Often, we do not think of snow and ice as potential stormwater runoff, but they definitely are. With increasing warm spells throughout the winter causing multiple freeze-thaw cycles where the snow and ice begin to melt and shrink, winter precipitation acts as rain does, picking up and transporting contaminants from sidewalks, driveways, rooftops, roads, parking lots, and agricultural fields. Ice melt salt, pet/animal waste, fertilizers, vehicle exhaust/oils/fluids, and litter are some of the common contaminants picked up as ice and snow melt away. These contaminants can negatively affect our groundwater, surface water, aquatic life, soils, and wildlife.

Traditional ice melt products contain salts such as sodium chloride or calcium chloride. These substances can be detrimental to the landscape plants, lawns, pets, and water resources. They can also be corrosive to concrete sidewalks and driveways, anything metal, and vehicles. There is no time like the present to look into more eco-friendly alternatives to manage the slick spots throughout the winter.

Here are some steps you can take to reduce winter salt pollution at home:

• Shovel frequently to the bare surface so snow does not accumulate and turn to ice or melt and refreeze.
• Salt works best on a thin layer of ice; always shovel any excess snow/ice before applying it.
• Combine the use of physical tools to remove snow and ice with eco-friendly deicing products for best results.
• Over applying salt does not improve its effectiveness; one 12-ounce coffee mug of salt is sufficient for a 20 foot x 2 foot swath of sidewalk/driveway. The grains of salt should be about 3 inches apart.
• Only apply salt in places where it is necessary. Remember that most traditional salt products are not effective below 15°F.
• Pay special attention to where water naturally flows in your landscape; clear snow away from those areas to prevent the formation of snow/ice dams.
• Sweep up any excess salt and use it for the next round of winter precipitation.
• Remember that it only takes one teaspoon of salt to pollute five gallons of water!

Eco-friendly alternatives include:

• Sand or birdseed provide traction on slippery surfaces. 
• Wood ash grit provides traction, and the minerals in the ash, as well as its dark color, help to melt ice.
• Plant-based ice melt products are derived from agricultural by-products and are a biodegradable alternative. If applied before a storm, they can be an effective ice preventative.
• There are many non-salt, mineral-based ice melt products available. Some consist of volcanic minerals that provide traction and help break down the ice, while others contain magnesium chloride or calcium magnesium acetate (CMA). Both magnesium products are more effective at low temperatures, are less corrosive on concrete and metal, long-lasting, thus reducing the need for frequent reapplication, safe for pets, and friendlier to vegetation.
• If winter precipitation is forecasted, cover highly trafficked small areas, such as steps, with a tarp to prevent snow accumulation or invest in reusable heated mats.
• Look for products that are certified environmentally safe. As with any ice melt product application, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for safety and effectiveness. 

In urban areas, winter runoff particularly that from hard, impermeable surfaces often goes to the storm drain/sewer system. The storm water flows directly into local waterways, which means contamination and possible impairment of rivers, streams, creeks, and lakes. Winter runoff can also carry contaminants through the soil to groundwater resources. 

We can all do our part throughout the seasons of the year to protect our groundwater, surface water, aquatic life, soils, and wildlife. It is never too late to put best environmental management practices into action and help keep our “fresh” water from turning salty!

Visit water.unl.edu for more water related guidance.