The Cariboo Regional District has issued a water quality advisory, to the Gateway Water System users because of manganese (Mn) levels exceeding the Guidelines for Canadian Drinking Water Quality. This Advisory remains in effect until further notice.
The Cariboo Regional District's water systems are tested regularly to ensure they meet public health regulations. Health Canada has recently established a new maximum acceptable concentration (MAC) for manganese in drinking water of 0.12 mg/L. Recent water samples submitted show manganese concentrations that exceed the MAC. The quality of the drinking water has not changed, the Canadian Guideline for drinking water has.
Manganese (Mn) is an element found in air, food, soil and drinking water. While a small amount of Mn is essential for human health, new Health Canada research has shown drinking water with too much Mn can be a risk to health for infants and young children.
Infants and young children are the most sensitive and vulnerable population, as their bodies absorb more manganese and cannot regulate or remove the chemical as readily as adults and older children. As a result, the drinking water from this system must not be used to prepare formula for bottle-fed infants. An alternate source of safe drinking water, such as bottled water, must be used when preparing formula for infants and young children. Boiling the water will not lower the manganese level.
Breastfed infants are generally considered at lower risk to manganese exposure as the transfer of manganese to breast milk is limited. Pregnant or breastfeeding women who have concerns may wish to use a safe, alternate source of drinking water or consult with a healthcare professional.
Water exceeding the MAC for manganese can be used for cooking and drinking by non-vulnerable groups and is still considered safe for hand washing, bathing and showering. If you have further questions, please call the Environmental Services department at 1-800-665-1636 during regular office hours.
For more information about boil water advisories and service interruptions in the CRD and what to expect, visit cariboord.ca/water-notices-and-advisories . To receive updates on CRD water systems and other relevant information within the CRD, residents are reminded to subscribe to the latest news on our website at cariboord.ca/subscribe.