The project was funded by a grant from the Fund for New Jersey. Testing for toxins varies widely and some wastewater facilities test only once every 4-5 years. No ocean discharge limits exist for concentrations of priority pollutants. Public access to information is difficult and official records are incomplete or mislabeled. In fact, COA's data set is now the most complete in the state for these dischargers.
Public education is needed.
In addition, the study found that the Jersey shore is at a crossroad. The state has just begun a wastewater reuse program without public input and scrutiny. Special thanks go to Ellen Falvo, our research associate that conducted initial research.