Renfrew officials managing manganese presence in water

By Bruce McIntyre

Officials in Renfrew are monitoring the presence of manganese originating from the Bonnechere River water source. 

Since Monday, July 25, several residents have posted photos of water samples taken from their homes on various social media outlets and it was not until the following day that the town took public action.

In the release, it stated the Town and the Ontario Clean Water Agency have been managing the presence of manganese in the raw and treated water which originates from the Bonnechere River water source.  Although manganese does not create a health concern it does create challenges with colour in the treated water and distribution system.

The colour related aesthetic objective for manganese in drinking water is 0.05 mg/L and the town of Renfrew is experiencing levels at 0.121 mg/L.  Manganese is occasionally present in the Bonnechere River during summer months when temperatures are high and precipitation is minimal.

Water plant staff are monitoring levels and exploring treatment options.

The water is rigorously tested for all health related parameters and meets all regulatory requirements imposed by the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks. 

The release went on to state that the colour can be an inconvenience to residents but stated all efforts were being taken at the water treatment plant to minimize the impact the manganese has on the water distribution system.

Town staff have been contacted and at this time no response has been received. 

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