Agency advocates for less road salt - Echo Press

The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency is continuing its campaign to limit use of salt to melt snow and ice across the state.

Minnesotans scatter an estimated 445,000 tons of chloride-laden salt on roads, parking lots and sidewalks each year, the agency says. More than 70 percent of that mixes with storm water and ends up in lakes, rivers and streams, where it is toxic to fish and other aquatic life.

Just one teaspoon of salt per five gallons of water can create conditions that harm aquatic life.

Removing salt from water is too difficult, so the state is focused on preventing contamination.

The agency suggests the following ways to safely use less salt:

• Salt is most effective when grains are scattered about 3 inches apart. Around 12 ounces – roughly a coffee mug full – effectively treats a 20-foot driveway. Use salt only in critical areas.
• Sweep up visible salt on dry surfaces. It is no longer doing any work and will be washed away into local waters. You can keep it to use later.
• Shovel. The more snow and ice you remove, the less salt is needed to be effective.
• De-icing salt doesn’t melt ice when it’s below 15 degrees outside.
• Sand doesn’t melt ice but it does provide traction.
• Don’t expect perfect conditions: Slow down and drive carefully.
• Consider purchasing winter tires.
• Dress and walk appropriately for the weather conditions.
• Hire a certified Smart Salting contractor to shovel and plow.

The agency has drafted a model ordinance for cities who are considering regulating the use of deicers. It also offers training for property managers on how to reduce their salt use.

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Agency advocates for less road salt - Echo Press
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