Smart Winter Maintenance: Protecting Our Drinking Water from Salt and Snow听
As temperatures drop and winter weather approaches, many of us start preparing for icy roads, sidewalks, and parking lots. Road salt is a trusted ally in keeping these surfaces safe, but when salt is over-applied or improperly stored, it can have long-lasting impacts on our local waterways and drinking water sources.听
Once salt dissolves, it doesn鈥檛 disappear. Meltwater and runoff carry chloride (the main component of salt) into nearby streams, rivers, and groundwater. Even small amounts can build up over time, harming aquatic life and affecting the quality of our drinking water. This winter, a few smart practices can go a long way in protecting both public safety and our sources of drinking water.听
1. Apply Salt Wisely听
- Use the right amount. More salt doesn鈥檛 always mean more safety. Once the pavement is covered, additional salt offers little benefit and simply washes away.听
- Monitor conditions. Apply salt only when temperatures are appropriate (salt is less effective when temperatures are below -10掳C).听
- Use calibrated equipment. For larger properties or municipal operations, ensure spreaders are properly calibrated so that salt is distributed evenly and efficiently.听
- Sweep up the leftover salt. After snow and ice have melted, sweep up any remaining salt to keep it from entering storm drains.听
2. Store Salt Safely听
- Keep salt covered and contained. Store it on an impermeable surface and under a roof or weatherproof tarp to prevent it from washing away during rain or snowmelt.
- Maintain good drainage. Ensure storage areas are located away from wells, ditches, and storm drains, and that runoff is directed to vegetated areas for natural filtration.
- Inspect regularly. Check storage piles throughout the winter for tears in covers, pooling water, or exposed salt.
3. Choose Snow Storage Locations Carefully
- Snow piles often contain road salt, sand, and debris. Place them away from wells, ditches, storm drains, and watercourses.听
- Have a designated snow storage area. These should be on level ground and ideally with a buffer of vegetation to help filter runoff.听
- Plan ahead. Identify and prepare appropriate snow storage areas before major storms hit.听
Balancing winter safety with drinking water protection is possible, and it starts with awareness. By taking a few simple steps to manage salt and snow responsibly, property owners, municipalities, and contractors can all play a part in keeping our drinking water sources clean for us all.听听
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