WaterVerge

Is Maurice River Twp.-0609, NJ Tap Water Safe to Drink?

Graded B+, with 7 unresolved violations on record. See what was cited — and what it means for your tap. What to do next ↓

2K residents served 1 water system PWSID: NJ0609001
Overall Score
84.2 / 100
Violations
7 active
Last Updated
May 2026
Source
Groundwater
#61 of 435 in New Jersey Top 39% nationally
State
High data confidence
Reviewed by WaterVerge Editorial Team · Last updated May 2026
B+GRADE
Water Quality Grade
84.2/100
waterverge.com
B+ 84.2/100

Maurice River Twp.-0609, NJ — Water Quality Report

Maurice River Twp.-0609's drinking water received a grade of B+ (84.2 out of 100), indicating good water quality. The city's 1 water system serves approximately 1,679 residents using groundwater.

Lead levels were measured at 0.0 ppb (90th percentile), well within EPA limits. UCMR 5 testing detected 1 PFAS compound in the water supply.

The system has 94 violations on record, including 3 health-based violations. 7 remain unresolved.

Data last updated: May 2026 · Source: EPA SDWIS, UCMR 5
Analysis

What to know about Maurice River Twp.-0609's water

Maurice River Twp.-0609 ranks #61 out of 435 cities in New Jersey for water quality, placing it above average in the state.

Maurice River Twp.-0609 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.

PFAS compounds were detected in testing, though levels remain within current EPA limits. Residents seeking extra precaution may consider an activated carbon or reverse osmosis filter.

As a small community water system, Maurice River Twp.-0609 may have fewer resources for advanced treatment technologies and infrastructure upgrades compared to larger utilities.

Quality Breakdown

Water quality score

See methodology →
84.2 out of 100 Grade B+
A: 90-100
B: 74-89
C: 60-73
F: <50
How is this calculated?
Violations
36.9/45
B
Historical violation record including health-based and monitoring violations.
Lead & Copper
20/20
A
Lead at 0.0 ppb (90th percentile).
Contaminants
14.2/20
C
1 PFAS compound detected.
Compliance
8/10
B
Monitoring and reporting compliance with EPA regulations.
Source Risk
5/5
A
Water source: Groundwater.
Water Safety

Is Maurice River Twp.-0609, NJ water safe to drink?

Concerns Identified

Maurice River Twp.-0609's drinking water has significant quality concerns based on EPA testing data. With a grade of B+ (84.2/100), the system has issues across multiple categories. A water filter is recommended for all residents. The city's 1 water system serves approximately 1,679 residents using groundwater (wells).

7
Active Violations
0.0 ppb
Lead (90th %ile)
1 compound
PFAS Detected
10 events
Disaster History

Recent water quality updates for Maurice River Twp.-0609

A timeline of significant water quality events, violations, and data updates.

PFAS
1 PFAS "forever chemical" compound detected

Detected at levels within current EPA limits. PFAS persist indefinitely in the environment.

Update
Water quality data updated

Latest EPA compliance and testing data incorporated into Maurice River Twp.-0609's water quality assessment. Grade: B+ (84.2/100).

Violation
3 drinking water violations recorded

Contaminants: CYANIDE.

Disaster
REMNANTS OF HURRICANE IDA

Federal disaster declaration (FEMA DR-4614). Hurricane event — may have impacted local water infrastructure.

Disaster
REMNANTS OF HURRICANE IDA

Federal disaster declaration (FEMA DR-3573). Hurricane event — may have impacted local water infrastructure.

Violation
1 drinking water violation recorded

Contaminants: Consumer Confidence Rule.

Key contaminant findings

Based on the most recent EPA sampling data for Maurice River Twp.-0609's water supply.

Lead Within Limits
Detected: 0.0 ppb Limit: 15 ppb (EPA Action Level)

Well within EPA limits.

PFAS (1 compound) Elevated
Detected: Highest: lithium at 18.2000 µg/L Limit: 0.004 µg/L (EPA MCL)

Detected but within current EPA limits. PFAS do not break down in the environment and can accumulate in the body over time. An activated carbon filter can reduce exposure.

Violation history

Maurice River Twp.-0609's water system has 94 total violations on record, including 3 health-based violations. 7 remain unresolved. 3 violations were issued in the last 5 years.

MROtherRPTMCL
Most recent violations:
Jan 2023 CYANIDE Resolved
Jan 2023 CYANIDE Resolved
Jan 2023 CYANIDE Resolved
Jul 2020 Consumer Confidence Rule Open
Oct 2019 Revised Total Coliform Rule Open

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 Manumuskin River At Cumberland.

REMNANTS OF HURRICANE IDA
Hurricane FEMA DR-4614
REMNANTS OF HURRICANE IDA
Hurricane FEMA DR-3573
TROPICAL STORM ISAIAS
Hurricane FEMA DR-4574

Where does Maurice River Twp.-0609's water come from?

Maurice River Twp.-0609's drinking water comes from groundwater (wells), supplied by 1 water system serving approximately 1,679 people. Groundwater is generally less susceptible to surface contamination but can contain naturally occurring contaminants like arsenic, radon, and nitrate. Nearby water bodies include Manumuskin River At Cumberland (river).

What Maurice River Twp.-0609 residents can do

Install a water filter

Recommended: Activated carbon or reverse osmosis filter. This addresses the specific contaminants found in Maurice River Twp.-0609's water.

Request your utility's CCR

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.

Monitor alerts during storms

Maurice River Twp.-0609'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.

Contaminant Alerts

Top contaminants to know

View all ↓
Lead (90th percentile)
Inorganic / Heavy Metal
Safe
0.0 ppb
EPA Action Level: 15 ppb · 0% of limit
Safe Level
lithium
PFAS / Forever Chemical
Near MCL
18.2000 µg/L
EPA MCL: 0.004 µg/L · +20% over limit
Detected
Lithium
Inorganic
Detected
18.2 µg/L
State screening level: 60 µg/L · 30% of limit
DetectedNo federal MCLUCMR 5 Data (2023–2025)
PFAS Testing

Forever chemicals overview

National PFAS report →
30
Compounds tested
1
Detected
0
Exceed EPA MCL
Compliance Record

Violation summary

94
Total violations
3
Health-based
7
Active / unresolved
Jan 2023
Most recent violation
Compliance Record

Violations & advisories

94 Total
7 Active
3 Health-based
87 Resolved
Violations by category
Volatile Organic Chemicals
42
Inorganic Chemicals
26
Total Coliform Rule
6
Nitrate Rule
6
Stage 1 Disinfectants and Disinfection Byproducts Rule
4
Jul 2020 Active
Consumer Confidence Rule
Other Violation 0
Oct 2019 Active
Revised Total Coliform Rule
Reporting
Reporting 0
Jan 2018 Active
Revised Total Coliform Rule
Reporting
Reporting 0
Jul 2015 Active
Consumer Confidence Rule
Other Violation 0
Jul 2013 Active
E. COLI
Monitoring & Reporting
Monitoring & Reporting 0
Jul 2012 Active
Consumer Confidence Rule
Other Violation 0
Active
Compliance Violation
Monitoring 0
Jan 2023 Resolved
CYANIDE
Monitoring & Reporting
Monitoring & Reporting Resolved Dec 2025
Jan 2023 Resolved
CYANIDE
Monitoring & Reporting
Monitoring & Reporting Resolved Dec 2025
Jan 2023 Resolved
CYANIDE
Monitoring & Reporting
Monitoring & Reporting Resolved Dec 2025
Aug 2014 Resolved
Coliform (TCR)
Max Contaminant Level
Health-Based Health Resolved Aug 2014
Apr 2014 Resolved
Chlorine
Monitoring & Reporting
Monitoring & Reporting Resolved Jun 2014
Jan 2014 Resolved
Chlorine
Monitoring & Reporting
Monitoring & Reporting Resolved Mar 2014
Jul 2013 Resolved
Coliform (TCR)
Max Contaminant Level
Health-Based Health Resolved Jul 2013
Aug 2011 Resolved
Coliform (TCR)
Max Contaminant Level
Health-Based Health Resolved Aug 2011
Feb 2005 Resolved
Coliform (TCR)
Monitoring & Reporting
Monitoring & Reporting Resolved Feb 2005
Oct 2004 Resolved
DICHLOROMETHANE
Monitoring & Reporting
Monitoring & Reporting Resolved Dec 2004
Oct 2004 Resolved
p-Dichlorobenzene
Monitoring & Reporting
Monitoring & Reporting Resolved Dec 2004
Oct 2004 Resolved
1,2-Dichloroethane
Monitoring & Reporting
Monitoring & Reporting Resolved Dec 2004
Oct 2004 Resolved
Carbon tetrachloride
Monitoring & Reporting
Monitoring & Reporting Resolved Dec 2004
Showing 20 of 94 violations
Environmental Risk

Drought conditions

D2 — severe drought

Cumberland 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.

2
Weeks at D2+ (current streak)
5.9%
Months in D2+ (last 30y)
5
Weeks at D2+ (last 5y)

Source: U.S. Drought Monitor, updated weekly by NDMC, USDA, and NOAA.

Environmental Risk

Flood & disaster history

10
Declared disasters
Sep 2021
Most recent
Hurricane
Most common type

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.

Sep 2021
REMNANTS OF HURRICANE IDA
Hurricane FEMA #4614
Sep 2021
REMNANTS OF HURRICANE IDA
Hurricane FEMA #3573
Dec 2020
TROPICAL STORM ISAIAS
Hurricane FEMA #4574
Oct 2012
HURRICANE SANDY
Hurricane FEMA #4086
Oct 2012
HURRICANE SANDY
Hurricane FEMA #3354
Aug 2011
HURRICANE IRENE
Hurricane FEMA #4021

Recommended water filters

Based on contaminants detected in Maurice River Twp.-0609's water supply, we recommend the following filter types.

🧪
For PFAS
Reverse Osmosis or Activated Carbon Block
1 PFAS compound detected

Full contaminants report

Contaminant Detected Level EPA Limit Unit Category Status
Lead (90th percentile) 0.0 15 ppb Inorganic Safe
11Cl-PF3OUdS ND HI µg/L PFAS Not Detected
4:2 FTS ND HI µg/L PFAS Not Detected
6:2 FTS ND HI µg/L PFAS Not Detected
8:2 FTS ND HI µg/L PFAS Not Detected
9Cl-PF3ONS ND HI µg/L PFAS Not Detected
ADONA ND HI µg/L PFAS Not Detected
HFPO-DA ND 0.01 µg/L PFAS Not Detected
lithium 18.200 HI µg/L PFAS Detected
NEtFOSAA ND HI µg/L PFAS Not Detected
NFDHA ND HI µg/L PFAS Not Detected
NMeFOSAA ND HI µg/L PFAS Not Detected
PFBA ND HI µg/L PFAS Not Detected
PFBS ND HI µg/L PFAS Not Detected
PFDA ND HI µg/L PFAS Not Detected
PFDoA ND HI µg/L PFAS Not Detected
PFEESA ND HI µg/L PFAS Not Detected
PFHpA ND HI µg/L PFAS Not Detected
PFHpS ND HI µg/L PFAS Not Detected
PFHxA ND HI µg/L PFAS Not Detected
PFHxS ND HI µg/L PFAS Not Detected
PFMBA ND HI µg/L PFAS Not Detected
PFMPA ND HI µg/L PFAS Not Detected
PFNA ND HI µg/L PFAS Not Detected
PFOA ND 0.004 µg/L PFAS Not Detected
PFOS ND 0.004 µg/L PFAS Not Detected
PFPeA ND HI µg/L PFAS Not Detected
PFPeS ND HI µg/L PFAS Not Detected
PFTA ND HI µg/L PFAS Not Detected
PFTrDA ND HI µg/L PFAS Not Detected
PFUnA ND HI µg/L PFAS Not Detected
Data source: EPA SDWIS, UCMR 5, local utility CCR.

Lead level trend (90th percentile)

EPA action level: 15 ppb
Lead has decreased by 5.0 ppb from 1993 (5.0 ppb) to 2024 (0.0 ppb).
Contaminant Rankings

See how Maurice River Twp.-0609 compares by contaminant

Explore where Maurice River Twp.-0609 ranks among all New Jersey cities for specific contaminants.

Infrastructure

Water source & infrastructure

Primary Source
Groundwater
Operator
State
Population Served
1,679
Water Systems
1
Water Source

Where Maurice River Twp.-0609's water comes from

Groundwater

Maurice River Twp.-0609'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 state ownership and serves approximately 1,679 people through 1 water system.

Local Hydrology

Water bodies near Maurice River Twp.-0609

Maurice River Twp.-0609 is located near 1 notable water body. These water bodies contribute to the regional watershed and may indirectly affect groundwater quality.

Manumuskin River At Cumberland
river
Infrastructure

Water systems serving Maurice River Twp.-0609

System Name PWSID Population Source
NJ STATE PRISON BAYSIDE NJ0609001 1,679 GW
Regional Comparison

How Maurice River Twp.-0609 compares

Full New Jersey rankings →

Maurice River Twp.-0609's score of 84.2/100 is above the average of 63/100 among major New Jersey cities. It outscores 10 of 10 nearby cities.

Maurice River Twp.-0609 (this city)
84.2
New Jersey avg
63
City Profile

About Maurice River Twp.-0609, NJ

Wikipedia →

Leesburg is an unincorporated community and census-designated place (CDP) located within Maurice River Township in Cumberland County, in the U.S. state of New Jersey. The area is served as United States Postal Service ZIP Code 08327.

Economic Profile
$76,310
Median Income
3.9%
Unemployment
Community
57.8
Median Age
70
People / sq mi
18.4%
College Educated
81%
Homeownership
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Frequently asked questions

Is Maurice River Twp.-0609, NJ tap water safe to drink?

Maurice River Twp.-0609's water quality earned a grade of B+ (84.2/100). The water generally meets EPA standards and is considered safe for consumption. The city ranks #61 out of 435 cities tested in New Jersey.

What contaminants are in Maurice River Twp.-0609's water?

Lead was measured at 0.0 ppb (90th percentile). 1 PFAS compound was detected. 94 violations are on record.

How is Maurice River Twp.-0609'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 Maurice River Twp.-0609?

PFAS compounds have been detected. A filter with activated carbon can help reduce exposure.

Where does Maurice River Twp.-0609's water come from?

Maurice River Twp.-0609's water is sourced from Groundwater. The city has 1 water system serving approximately 1,679 residents.

What health violations has Maurice River Twp.-0609's water system had?

Maurice River Twp.-0609 has 3 health-based violations on record. The most recent violation was recorded in January 2023. Health-based violations mean the water exceeded EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) for a regulated substance. 7 violations remain unresolved.

Is Maurice River Twp.-0609's groundwater at risk of contamination?

Maurice River Twp.-0609 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 94 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 Maurice River Twp.-0609's water compare to other cities?

Maurice River Twp.-0609 ranks #61 out of 435 cities in New Jersey (better than 86% of state cities) and #6051 out of 15744 cities nationally (62th percentile). The grade of B+ reflects the combined assessment of violation history, lead and copper levels, PFAS contamination, and regulatory compliance.

Does Maurice River Twp.-0609's small water system affect quality?

Maurice River Twp.-0609's system serves approximately 1,679 residents. Small community water systems (under 3,300 people) may have fewer financial resources for infrastructure upgrades and advanced treatment technologies. However, they are held to the same EPA drinking water standards as larger systems. This system has 94 violations on record.