BY NATHAN MAYBERG
WEST MILFORD — Well water at two West Milford town facilities has violated state drinking water standards due to the presence of coliform bacteria. The town has sent out letters to residents notifying them of the test results which were confirmed last month.
The bacteria levels showed up on multiples tests of the water on different dates at both the Hillcrest Community Center and Bubbling Springs Park.
The town has started chlorinating the water, in order to dilute the bacteria. More tests are scheduled for this month. The town hopes to remedy the situation by September.
The water poses an increased risk to those with compromised immune systems, infants and the elderly, according to the notices sent out by the town. The notice said "this is not an immediate risk." The water tested negative for E. coli.
The notice tells residents they don't need to use bottled water as a substitute, though West Milford Mayor Bettina Bieri said she was told that water bottles may be available.
Town administrator Kenneth Gabbert said "the water is drinkable." He has had experience with water issues in other towns and said they typically occur in the summer. "Usually, it clears up pretty fast."
Gabbert said the bacteria found in the tests are "a sign there could be a problem."
The bacteria in the water has not stopped the town from operating Bubbling Springs Park as normal. The lake at the park continues to stay in use for swimming. There is a summer day camp at the park and other recreational activities including the Concerts Under the Stars. The Hillcrest Community Center has activities for seniors including a nutrition program and is used as a meeting place by community groups, including the P.R.I.D.E. program for disabled adults.
Kathryn Coyman, a registered environmental health specialist with the West Milford Health Department, said bottled water is being used at the Hillcrest site for the senior nutritional program and that bottled water is for sale at Bubbling Springs Park.
The park’s lake is from a different water source than the well water, Coyman said. The lake is tested weekly and is not in violation of state standards, she said. The lake is chlorinated and is being treated with a pesticide to combat algae.
Coyman said the state will be notifying the town of their noncompliance with drinking water standards at the site. The water testing is mandated by the state.
The town is directing residents to call the EPA Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 1-800-426-4791 for more information.
Coyman recommended that all homeowners with a well have their water tested regularly.