GW |
How Fairfield Twp.-0605 compares
Full New Jersey rankings →Fairfield Twp.-0605's score of 42/100 is below the average of 63/100 among major New Jersey cities. 10 of 10 nearby cities score higher.
Nearby cities
View New Jersey rankings →About Fairfield Twp.-0605, NJ
Learn more about your water
Guides and resources related to Fairfield Twp.-0605's water quality findings.
Explore water quality across Cumberland
Frequently asked questions
Is Fairfield Twp.-0605, NJ tap water safe to drink?
Fairfield Twp.-0605's water quality earned a grade of F (42/100). Significant issues have been found. A water filter is strongly recommended. The city ranks #408 out of 435 cities tested in New Jersey.
What contaminants are in Fairfield Twp.-0605's water?
Lead was measured at 8.3 ppb (90th percentile). 310 violations are on record.
How is Fairfield Twp.-0605's water quality grade calculated?
The grade is based on four factors: violation history (40%), lead and copper levels (25%), PFAS contamination (25%), and regulatory compliance (10%). The score is also adjusted based on how complete the available data is. See our methodology page for full details.
Do I need a water filter in Fairfield Twp.-0605?
While lead levels are within EPA limits, a filter adds extra protection. Based on current data, basic filtration should suffice for additional peace of mind.
Where does Fairfield Twp.-0605's water come from?
Fairfield Twp.-0605's water is sourced from Groundwater. The city has 3 water systems serving approximately 2,498 residents.
What health violations has Fairfield Twp.-0605's water system had?
Fairfield Twp.-0605 has 7 health-based violations on record. The most recent violation was recorded in April 2025. Health-based violations mean the water exceeded EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) for a regulated substance. 21 violations remain unresolved.
Is Fairfield Twp.-0605's groundwater at risk of contamination?
Fairfield Twp.-0605 uses groundwater, which can be affected by naturally occurring contaminants like arsenic, radon, and nitrate, as well as agricultural runoff and industrial activity. The system has 310 violations on record that may relate to groundwater quality. Groundwater systems are generally less susceptible to surface contamination but should be monitored for emerging contaminants like PFAS.
How does Fairfield Twp.-0605's water compare to other cities?
Fairfield Twp.-0605 ranks #408 out of 435 cities in New Jersey (better than 6% of state cities) and #14892 out of 15744 cities nationally (5th percentile). The grade of F reflects the combined assessment of violation history, lead and copper levels, PFAS contamination, and regulatory compliance.