CRD releases water quality advisory for East Sooke due to high manganese concentrations

The Capital Regional District (CRD), in consultation with Island Health, has released a water advisory for residents of the Wilderness Mountain Water Service Area (East Sooke) due to elevated concentrations of manganese in the water supply.

Although manganese is a naturally occurring element found in many groundwater and surface water sources, it is typically only present in small amounts and is not usually a cause for concern. 

However, the CRD reports that seasonal variations in manganese levels can sometimes result in higher concentrations, as seen in the current situation at Wilderness Mountain. 

At the Wilderness Mountain service area, manganese levels are currently around 150 parts per billion (ppb), above the Health Canada guideline of 120 ppb for safe drinking water. 

Health Canada also sets an aesthetic objective of 20 ppb, as higher levels can cause water to appear brown, purple, or black. 

While manganese is an essential nutrient for human health, helping to support proper bone and brain function, recent studies have raised concerns about its potential impact on infants when it’s present in higher concentrations.

According to a media release from CRD, high levels of manganese exposure can cause manganese toxicity, where the central nervous system is the primary target, followed by the reproductive system.

As a precautionary measure, the CRD advises that infants, particularly those under 1 year old, should not drink tap water or consume formula mixed with tap water. Bottled water is recommended for preparing infant formula. 

For older children and adults, the health risk from manganese concentrations under 300 ppb is considered low, and the water can generally be consumed, although it is recommended to avoid drinking or using discoloured water for food preparation.

The CRD is working on improving water treatment at Wilderness Mountain to address the elevated manganese levels and bring them down to safe, acceptable levels. 

In the meantime, residents are encouraged to stay informed and follow the advisory recommendations to ensure the health and safety of their families. 

CRD also confirmed that boiling your water does not bring manganese levels down.

For updates on the situation, residents should keep an eye on official communications from the CRD and Island Health.