Issues with manganese in the drinking water of the town of Danvers have been resolved, according to village officials. In January, residents were notified that the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency had found manganese levels in the city’s drinking water to exceed their threshold of .150 PPM. In response, village officials determined that a media filter was the cause and made plans to replace it. However, shipping issues arose and work to replace the filter had to be delayed.

In a April 12th update, village officials announced that the filter had been replaced. The notice read “...after backwashing, treating, and bacterial tests passing we have approval to put the filter in production. The latest manganese test was .022, standard is .150, so this is a big improvement.” The notice goes on to recommend that residents be careful when running their washing machines at home, as some water discoloration could be expected which could potentially ruin white or lightly colored clothes. 

Manganese is a natural mineral naturally found in water and even the human body. However, long term exposure above levels set forth by the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency could result in loss of memory and motor functions. Filters meant to reduce manganese levels are expected to have a lifespan of 15-20 years.