New York Launches “Don’t Be Salty” Campaign to Curb Road Salt Use

URGENT UPDATE: New York state officials have just launched a critical winter initiative to drastically reduce road salt use across the state. The campaign, titled “Don’t Be Salty, New York,” aims to protect drinking water and the environment by urging residents, businesses, and transportation crews to rethink their salt application practices.

Today, officials from the State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) announced the new campaign, emphasizing that excessive salt not only harms infrastructure and freshwater ecosystems but also contaminates wells and public water systems. Amanda Lefton, DEC Commissioner, highlighted the health risks associated with high sodium levels in drinking water, particularly for vulnerable populations.

Many New Yorkers are unaware that they are using significantly more rock salt than necessary. According to DEC guidelines, approximately 12 ounces of rock salt is sufficient to treat 250 square feet – about the size of a standard driveway or ten sidewalk squares. Lefton stated, “We need to shift our mindset and be smarter about how we use salt this winter.”

To support this initiative, state transportation crews are shifting towards more sustainable practices by increasingly utilizing brine, a water-salt mixture that adheres better to roads, and advanced plowing techniques. These measures aim to ensure road safety while minimizing salt application.

Moreover, county highway departments are adopting innovative salt-tracking technology that provides real-time data on application rates and road conditions, allowing crews to optimize their salt usage and avoid oversalting.

The DEC has introduced a straightforward “be SMART with salt” checklist for residents to follow: shovel first, measure before spreading salt, apply only what’s necessary, remove any leftover salt after storms, and communicate with neighbors or contractors about using less salt overall.

This initiative is not just about saving the environment; it’s also about safeguarding public health. With winter weather approaching, now is the time for all New Yorkers to take action.

For more information on the “Don’t Be Salty, New York” campaign and best practices for winter salt use, visit: www.dec.ny.gov/environmental-protection/water/rock-salt-reduction.

Stay tuned as this developing story unfolds, and join the movement to protect our water resources while ensuring safe winter roads!