Long Island sees gradual improvement in drinking water quality

A recent report indicates that drinking water quality on Long Island is gradually improving, attributed to strict state and federal regulations and mandatory chemical filtering by water suppliers. Despite some water districts exceeding safety limits, the overall trend shows that water quality is meeting or surpassing established standards. Local residents emphasize the importance of clean water, viewing it as a basic human right, and the Suffolk County Water Authority confirms that treated water is compliant with safety regulations. The report highlights the challenges posed by the region's unique water usage patterns, with Long Islanders consuming significantly more water than the national average, largely due to lawn irrigation and golf courses. This increased demand places additional stress on Long Island's sole aquifer, which is a finite resource. Since 2015, the Citizens Campaign for the Environment has been monitoring harmful chemicals, such as 1-4 dioxane and PFAs, which are linked to serious health risks. While there is optimism regarding the progress made in water quality, water suppliers face financial challenges in filtering out these contaminants. The process is costly and requires ongoing state funding to ensure continued improvements. An interactive map has been developed to help residents monitor the presence of forever chemicals in their communities, promoting public awareness and engagement. Last year, the village of Hempstead reported the highest levels of 1-4 dioxane, while the western Nassau County water district had the most significant presence of PFAs. The report serves as a reminder of the ongoing efforts needed to maintain and enhance drinking water safety in the region.