Too much snow melt is bad for yards, groundwater say ag experts

MADISON, Wis. (WRN) — Be careful with your snow melt or salt this winter: it can be dangerous to your surroundings.

Ag experts say the chemicals in many commercial brands of snow melt are strong enough to cut through most ice and packed snow with just a small amount. So don’t toss too much out there too often.

The sodium and chemicals from snow melt can seep into concrete and weaken it, can kill lawns, and contaminate ground water if too much gets into the storm drains.

Use a conservative mount, just a cups worth for most front paths and drive ways, and if it’s still too slick to get around, consider using sand or grit instead.