Mother Earth needs a low-salt diet, too

Low-salt diets are a common recommendation for many adults these days. Doctors have individuals adjust the consumption of foods and seasonings to limit their intake of sodium and in turn have healthier lives. Recently, a similar diet is being recommended for Minnesota water bodies. Professionals from organizations like the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) and Freshwater Society, who keep a close watch on the quality of water in the state, are advocating for waterways to have a low-salt diet to help address a growing problem: chloride pollution.

Chloride, the primary component of salt, is used by the tons to de-ice pavement for travel and provide softened water. Both functions are clearly crucial in our Northern landscape where ice can make roads a skating rink and hard water is a common find. However, by using salt we are introducing a permanent pollutant and in turn making saltier water which, by no surprise, is a serious problem for aquatic life, leading to an impaired waterway for a long time to come. Not to mention, it takes only 1 teaspoon of salt to pollute 5 gallons of water to the point of impairment. Yikes!

Fortunately, the MPCA and similar organizations are hard at work looking toward optimized practices, alternatives and future fixes. In Carlton County alone, city and county road crews are refining procedures and spreading salt at a much more responsible level while keeping in mind the balance between safe roads and environmental wellbeing.

But this is a game we are all players in and participation is needed from everyone. As such, help out by using less salt at home! The rules to keep in mind are to shovel, scatter and save.

•Shovel paths first before applying any de-icer.

• Follow this by properly scattering the salt and leaving approximately 3 inches of space between each grain (keeping in mind that one 12 oz. mug is enough salt for a 20 foot driveway).

•Finally, save any excess after the ice melts by collecting it to reuse for another time.

Also note that it helps to know what type of salt you're using, as rock salt (NaCl) is effective down to 15 degrees whereas other varieties can perform in lower temperatures. Keep in mind too that sand or a similar traction aid can be spread over icy pavement regardless of how cold it is.

Ultimately, small changes like these from the majority of us can bring big results! Spread the word about chloride pollution to friends, family, and businesses alike to help get all players in the game and keep our waters in good shape. Remember too that more information is only a quick internet search away (hint: take a peek at "Chloride 101" on the MPCA website).

Chris Gass is a Minnesota GreenCorps member with the Carlton Soil and Water Conservation District whose columns will focus on environmental topics and stewardship, particularly in cities and towns.