Why Asphalt Is Dangerous in the Pine Barrens
Asphalt contains petroleum binders,
PAHs (polycyclic aromatic
hydrocarbons), VOCs, and PFAS, all of which leach into the ground as asphalt breaks down.
In the Pine Barrens, these chemicals:
- Travel quickly through sugar sand
- Reach private wells
- Enter the Kirkwood-Cohansey
Aquifer
• Never break down (PFAS =
"forever chemicals")
Asphalt is an impervious surface, meaning it blocks natural water flow, increases runoff, accelerates erosion, and pushes contaminants directly toward wells.