Road Salt is Bad for the River

One of the final improvements to the water quality standards that govern the Chicago River system is a new level for chlorides intended to reduce the impact the decades' long increase in the use of road salt has had on the river system. The new standard, 500 milligrams per liter year round (as of 2018), will promote healthier environment that does not interfere with the life cycles of aquatic life.

How you can help

• Join the Winter Chloride Watchers, acommunity science program where volunteers learn the basics of chloride monitoring and take part in water testing at a local river or stream over the winter season. By tracking chlorides levels we can see how they affect aquatic life and how salt-smart winter practices can reduce the amount of chlorides that reach waterways. and make a difference!
• Go Easy on the Salt!
  • Roadway managers, municipalities, private contractors and individuals can find the best management practices at Salt Smart to reduce salt usage.
  • Homeowners can be mindful of how much salt they use on sidewalks and driveways. Follow these guidelines on how to use salt and clear a sidewalk: 

1. Shovel first - Salt should only be used after the snow is removed and only in areas needed for safety.
2. Use sparingly  - More salt does not mean more melting. A 12-ounce coffee mug should be enough salt for a 20-foot driveway or 10 sidewalk squares (250 square feet).
3. Spread  -   Distribute salt evenly, not in clumps. Clumped salt is wasted salt!
4. Sweep  - If salt is left over on the ground after the ice melts, you used too much! Sweep up leftover salt to keep it out of rivers and streams.
5. Switch  -   Salt stops working if the temperature drops below 15 degrees. When it gets this cold, switch to sand. 

• Try Salt Alternatives - Salt is intended to break the bond between snow and the pavement, not melt the ice. Consider buying deicing products that are less harmful to the environment, calcium chloride and magnesium chloride are considered greener options. Calcium magnesium acetate and potassium acetate can also be used instead of salt. Another option is to make a brine by mixing salt with water and then cover sidewalks with it before the snow falls.

However, since no salt product is good for the environment, the best option is to just go easy on the salt!

Find out more about chloride and the Chicago River system.