Inorganic Low Risk
Manganese
Black staining, neurological effects at high levels
Sources: Natural deposits, Industrial discharge
Regulatory Limit
Zero EPA Limit (50 μg/L)
*Levels above the EPA limit are considered unsafe.
MCL Value
50 μg/L
Goal (MCLG)
0 μg/L
Violating Systems
6 nationwide
Affected Population
4.1M estimated
Avg Detected Level
27.6302 μg/L in affected systems
Health Risk Assessment
Exposure to Manganese in drinking water is regulated because of its potential to cause black staining, neurological effects at high levels. The EPA has set the Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) at 50 μg/L to protect public health.
Note: Long-term exposure above the MCL can significantly increase health risks.
Detailed Health Effects
Black staining, neurological effects at high levels
Common Sources
1
Natural deposits 2
Industrial discharge National Overview
Total Tests
54
Violations Found
6
Violation Rate
11.1%
Top States by Violations
Most Affected Systems
89
Chicago Department of Water Management
B IL0310001 Chicago, IL
2,700,000 served
81
Edmond Water Resources
B OK3010002 Oklahoma City, OK
95,000 served
69
Riverside Public Utilities
C CA3310001 Riverside, CA
314,998 served
81
Lansing Board of Water and Light
B MI3310001 Lansing, MI
112,644 served
89
Denver Water
B CO0110001 Denver, CO
715,522 served
77
Tacoma-Pierce County Water
B WA1710002 Tacoma, WA
150,000 served
Treatment Methods
Oxidation/filtration
Ion exchange
Reverse osmosis
Is this in your water?
Find out if your local water system has detected Manganese.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Manganese and why is it in drinking water?
Manganese is a inorganic contaminant. Common sources include: Natural deposits, Industrial discharge.
What are the health effects of Manganese in drinking water?
Black staining, neurological effects at high levels
What is the EPA limit for Manganese?
The EPA Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) for Manganese is 50 μg/L.
How can I remove Manganese from my water?
Effective treatment methods for removing Manganese include: Oxidation/filtration, Ion exchange, Reverse osmosis.
How do I test my water for Manganese?
You can check your water system's annual Consumer Confidence Report for Manganese levels, or use a certified home water testing kit. WaterQ provides the latest EPA test data for all public water systems.