January 19, 2022
Many people purchase de-icing salt and apply it to their roads, sidewalks and driveways when it snows or sleets. While this may seem like the best solution, when the salt melts the snow and the mixture enters storm drains. From here, the salt travels to our streams as untreated, polluted runoff which is harmful to our environment. This includes our drinking water sources, infrastructure like pipes and pumps needed to supply water to our customers. Additionally, you’ll often see a disruption to freshwater organisms after a snow storm due to the high use of sodium and chloride ions, which are the result of salt dissolving.
Here are tips to remember when removing ice this season:
- Shovel early. Remove snow from pavements before it turns to ice. Use salt only after snow has been cleared and only in areas needed for safety.
- Use less. More salt does not mean more melting. A 12-ounce coffee mug of salt should be enough for a 20-foot driveway or about 10 sidewalk squares.
- Spread evenly. Try to not distribute in clumps.
- Watch the temps. When it is colder than 15°F do not apply winter salt – it will not work. In those cases, consider building traction with alternatives like sand or native bird seed.
- Look for leftovers. If you see salt remaining after the ice melts, sweep it into safe storage to keep out of our rivers and streams.
- Divert downspouts. If possible, channel downspout spillage to drain onto lawn areas rather than walks and driveways.