Changes

===Freshwater wildlife===  

===Freshwater wildlife===  

Just as we depend on air with the right makeup of oxygen, freshwater species – like fish, frogs, mussels, salamanders and zooplankton – need water with the right balance of chloride to survive. Having adapted to low levels of chloride in their habitats, increased levels begin to disrupt their basic functions – such as regulating their water content (osmoregulation) and breathing.  Studies have shown widespread effects of salt on ecosystems at all trophic levels from biofilms to fish species.  Specific effects vary based on exposure concentrations, and may include reductions in fecundity, size, shape, growth and abundance (Hintz and Relyea, 2019)<ref name="example1">Hintz, W.D. and Relyea, R.A. 2019. A review of the species, community, and ecosystem impacts of road salt salinisation in fresh waters. Freshwater biology, 64(6), pp.1081-1097. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/331991752_A_review_of_the_species_community_and_ecosystem_impacts_of_road_salt_salinisation_in_fresh_waters</ref>

Just as we depend on air with the right makeup of oxygen, freshwater species – like fish, frogs, mussels, salamanders and zooplankton – need water with the right balance of chloride to survive. Having adapted to low levels of chloride in their habitats, increased levels begin to disrupt their basic functions – such as regulating their water content (osmoregulation) and breathing.  Studies have shown widespread effects of salt on ecosystems at all trophic levels from biofilms to fish species.  Specific effects vary based on exposure concentrations, and may include reductions in fecundity, size, shape, growth and abundance (Hintz and Relyea, 2019)<ref name="example1">Hintz, W.D. and Relyea, R.A. 2019. A review of the species, community, and ecosystem impacts of road salt salinisation in fresh waters. Freshwater biology, 64(6), pp.1081-1097. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/331991752_A_review_of_the_species_community_and_ecosystem_impacts_of_road_salt_salinisation_in_fresh_waters</ref>

[[File:Wood Frog (Rana sylvatica) (6236874620).png|thumb|450px|A study by researchers at Yale and Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, in NY found the interactive effects of road salt on wood frog species' sex ratios and sexual size dimorphism. Over a series of experiments conducted, the authors of the paper in the Canadian Journal of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences discovered that the number of females within the studied population of tadpoles decreased by ~10% when exposed to road salt. These findings suggest road salt may have a 'masculizing effect' on various amphibian species.<ref>Lambert, M.R., Stoler, A.B., Smylie, M.S., Relyea, R.A. and Skelly, D.K. 2017. Interactive effects of road salt and leaf litter on wood frog sex ratios and sexual size dimorphism. Canadian Journal of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences, 74(2), pp.141-146. https://tspace.library.utoronto.ca/bitstream/1807/74970/1/cjfas-2016-0324.pdf</ref>]]

[[File:Wood Frog (Rana sylvatica) (6236874620).png|thumb|450px|A study by researchers at Yale and Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, in NY found the interactive effects of road salt on wood frog species' sex ratios and sexual size dimorphism. Over a series of experiments conducted, the authors of the paper in the Canadian Journal of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences discovered that the number of females within the studied population of tadpoles decreased by ~10% when exposed to road salt. These findings suggest road salt may have a 'masculizing effect' on various amphibian species (Lambert et al. 2017).<ref>Lambert, M.R., Stoler, A.B., Smylie, M.S., Relyea, R.A. and Skelly, D.K. 2017. Interactive effects of road salt and leaf litter on wood frog sex ratios and sexual size dimorphism. Canadian Journal of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences, 74(2), pp.141-146. https://tspace.library.utoronto.ca/bitstream/1807/74970/1/cjfas-2016-0324.pdf</ref>]]

===Vegetation===

===Vegetation===

Salt affects vegetation in various ways.  Salt in soil water generally makes it more difficult for roots to take up water. This phenomenon mimics drought conditions for the plant and underlies the recommendation for salt tolerant plants in LID practices. If passing traffic sprays salty water onto [[plants]] it can reduce cold hardiness in buds and new twigs. These then become more susceptible to freezing, mortality or deformation. In high enough concentrations, sodium and chloride can also be directly toxic to plants. In some species the ions are absorbed by the plant and build up in the leaves causing them to die.

Salt affects vegetation in various ways.  Salt in soil water generally makes it more difficult for roots to take up water. This phenomenon mimics drought conditions for the plant and underlies the recommendation for salt tolerant plants in LID practices. If passing traffic sprays salty water onto [[plants]] it can reduce cold hardiness in buds and new twigs. These then become more susceptible to freezing, mortality or deformation. In high enough concentrations, sodium and chloride can also be directly toxic to plants. In some species the ions are absorbed by the plant and build up in the leaves causing them to die.

==Guidelines==

==Guidelines==

[[File:Temporal changes (5-yr median) 1966 - 2022.jpg|thumb|600px|Temporal changes in 5-year median chloride concentration (1966-2020). All stations had higher median chloride concentrations in 2016-2020 compared to the last time 5-year median concentrations were culminated into a report (2011-2015) and the difference in concentration between time periods appeared to be greater for stations with higher chloride concentrations. The reasons behind this pattern are unknown and warrant further investigation, but median concentrations are above the chronic level of 120 mg/L in all of the more urbanized watersheds, south towards Lake Ontario (TRCA, 2021).<ref name="example2">TRCA. 2021. Spatial Patterns (2016-2020) and Temporal Trends (1966-2020) in Stream Water Quality across TRCA’s Jurisdiction. Prepared by Watershed Planning and Ecosystem Science. October, 2021. https://trcaca.s3.ca-central 1.amazonaws.com/app/uploads/2021/10/29113334/2016-2020-SWQ-Report-v11_FINAL_AODA-FA.pdf</ref>]]  

[[File:Temporal changes (5-yr median) 1966 - 2022.jpg|thumb|600px|Temporal changes in 5-year median chloride concentration (1966-2020). All stations had higher median chloride concentrations in 2016-2020 compared to the last time 5-year median concentrations were culminated into a report (2011-2015) and the difference in concentration between time periods appeared to be greater for stations with higher chloride concentrations. The reasons behind this pattern are unknown and warrant further investigation, but median concentrations are above the chronic level of 120 mg/L in all of the more urbanized watersheds, south towards Lake Ontario (TRCA, 2021).<ref name="example2">TRCA. 2021. Spatial Patterns (2016-2020) and Temporal Trends (1966-2020) in Stream Water Quality across TRCA’s Jurisdiction. Prepared by Watershed Planning and Ecosystem Science. October, 2021. https://sustainabletechnologies.ca/app/uploads/2021/10/2016-2020-SWQ-Report-v11_FINAL_AODA-FA.pdf</ref>]]  

[[File:Avg. chloride conc 2016 - 2020.jpg|thumb|600px|Average chloride concentration between 2016 - 2020 from collected grab samples. Most stations in the Southeastern part of TRCA's watershed within the Etobicoke, Mimico Creeks and the Humber River had much higher than the CWQG acute level of chloride (640mg/L), some at more than ~3 times this concentration (TRCA, 2021).<ref name="example2" />.]]  

[[File:Avg. chloride conc 2016 - 2020.jpg|thumb|600px|Average chloride concentration between 2016 - 2020 from collected grab samples. Most stations in the Southeastern part of TRCA's watershed within the Etobicoke, Mimico Creeks and the Humber River had much higher than the CWQG acute level of chloride (640mg/L), some at more than ~3 times this concentration (TRCA, 2021).<ref name="example2" />.]]  

In previous years, chloride concentrations greater than sea level concentrations ('''19,000 mg/L''') have been observed in tributaries of the Credit River.

In previous years, chloride concentrations greater than sea level concentrations ('''19,000 mg/L''') have been observed in tributaries of the Credit River.

==Salt & LID==

==Salt & LID==

*Selection of plants tolerant to elevated soil concentrations of salt ([[Plant lists#Plant Characteristics|Salt tolerance in plants]])

*Selection of plants tolerant to elevated soil concentrations of salt ([[Plant lists#Plant Characteristics|Salt tolerance in plants]])

*Inclusion of [[pretreatment|sumps or forebays]] without plants that reduce loads through infiltration  

*Inclusion of [[pretreatment|sumps or forebays]] without plants that reduce loads through infiltration  

*High permeability soils that allow more rapid flushing of salt from soils during rain events (e.g., [[Bioretention: Filter media|Bioretention filter media]], proprietary high flow rate filter media)

*High permeability soils that allow more rapid flushing of salt from soils during rain events (e.g., [[Bioretention: Filter media|Bioretention filter media]], proprietary high flow rate filter media products)

*Perforated distribution pipes that are offset from tree and shrub root balls to reduce exposure during early establishment ([[Stormwater Tree Trenches]])

*Perforated distribution pipes that are offset from tree and shrub root balls to reduce exposure during early establishment (e.g., [[Stormwater Tree Trenches]])

In drinking water protection areas, bypasses may be used to limit exposure to road salts during winter months where aquifers are vulnerable and ensures that any heavily-laden stormwater will "bypass" the practice and flow to the downstream street inlet to the Municipality's storm sewer system.

In drinking water protection areas, bypasses may be used to limit exposure to road salts during winter months where aquifers are vulnerable and ensures that any heavily-laden stormwater will "bypass" the practice and flow to the downstream street inlet to the Municipality's storm sewer system.

* [https://www.peelregion.ca/transportation/winter/maintenance-commercial.asp#propertyowners Peel Region] 

* [https://www.peelregion.ca/transportation/winter/maintenance-commercial.asp#propertyowners Peel Region] 

* [https://www.regionofwaterloo.ca/en/living-here/winter-maintenance-for-commercial-properties.aspx Waterloo Region]

* [https://www.regionofwaterloo.ca/en/living-here/winter-maintenance-for-commercial-properties.aspx Waterloo Region]

* [https://www.hamilton.ca/sites/default/files/media/browser/2022-01-17/coh-salt-management-plan2021.pdf Hamilton Region]<br>

* [https://www.hamilton.ca/home-neighbourhood/getting-around/streets-sidewalks/snow-clearing Hamilton Region]<br>

===Winter Maintenance Professionals===

===Winter Maintenance Professionals===

*[https://pub-peelregion.escribemeetings.com/filestream.ashx?DocumentId=9868 Using Liquids to Reduce Winter salt Use on Commercial Parking Lots]<ref>: Murison, L., Oswald, C., Gillion, E., and International Landscaping Inc. 2022. Salt Management - Partnership and Outreach Update. https://pub-peelregion.escribemeetings.com/filestream.ashx?DocumentId=9868.</ref>

*[https://pub-peelregion.escribemeetings.com/filestream.ashx?DocumentId=9868 Using Liquids to Reduce Winter salt Use on Commercial Parking Lots]<ref>: Murison, L., Oswald, C., Gillion, E., and International Landscaping Inc. 2022. Salt Management - Partnership and Outreach Update. https://pub-peelregion.escribemeetings.com/filestream.ashx?DocumentId=9868.</ref>

**This ongoing study is being conducted by Peel Regio and LSRCA staff, along with contractor International Landscaping Inc. to evaluate the feasibility and environmental benefits (specifically, the reduction of chloride (Cl) entering the environment) of using liquid anti-icing with NaCl brine (with and without beet juice additive) on commercial parking lots. Updated reports and findings will be posted here once published

**This ongoing study is being conducted by Peel Region and CVC staff, along with contractor International Landscaping Inc. to evaluate the feasibility and environmental benefits (specifically, the reduction of chloride (Cl) entering the environment) of using liquid anti-icing with NaCl brine (with and without beet juice additive) on commercial parking lots. Updated reports and findings will be posted here once published

*[https://www.regionofwaterloo.ca/en/living-here/resources/Documents/water/was-protect_closed_sign_program.PDF Closing Areas to Reduce Salt Use and Winter Maintenance Costs]<ref>Region of Waterloo. 2020. Salt reduction partnership. Region of Waterloo, Water Services. https://www.regionofwaterloo.ca/en/living-here/resources/Documents/water/was-protect_closed_sign_program.PDF</ref>

*[https://www.regionofwaterloo.ca/en/living-here/resources/Documents/water/was-protect_closed_sign_program.PDF Closing Areas to Reduce Salt Use and Winter Maintenance Costs]<ref>Region of Waterloo. 2020. Salt reduction partnership. Region of Waterloo, Water Services. https://www.regionofwaterloo.ca/en/living-here/resources/Documents/water/was-protect_closed_sign_program.PDF</ref>

===External Links===

===External Links===

[[File:Smart about salt training.PNG|thumb|500px|Smart About Salt training program teaches winter contracting company staff and facility management staff how to appropriately apply rock salt and still being mindful about its environmental impact, all while reducing reducing liability and maintenance costs. To learn more, click the picture above.<ref>Smart About Salt Council (SASC). n.d. Smart About Salt: Winter Salt Management Program. http://www.smartaboutsalt.com/</ref>|link=http://www.smartaboutsalt.com/training]]

[[File:Smart about salt training.PNG|thumb|500px|Smart About Salt training program teaches winter contracting company staff and facility management staff how to appropriately apply rock salt and still being mindful about its environmental impact, all while reducing reducing liability and maintenance costs. To learn more, click the picture above.<ref>Smart About Salt Council (SASC). n.d. Smart About Salt: Winter Salt Management Program. http://www.smartaboutsalt.com/</ref>|link=https://smartaboutsalt.wildapricot.org/take-training]]

*[http://www.smartaboutsalt.com/ Smart about Salt]<ref>Smart About Salt Council (SASC). n.d. Smart About Salt: Winter Salt Management Program. http://www.smartaboutsalt.com/</ref>

*[http://www.smartaboutsalt.com/ Smart about Salt]<ref>Smart About Salt Council (SASC). n.d. Smart About Salt: Winter Salt Management Program. http://www.smartaboutsalt.com/</ref>

** The website of the Smart About Salt Council (SASC) that offers training, recommendations, research and up to date news articles about the importance of proper management and use of rock salt on Ontario roadways, parking lots, private and residential properties. Training is offered in both English and French.   

** The website of the Smart About Salt Council (SASC) that offers training, recommendations, research and up to date news articles about the importance of proper management and use of rock salt on Ontario roadways, parking lots, private and residential properties. Training is offered in both English and French.   

*[https://sustainabletechnologies.ca/app/uploads/2016/01/Salt-brochures-v11.pdf Salt Application Verified Equipment (SAVE) Program: Managing Risk While Saving Money]<ref>STEP. 2016. Salt Application Verified Equipment Program: Managing Risk While Saving Money. Brief. https://sustainabletechnologies.ca/app/uploads/2016/01/Salt-brochures-v11.pdf</ref>

*[https://sustainabletechnologies.ca/app/uploads/2016/01/Salt-brochures-v11.pdf Salt Application Verified Equipment (SAVE) Program: Managing Risk While Saving Money]<ref>STEP. 2016. Salt Application Verified Equipment Program: Managing Risk While Saving Money. Brief. https://sustainabletechnologies.ca/app/uploads/2016/01/Salt-brochures-v11.pdf</ref>

**This study of the impacts of road salt on local ecosystems by Hintz and Relyea (2019), found that road salts negatively affect species at all trophic levels, from biofilms to fish species but the concentration of road salt where adverse effects were observed varied and the effects themselves ranged from reductions in fecundity, size and shape to alterations to nutrient and energy flow at an ecosystem level and increased greenhouse gas emissions from contaminated wetlands and altered hydrology and oxygen, nitrogen and carbon level dynamics in lakes and streams. Concentrations at which road salt triggered an effect varied considerably. To read more about their findings, click the link above.

**This study of the impacts of road salt on local ecosystems by Hintz and Relyea (2019), found that road salts negatively affect species at all trophic levels, from biofilms to fish species but the concentration of road salt where adverse effects were observed varied and the effects themselves ranged from reductions in fecundity, size and shape to alterations to nutrient and energy flow at an ecosystem level and increased greenhouse gas emissions from contaminated wetlands and altered hydrology and oxygen, nitrogen and carbon level dynamics in lakes and streams. Concentrations at which road salt triggered an effect varied considerably. To read more about their findings, click the link above.

*[https://www.hamilton.ca/sites/default/files/media/browser/2022-01-17/coh-salt-management-plan2021.pdf Hamilton Salt Management Plan]<ref>City of Hamilton. 2021. 2021 Salt Management Plan. https://www.hamilton.ca/sites/default/files/media/browser/2022-01-17/coh-salt-management-plan2021.pdf</ref>.  

*[https://www.hamilton.ca/sites/default/files/2023-12/streets-salt-management-plan2021-final.pdf Hamilton Salt Management Plan]<ref>City of Hamilton. 2021. 2021 Salt Management Plan. https://www.hamilton.ca/sites/default/files/media/browser/2022-01-17/coh-salt-management-plan2021.pdf</ref>.  

**The City of Hamilton's 2021 Salt Management Plan is intended to set out a policy and procedural framework for ensuring that the City continuously improves the management of road salt used in its winter maintenance operations. The plan is dynamic and allows the City to phase in new approaches and technologies in a way that is responsive to fiscal demands and the need to ensure that roadway safety is not compromised. To read more about the City's finalized plan that compares it's current practices to BMPs, opportunities for improvement, and achievement metrics which can be replicated for other Ontario municipalities, click the link above.

**The City of Hamilton's 2021 Salt Management Plan is intended to set out a policy and procedural framework for ensuring that the City continuously improves the management of road salt used in its winter maintenance operations. The plan is dynamic and allows the City to phase in new approaches and technologies in a way that is responsive to fiscal demands and the need to ensure that roadway safety is not compromised. To read more about the City's finalized plan that compares it's current practices to BMPs, opportunities for improvement, and achievement metrics which can be replicated for other Ontario municipalities, click the link above.

===Proprietary Systems===

===Proprietary Systems===