The remnants of our first winter storm can still be seen in the piles of pink salt on sidewalks, where it can cause damage long after the storm has passed.
Rock salt does the job quickly but eventually washes into the Potomac, where it hurts wildlife and pollutes our drinking water. According to the Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission, salt levels in the Potomac were 230% higher in 2021 than 30 years ago, primarily due to the runoff of rock salts and deicers.
This “freshwater salinization syndrome” particularly affects people who are sensitive to sodium and chloride but can cause high blood pressure and kidney problems in anyone.
Snow at the Capital. (Bill the Nino/Getty Images)
So how can you deice your driveway and be environmentally responsible this winter?
- Instead of rock salt, which has cyanide in it, use magnesium chloride or calcium magnesium acetate (CMA). While more expensive than rock salt, you need to use less of it, and it has minimal chloride which protects the environment.
- Remove as much snow and ice as possible before applying a deicer. I know, shoveling sucks, but do it for the fishies.
- Use deicer sparingly. Only a handful of salt per square yard is needed.
If you want to go completely chemical free, try:
- Mixing warm water with table salt and spraying on icy areas.
- Using sand to improve traction
- Covering small areas (such as your steps) with heavy, waterproof plastic or a tarp before bad weather.
