Natural sources of iron and manganese are more common in deeper wells where the water has been in contact with rock for a longer period of time. In coal mining regions of the state, these metals may also occur from both deep and surface mining activities. Iron and manganese often occur together in groundwater but manganese usually occurs in much lower concentrations than iron.
Both iron and manganese are readily apparent in drinking water supplies. Both impart a strong metallic taste to the water and both cause staining. Water coming from wells and springs with high iron and/or manganese may appear colorless initially but orange-brown (iron) or black (manganese) stains or particals quickly appear as the water is exposed to oxygen.
Water Purification and Filtration 