De-Icing Dilemma

When it snows, many people use salt and other chemicals for de-icing. When snow melts, these non-slip substances can wash into storm drains, and eventually into local rivers and streams, where they can contribute to water pollution.  Salt spray from roadways can also damage some sensitive plants.

Viewer Tip: Is your driveway or sidewalk icy?  Try to use non-toxic deicing products such as clean clay cat litter, sand, or fireplace/stove ash. If you are using sand, save money by sweeping up extra sand between storms for re-use.  If you use ash, remember to use it in moderate amounts; ash contains nutrients that plants need, but too much can impair soil productivity.

Season: Winter

(Source: Environmental Protection Agency, http://www.epa.gov/region03/winter/#waq)