Chromium 6

There has been a number of inquiries regarding Chromium 6 in Madison's water supply. The Borough of Madison follows guidance and requirements from state and federal agencies to ensure that our water meets all standards that are set forth.

Our Health Officer and Foreman of the Water Utility have determined, through required tests, that Madison’s water tests show chromium levels well below the required guidelines.

The United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) regulates total chromium in drinking water and has set a ‘Maximum Contaminant Level’ (MCL) of 0.1 mg/L (milligrams per liter), or 1000 ppb (parts per billion). The World Health Organization (WHO) has adopted stricter guidelines for total chromium of 0.05 mg/L, or 50 ppb. Currently, as per our latest chromium test, it showed chromium levels of 2.1 ppb, well below the universal standards.

When looking at these results, it is important to compare apples to apples. In this case, it is helpful to understand the difference between mg/L versus ppb. One part per billion is the equivalent of one second in every 32 years.

We encourage you to view the 2020 Water Quality Report, our latest report, here, or the 2019 Water Quality Report, here or the 2018 Water Quality report here.

The following link from the American Water Works Association has helpful information on this important topic.

Our constant goal is to provide you with a safe and dependable supply of drinking water. We want you to understand the efforts we make to continually improve the water treatment process and protect our water resources. We are committed to ensuring the quality of your water.