Norton Water Samples Show Elevated Manganese Levels

NORTON, MA — Norton water officials are advising residents to avoid using tap water in the preparation of infant formula after water samples taken from town wells showed an elevated level of manganese. Three wells exceeded the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection's advisory level of .30 milligrams per liter. The Norton wells in excess measured between .34 and .50 milligrams per liter.

Town water officials said that while manganese is necessary for proper nutrition, an excess amount could adversely affect health over a lifetime. Officials said those less than 1 year old should not consume water with an elevated manganese levels.

Officials said the general population may continue to use the water "since it is anticipated that this issue will be resolved before long-term exposure occurs."

Those with health-related concerns about manganese are asked to contact their health care provider.

The town is in the midst of transferring to a new water facility that will filter out iron and manganese from the drinking water. Those minerals are naturally found in drinking water. Those with questions about the levels can contact the Norton Water Department at 508-285-0280 or ffournier@nortonmaus.com.

More about the effects of manganese in water can be found here.