OPINION: Winter-Maintenance Innovations: Reducing Our Salt Use

As winter approaches and the first snowflakes start to fall, the beauty of a snow-covered landscape is often accompanied by the essential task of winter maintenance. In Madison County, the Highway Department has been proactive in not only ensuring the safety of travelers, but also in implementing strategies to reduce salt usage — a decision that benefits both taxpayers and the environment.

The role of salt in winter maintenance

Salt, chemically known as sodium chloride, is a commonly used agent for de-icing roads, helping to keep surfaces safe for drivers and pedestrians. However, its use has been linked to significant environmental concerns, particularly in areas connected to the Great Lakes system. This vast freshwater network, holding about 20 percent of the world’s supply, is susceptible to pollution from excess salt, which can contaminate drinking water and harm aquatic ecosystems.

The cost of salt

While salt is crucial for maintaining road safety during winter, it poses two major problems: its corrosive nature damages vehicles and infrastructure, resulting in about $5 billion in annual repair costs in the U.S. Moreover, overuse of salt leads to elevated chloride levels in groundwater, which can take decades to stabilize due to salt’s inability to break down naturally. The trend in salt application has surged from 5,000 tons annually in the mid-20th century to more than 20 million tons in recent years, raising alarms about its long-term impact on our water bodies.

Implementing innovative strategies

Recognizing the detrimental effects of salt use, the Madison County Highway Department has been implementing a variety of techniques over the past 15 years to reduce costs and minimize environmental impact. Recent efforts have focused on liquid de-icing solutions, advanced equipment, and data-driven technologies. 1. ​Speed-control spreaders: These systems adjust the salt-distribution rate based on the truck’s speed, allowing for more efficient application and reducing the overall amount of salt needed. 2.​ Salt brine and liquid de-icers: By mixing salt with liquid de-icers like magnesium chloride, the department has effectively reduced the quantity of solid salt required. Salt brine, created by dissolving rock salt in water, with or without additional de-icing liquids, is particularly effective for pre-treating roadways before storms and is effective at different temperatures. 3.​ One-person plowing: Introduced around 2010, this system allows a single operator to manage each plow truck. This change not only reduced personnel costs but also improved response times during winter-weather events. 4.​ Advanced equipment and technology: Newer plow trucks are equipped with auger systems that provide more uniform salt distribution, and sophisticated speed-control units that gather data to optimize salt usage. 5.​ Future investments: The Highway Department has installed a brine manufacturing unit at its new facility in Eaton and plans to expand its capabilities further with additional brine storage and more advanced weather-monitoring systems. This commitment will enable even more precise salt and brine application, ensuring high service levels while protecting the environment.

Community involvement and advocacy

Public awareness and cooperation are also vital in this effort. Community members can play an active role by engaging in discussions about salt usage with local businesses and contractors, who often have different incentives regarding snow and ice management. As advocates for funding and innovative technologies, local officials and citizens can help promote sustainable practices within public works. The Madison County Highway Department works to lower the cost of salt on the taxpayers, by using new techniques that reduce the amount of salt utilized every year. Also, Madison County includes all of the towns and villages in its yearly salt bid to help reduce the price for all municipalities.

Conclusion

As we prepare for another winter season, the Madison County Highway Department stands as a model for responsible winter-maintenance practices. Through its commitment to reducing salt usage, the department is not only ensuring safer roads but also protecting vital water resources and reducing infrastructure damage. The combination of innovative techniques and community involvement paves the way for a sustainable approach to winter maintenance — one that benefits everyone in Madison County and beyond.

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F. Joseph Wisinski is superintendent of the Madison County Highway Department.