Well Tests Offered by Twp. After Farmer's Fertilizer Spill

The Washington Township Health Department is offering residents an inexpensive well test for homeowners who may have been, or feel they could have been affected by a chemical spill in Long Valley recently.

On March 18, a farmer on West Mill Road encountered a malfunctioning valve on a tanker, which resulted in the spill of 4,5000 gallons of nitrogen fertilizer. The liquid, known as Uran – comprised of ammonia, nitrate, urea and water – made its way into the South Branch of the Raritan River.

Tests done that day showed no ill effects to the river or surrounding wildlife, but the township released a statement saying, in part, “The chemical released was ammonium nitrate.  Nitrates are considered a pollutant.  Ingestion of large amounts may cause gastrointestinal irritation and can be concerning for pregnant women and those who have infants at home.”

The township said residents in the area with a surface well or spring well and live near the South Branch of the Raritan River may have their drinking water impacted. Because of this, an “inexpensive well test for nitrates” is being offered by the health department.

No complaints or summonses were lodged against the farmer after the incident.

For more information about a well test, call the Washington Township Health Department at 908-876-3650, or go here.