Understanding 'Detected', 'Median', and 'Range' in Cumberland County Manganese Sampling
Manganese measurements come from three groundwater wells in Cumberland County's bedrock aquifer sampled by the U.S. Geological Survey in October 2011.
All three wells showed manganese detected, with no results below the reporting limit.
The median manganese concentration was 43.4 micrograms per liter (ug/L), while individual results ranged from 1.24 to 125.0 ug/L.
No manganese concentration in these samples exceeded federal health or safety thresholds.
Reading the Record's Median and Range as a Cumberland County Homeowner
The median represents the middle value of the three manganese measurements, indicating a typical concentration in the area.
The range shows variation between wells from as low as 1.24 ug/L to as high as 125.0 ug/L, reflecting different conditions in each well's depth and location.
This variability means some household water systems could experience manganese challenges that existing treatment equipment may not fully control.
Because these figures come from area wells and not your own, testing your water is necessary to determine your home's specific manganese levels.
How Manganese Enters Groundwater in the Cumberland County Bedrock Aquifer
Manganese naturally occurs in bedrock and can dissolve into groundwater over time, influenced by aquifer geology and water chemistry.
Wells drilled 265 to 680 feet deep within the bedrock aquifer access water that may contain varying manganese concentrations depending on local mineral deposits.
Water drawn for household use travels through plumbing that can show discoloration or staining if manganese is present beyond certain levels.
The Sample Size and What It Means for Homeowners in Cumberland County
The data comes from only three wells sampled during a short period in 2011, a limited dataset for broad conclusions.
A small sample size means local manganese presence and levels can vary significantly at individual homes despite these area-wide findings.
Monitoring trends over time or testing your well water through a certified laboratory provides clearer insight into your water’s manganese content.
Adjustments for Larger Households, Second Homes, or Seasonal Properties
Households with higher daily water demands may find existing equipment struggles to keep manganese levels controlled consistently.
Seasonal properties or second homes could experience different manganese effects due to usage patterns or water sitting in pipes for extended periods.
Ensuring water treatment equipment matches household size and usage frequency can improve manganese management.
The Fleck Black Manganese Stains Filter ships ready to configure and is designed to help households manage manganese levels effectively when existing equipment is insufficient.
This summary is based on manganese data from the U.S. Geological Survey for Cumberland County bedrock aquifer wells sampled in October 2011. For detailed information and updates, consult the U.S. Geological Survey’s official water data resources.
Where this information comes from
Source: USGS groundwater sampling. Sampled 2011-10-26. These figures describe groundwater sampled in this area. They are not a test of any individual private well - only a test of that well can establish its own water.
On record: U.S. Geological Survey sampling of Manganese in the BEDROCK aquifer (Cumberland County): 3 results from 3 wells, median 43.4 ug/L, range 1.24-125.0 ug/L; none above any federal threshold