SMART SALTING
Road salt is an important part of ensuring safety during winter months, but using too much can have harmful effects on the environment. When chloride from road salt or other deicing materials washes into our waterways, it threatens drinking water supplies, as well as the health of freshwater fish and other aquatic life. It takes only 1 teaspoon of salt to permanently pollute 5 gallons of water. Once chloride is in the water, there is no easy way to remove it.
The Impact of Oversalting
Did you know that road salts cause $5 billion in damages to cars and infrastructure each year, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency? Road salts are essential for winter safety, but using too much can harm our drinking water supply, local wildlife, and freshwater ecosystems.
When you apply your salt this winter, remember that it only takes one 12 oz coffee mug of salt to effectively treat roughly 10 sidewalk squares.
What Else Can You Do?
This winter, be a smart salter to reduce your environmental impact and save money on winter maintenance without sacrificing safety.
Other Tips and Resources
Stay safe while protecting the environment and your wallet.
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Pre-treat walkways with a small amount of liquid deicer before the storm to prevent snow and ice from building up.
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You can make your own liquid deicer by dissolving rock salt in warm water to create a brine and apply it with a watering can. By making a brine, you allow the salt to start mixing with the snow and melting it faster
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Clear walkways and other areas before applying salt. The more snow you shovel away, the less salt you will need and the more effective it will be.
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Sweep up and save any visible salt remaining after a snow event so it can be used next time. Removing unused salt keeps it from washing away and polluting Lake Erie, while also saving you money.