As winter settles in across Minnesota, residents are preparing to tackle the challenges posed by snow and ice accumulation on driveways and walkways. Many turn to salt as a solution to prevent slipping and falling. However, the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) urges citizens to reconsider their salting strategies, advocating for a more environmentally responsible approach.
Each winter, an estimated 404,000 tons of salt, containing chloride, are distributed on Minnesota’s roadways and sidewalks. This staggering amount could fill a continuous line of single-axle plow trucks stretching from Minneapolis to Duluth, emphasizing the sheer volume of salt applied in an attempt to maintain safety during hazardous winter conditions.
The MPCA warns that excessive use of salt can have dire consequences, not only damaging local infrastructure and plant life but also posing significant risks to aquatic ecosystems. As snow melts or rain falls, melted salt can wash into storm drains and subsequently find its way into lakes, rivers, and streams, or seep into groundwater. Over-application of salt can lead to dangerously high levels of chloride in Minnesota’s waterways, which is especially harmful to fish and other wildlife.
Chloride is a persistent pollutant that does not degrade over time, effectively increasing the salinity of freshwater bodies and rendering them toxic to native species, including fish, insects, and amphibians. Some water bodies have accumulated enough chloride to necessitate their placement on the state’s impaired waters list.
To align with the MPCA’s message of environmental stewardship, residents are encouraged to adopt several strategies to minimize salt use:
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Manual Snow Removal: By shoveling and scraping away snow and ice, the reliance on salt can be significantly reduced. The MPCA advises individuals to watch instructional videos on the most effective tools and techniques for snow removal.
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Correct Salt Application: Dispelling the misconception that more salt equals increased safety, the agency points out that approximately 12 ounces of salt—about the size of a coffee mug—is sufficient to treat a 20-foot driveway or 10 standard sidewalk squares (approximately 1,000 square feet). Salt should be applied evenly and only in areas that are critical for safety.
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Cold Temperature Alternatives: When temperatures dip below 15°F, salt becomes less effective, and residents are advised to use sand for traction instead, bearing in mind that sand does not melt ice.
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Cleanup of Excess Salt: After treatment, leftover salt should be swept up to prevent it from being washed away into waterways, allowing it to be reused.
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Informed Product Choices: With no specific labeling requirements for deicers, consumers are encouraged to be cautious of products marketed as “environmentally friendly” or “pet-safe,” as they may not undergo adequate testing for effectiveness or safety.
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Proper Footwear and Vigilance: Wearing shoes or boots with good traction and being mindful of walking paths can greatly enhance personal safety during winter weather.
Additionally, the MPCA offers smart salting training programs for winter maintenance professionals and property managers, promoting safe winter practices while minimizing environmental impact. For those seeking further information, the MPCA’s website provides resources and training opportunities aimed at fostering a safer and more sustainable winter experience in Minnesota.
