Civil and Environmental Engineering
Document Type
Fact Sheet
Date of this Version
5-2021
Citation
NebGuide (May 2021), G1714: Natural Resources, Water Management
Nebraska Extension, University of Nebraska
Abstract
Iron and manganese are two naturally occurring drinking water contaminants that can cause poor taste and odor issues, and be associated with discoloration that leads to staining of fixtures, dishes, and laundry. They are primarily found in Eastern Nebraska groundwater and most people mention these issues when iron levels exceed 300 micrograms per liter (µg/L) and manganese levels exceed 50 µg/L. Levels of iron can be much higher and are not associated with health concerns but manganese concentrations above 300 µg/L may pose a health issue for rice or soy formula-fed infants. Higher levels, over 1,000 µg/L, may pose a risk for all consumers. It is important to highlight that testing and treatment options are available to detect and remove these contaminants from drinking water.
Iron and manganese can be a nuisance in a water supply. They are similar metals and cause similar taste, appearance, and staining problems. Of the two, iron is found most frequently in water supplies, associated with both source water and piping material. Manganese is often found in source water that contain iron. Neither iron nor manganese are regulated under the Safe Drinking Water Act but the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) does have a lifetime health advisory for manganese of 300 micrograms per liter (µg/l).