MADISON, Wis. (WRN) — Another reminder to use ice melting agents sparingly during the Wisconsin winter.
Storms across the country are contributing to a shortage of road salt for private snow contractors around the state. Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources stormwater section manager Shannon Haydin tells Fox 6 Milwaukee the shortage is a good reminder to evaluate how much salt you use, to extend your supply and protect the environment.
“We do have streams in southeast Wisconsin that are as salty as the ocean,” Haydin said.
Haydin says overuse of salt can become toxic to aquatic life. Though the DNR is not opposed to use of salt for ice management and safety, the agency recommends measuring it carefully. An 8-ounce coffee mug can salt about 10 sidewalk squares.