Most residences in the Township of Franklin have private wells and septic systems. Currently there is some concern about the wells supplied by the Cohansey Aquifer, which includes most of the Township.
The reason for this concern is that a small percentage of wells (less than 200 feet deep) had mercury levels above the recommended standard. Also radioactive substances occurring naturally in ground water, such as radium, uranium, thorium and the elevated presence of nitrates associated with the use of chemicals have been found. These substances are believed to increase the amount of radioactivity that dissolves into groundwater. Residents can take steps to ensure their water supply is safe.
For this reason Township Committee recommends that you have your well tested at least once a year.
A private laboratory should test the well. The Gloucester County Department of Health & Senior Services, Division of Health Services can help you in this process and recommend a testing service. They can be reached at 856-262-4220. Information on well testing can be found at www.state.nj.us/dep/pwta/ (http://www NULL.state NULL.nj NULL.us/dep/pwta/) . You can also call the Township Department of Community Development at 856-694-1234, ext. 154 if have any questions related to water quality and well testing.