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Deicing Salt Melting Snow and Ice

Deicing salts are an important part of winter travel safety for roads and sidewalks. These salts can also pose an environmental threat when they move off-target, such as by plowing or runoff. Among the problems is damage to vegetation.

As salts accumulate, plants take up chloride, which causes problems leading to dieback and decline. In addition, sodium from salts may destroy soil structure, causing more plant problems. Most damage will occur within 30 feet of the roadway or parking lot.

Alternatives to deicing salts can include sand and sawdust.

For more information:

Use Deicing Salts with Caution

Winter Deicing Agents for the Homeowner

University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension in Lancaster County
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