Winter Salt: A Hidden Threat to Local Waterways

In Baltimore County, winter brings more than just snow and ice. It also brings a hidden problem: too much salt. For years, crews and residents have been salting roads, bridges, and sidewalks. But this salt doesn't just stay on the ground. It runs off into local waterways, causing trouble for plants and animals. One stream, Scott's Level Branch, has been under watch for nearly 20 years. Scientists have found that this stream is saltier than it should be. In some parts, it's as salty as parts of the Chesapeake Bay. This extra salt can hurt the local ecosystem. While it's hard to say that salt is the only cause, it's clear that it's not helping. For example, trout in freshwater streams can be harmed by saltier water.So, why is there so much salt? It turns out, people often use more salt than they need. "You don't need as much salt as you think to melt snow and ice, " said Morgan Kaumeyer, a technical field manager. In fact, too much salt can actually be less effective. But salt is important for safety. The goal is to be safer, not saltier. Many local and state agencies are trying to use less salt. Some have even switched to computerized systems to help. At home, people can also do their part. Try salting only the icy areas of your property. A little salt goes a long way. A 12-ounce mug of salt can cover 10 sidewalk squares. Also, consider using salt alternatives, like sand. Small changes can make a big difference. They can help turn around the loss of animal populations, like trout, in Baltimore County. "We don't want to lose species, " Kaumeyer said. "If we can improve the conditions in our ecosystems, they can come back. "