Most of the public is simply unaware of the impacts that road salts have on the local environment. Plus road salts are really cheap and there is a general lack of application protocol and enforcement. These factors often leave us prone to excessive application during the freezing winter months.

Every winter the topic of roads salts appears on a variety of blogs and media outlets. Extensive research and work is occurring across Ontario by local conservation authorities on salt management including Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority. Research also continues to look for alternatives to road salts, including beet brine which is currently being used in Calgary. However, if you are interested in using alternatives, make sure to research what exactly is contained in the product, as many contain chloride in other forms.

Actions you can take

If you can avoid using salt altogether, great! If you must use road salts, here are some easy tips to reduce your use and protect our lakes: