Buried Valley Aquifer System facts for kids
The Buried Valley Aquifer System is like a giant underground sponge that holds a lot of water. This special water source is found deep beneath the ground in central New Jersey, specifically in the area where the Passaic River flows. It's super important because it provides drinking water for many towns and cities – about twenty-six of them! These towns are spread across four northern New Jersey counties: Morris, Union, Essex, and Somerset.
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What is an Aquifer?
Imagine a huge underground storage tank for water. That's kind of what an aquifer is! It's a layer of rock, sand, or gravel that can hold and move groundwater. Think of it like a giant natural filter and reservoir all in one. When rain falls, some of it soaks into the ground and slowly travels down until it reaches these special layers. The water then fills up the tiny spaces between the rocks and sand, creating a hidden underground water supply.
Why are Buried Valley Aquifers Special?
The Buried Valley Aquifer System is a specific type called a "buried valley aquifer." This means it formed in old river valleys that were later filled in with sand, gravel, and clay, often after glaciers melted a long, long time ago. These buried valleys are excellent at storing water because the sand and gravel layers let water flow easily, while the clay layers above and below can help keep the water clean and protected.
Where is the Buried Valley Aquifer System Located?
This important water system is located in the central part of the Passaic River watershed in New Jersey. A watershed is like a big bowl where all the rain and snowmelt drain into a common river or lake. So, the Buried Valley Aquifer System is part of the larger area that collects water for the Passaic River.
Who Manages This Water Source?
Important groups like the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency help define and protect this aquifer. They make sure the water stays clean and safe for everyone who uses it.
What Areas Does It Cover?
The Buried Valley Aquifer System has clear boundaries, like the edges of a map.
- To the north, it's bordered by a place called Hook Mountain, which is made of a type of rock formed from ancient lava flows. The boundary also goes through the town of Montville.
- To the west, the boundary follows a geological line called the Ramapo Fault. This fault marks where the land changes and the Highlands Physiographic Province begins.
- To the south and east, the system is bordered by the Second Watchung Mountain range. This includes parts of Union, Essex, and Somerset Counties in New Jersey.
Towns and Cities That Use This Water
Many communities rely on the Buried Valley Aquifer System for their daily water needs. Here are the municipalities located within this important water supply area:
- In Essex County:
* Caldwell * East Orange * Essex Fells * Fairfield * Irvington * Livingston * Maplewood * Millburn * North Caldwell * Roseland * West Caldwell * West Orange
- In Morris County:
* Chatham (borough) * Chatham Township * East Hanover * Florham Park * Hanover * Harding Township * Madison * Montville * Morris Plains * Morristown * Morris Township * Parsippany-Troy Hills * Passaic Township
- In Somerset County:
* Bernards Township * Warren Township
- In Union County:
