As winter is upon us and the snow starts to fall, thoughts shift to clearing the snow and keeping walkways and driveways clear. What may not be considered is that traditional rock salt (NaCl) increases the salinity in waterways and contains cyanide (anti-caking agent) which may have adverse impacts on fish, wildlife, and plants, as well as our drinking water. 

The de-icers we put on our walks and roads end up in our drinking water. Water utilities do not filter the salt out. High levels of salts and other contaminants are unhealthful.

If you use a commercial snow removal company, please ask them to use more environmentally favorable products, use only what is necessary, one granule every 3 inches, and sweep up excess after the snow and ice have melted.

Let’s explore some alternatives to rock salt:

1. Urea: works like rock salt but is less toxic. May not be effective melting under 25 F. It does contain nitrogen so be mindful of overuse. Some products that are readily available: Safe Paw, Morton Safe-T-Pet, Urea Blend - Snow and Ice Melt, Melt Snow Urea
2. Calcium magnesium acetate (CMA) is considered the best choice for safely melting ice. The only drawback is the higher cost compared to rock salt. Some products that are readily available: Snow Joe
3. Magnesium Chloride: contains less chloride than rock salt or calcium chloride which makes it safer for pets and animals. It still does contain levels of chloride which may present issues. Some products that are readily available are: Clean Melt, Traction Melt CL, Scott’s Eco Blend ice melt
4. Sand/Kitty Litter: Sand/Kitty litter does not melt ice but will increase traction on slippery surfaces. Sand is less harmful to plants, animals, and waterways compared to rock salt, which can contaminate waterways and harm local ecosystems. The fine particles it produces may present an issue for those with allergies.  In addition, excess sand may wash into storm sewers and waterways so be sure to use sparingly. 
5. Additional Alternatives for smaller areas: bird seed, beet juice, vinegar (3 parts vinegar, 1 part water for wind shield deicer)

Here are some further recommendations from the Penn State Co-operative extension:

Best management practices for deicing chemicals:

1. Spread deicer before snow and ice start to accumulate.
2. Remove as much snow and ice as possible before applying the deicer.
3. Apply deicer only to areas where people or vehicles will be traveling
4. Follow the label directions. If only a handful of rock salt per square yard is needed, using more isn't more effective, just more expensive.
5. Grains of salt should be roughly 3 inches apart from each other
6. Sweep up extra salt to reuse
7. Don't use rock salt within 5-10 feet of salt-sensitive plants.
8. Store in a waterproof container to prevent leaks or spills

Resources: Penn State Co-operative Extension
More information on Salting: Salt Pollution Deep Dive — Little Lehigh Watershed Stewards