This powerpoint presentation presents a study at the Black Brook Water Treatment Plant for manganese removal and overcoming operational limitations through the use of an alternative synthetic green sand media. A history of manganese treatment at the Black Brook Water Treatment Plant is provided, along with a pilot study on media selection that investigated synthetic alternatives and showed consistent manganese removal by Calgon GSR Plus Media from 0.595 mg/L to 0.018 mg/L, a 97% reduction. In early 2007 media replacement with Calgon GSR Plus was completed. The backwash performance of Calgon GSR Plus is presented, along with bed expansion analysis. A summary of study results indicated that optimal filter backwashing is of great importance in maintaining long term filter performance; and, synthetic green sand media which can be lighter and less dense than traditional glauconite green sand has been shown effective in achieving an optimal backwash at a water treatment plant with a limited backwash rate. Benefits include: less costs and headaches in long run; extends life of media; reduces need for air wash; longer filter runs; better manganese removal; and, improved water quality. Includes figures.