We Don’t Have Enough Water to Meet Demand.

The Suffolk County Water Authority operates 60 wells across 18 well fields on the North Fork, supplying 9,500 customers. Despite conservation efforts, water demand on the North Fork continues to increase. Excessive demand strains infrastructure and negatively impacts our water source.

What’s Impacting the Supply?

• Most wells draw from the Upper Glacial Aquifer, which is vulnerable to contamination from pesticides, herbicides and rising chloride levels.
• Growing concerns over PFAS contamination are driving more private well users to seek public water.
• Over-pumping risks saltwater entering the freshwater aquifer, limiting expansion.

Our Strategic Plan

• A new 7.5 mile, 24-inch transmission line will bring pristine water to where we need it—right on the North Fork.
• New booster station for improved pressure and reliability.
• Project completion by 2028, with construction staged to minimize disruptions.

(Click map to enlarge • No connections will be made in the Riverhead Water District service area.)

Key Benefits:

• Cleaner Water: Pristine supply reduces the need for expensive future well treatments.
• Aquifer Protection: Eases use on North Fork wells, allowing the thin aquifer to recover.
• Saltwater Prevention: Protects fresh water for residents and the farming community.

Final Environmental Impact Statement (FEIS)

Project Assets