What’s the Problem with Road Salt?
Most ice melting products contain chloride which is:
Toxic to aquatic life
Damaging to plants
Corrosive to vehicles and bridges
Harmful to pets
Choose lake-friendly methods to manage ice on your property and reduce your impact at the same time. Click here to learn more.
Too much salt was applied in this instance. A little goes a long way — you don’t need to feel the crunch.
Chloride-Free Ice Control Product information
When purchasing ice control products try to read the labels carefully. The products that have the least impact on our water resources do not contain chloride. Pet safe does not mean it is good for the lake. Below are a few chloride-free products recommended by LSPA.
Sold in liquid format (requires a sprayer to apply)
Freeze point up to -63 degrees F
Click here to view more chloride-free options and where to purchase online.
LSPA is working with local stores to carry some of these products as well.
Additional Resources
Ice Management Choices for Homeowners - A pamphlet from LSPA with information on how to minimize your impact and alternatives to road salt.
Dock De-Icers: Tips for Safe and Effective Use - A pamphlet from LSPA with information about dock de-icers.
Road Salt Report - Impacts and best management practices from the Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies.
NH DOT Winter Maintenance Snow Removal and Ice Control Information - Learn more about how state roads are maintained in winter.
NH DOT Winter Maintenance Snow Removal and Ice Control Policy - See page 10 and 11 to learn about what criteria is needed to designate a salt reduction zone on a state road.
NH DOT Traffic Volume Reports - This traffic data can be used to determine feasibility of a salt reduction zone.
Road Salt Reduction - Learn more about best management practices from NHDES that prioritize safety but also protect our water resources and about the Green SnowPro certification program. There is also a link to Green SnowPro certified contractors on this page too (see “Looking for a certified commercial applicator?”).
Click here to learn about Salt Watch, a program of the Izaak Walton League of America.
Click here to learn about Salt Responsibility, a road salt reduction initiative organized by the Green Mountain Conservation Corps.