Rowan University is committed to keeping the University community informed about campus water quality.

• Technical/Lab Results, from November 2016 through August 2017
• Summaries of the Lab Results
• How to Read Water Quality Lab Results
• For past results, contact officeofthepresident@rowan.edu

Background

In July 2016, Rowan detected lead in the water of Linden Hall, one of its older buildings, which prompted testing in nearby buildings to determine if the issue existed elsewhere. Sample tests indicated it did, and the University notified the Rowan community about the issue at the end of August and formulated an action plan.

Upon learning of the problem, and after consulting with the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection and water-quality experts, the University committed to developing a comprehensive study that included testing all potable water sources (water meant for consumption) and to map and examine all the plumbing systems across campus. The goal was to determine which buildings were impacted and, if they were, the source of lead contamination.

It is important to note that the Borough of Glassboro’s water-quality tests do not indicate elevated lead levels in municipal water.

Because developing and executing the comprehensive action plan would take months, the University took “grab” samples of water throughout campus in August and September 2016, testing at least one faucet/water outlet in each building. Although they do not meet standard protocols for water testing, grab samples simulate the habits of people getting a drink from a fountain or faucet (not running the water before drinking it) and provide some immediate insight into water status in particular locations. The grab samples provided a preliminary indication of the water quality across campus.

Working with a certified water-quality testing firm, the University conducted comprehensive water testing from November 2016 through August 2017. Samples collected were evaluated at independent labs following federal protocols.