Water Quality: Nashua, NH

Increases blood pressure and causes cardiovascular effects with long-term exposure.

Common source: Natural rock deposits, oil drilling operations, coal power plant waste

EPA limit: 2 mg/L

Can cause anemia in infants and young children; may cause nervous system effects at high levels.

Common source: Water treatment disinfectant used to control taste, odor, and microorganisms

EPA limit: 0.8 mg/L

Short-term exposure causes gastrointestinal distress; long-term exposure can cause liver and kidney damage.

Common source: Corrosion of household plumbing systems and fixtures

EPA limit: Action Level: 1.3 mg/L (1,300 ppb)

Broad category of chemicals formed during disinfection, associated with increased cancer risk and adverse reproductive effects.

Common source: Reaction of disinfectants (chlorine, ozone, chloramines) with organic matter

Causes gastrointestinal illness; certain strains (e.g., O157:H7) can cause severe kidney failure and death.

Common source: Fecal contamination from humans or animals entering the water supply

EPA limit: Zero (no E. coli permitted in drinking water)

Haloacetic acids are associated with increased cancer risk and potential reproductive and developmental effects.

Common source: Reaction of chlorine disinfectants with organic matter in treated water

EPA limit: 0.060 mg/L (60 ppb)