Conservation Authority warns Brock Council regarding road salt impacts

DARRYL KNIGHT Local Journalism Initiative Reporter for The Standard

BROCK: Local councillors heard an eye-opening presentation, on the impact of road salt in the Lake Simcoe watershed, at their meeting on Monday, September 22nd, as representatives from the Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority (LSRCA) detailed troubling chloride trends and outlined steps toward better winter maintenance practices.

Speaking before council, David Lembcke, Director of Watershed Science and Monitoring, and Bill Thompson, Manager of Watershed Plans and Strategies, shared the latest monitoring data from 26 water quality stations across the watershed.

“The science is clear,” Mr. Lembcke told councillors. “We are seeing rising chloride levels across most of our tributaries, and that has long-term implications for the health of Lake Simcoe and its aquatic life.”

Between 2014 and 2023, none of the stations showed a declining chloride trend, while 20 showed an increase. Over the longer record, 23 stations demonstrated increasing trends. In several locations, chloride concentrations not only exceeded the chronic guideline of 120 mg/L, but in some cases it spiked near or above the acute guideline of 640 mg/L. For comparison, ocean water averages around 19,400 mg/L.

Mr. Thompson noted, the challenge lies in balancing road and walkway safety with responsible salt use. “The myth is, more salt equals more safety,” he said. “But research shows that’s not the case. Using the right amount, of the right product, at the right time is what keeps people safe, not simply dumping more salt.”

The LSRCA presentation included a case study, from a commercial parking lot in the watershed, where two different contractors were compared. While both kept the site free of liability claims, the contractor who used more refined practices applied significantly less salt, saving roughly $40,000 per year in material costs.

Locally, Brock Township is taking steps to be part of the solution. Staff will be completing 'Smart About Salt Program' training which covers leading practices in winter maintenance and helps ensure the correct de-icing products are used effectively.

Mayor Mike Jubb acknowledged the importance of the initiative. “This is an issue which affects both our environment and our budget,” Mayor Jubb said. “If our staff can keep residents safe on the roads, while protecting Lake Simcoe, and saving money, it’s a win for everyone.” Some local residents also expressed support for the initiative.“As someone who enjoys fishing and spending time on Lake Simcoe, I worry about what too much salt is doing to the water,” said Beaverton resident Sarah McKenzie. “It’s good to see the Township taking this seriously and looking for smarter ways to keep roads safe.”

The LSRCA emphasized municipalities can support change by: hiring trained contractors, sharing weather data, empowering staff to make informed decisions, and advocating for liability reform which encourages best practices.

As Mr. Thompson summarized, “We know better winter maintenance practices exist. The key is, making it easier for municipalities, contractors, and property owners to adopt them. When we do, both the lake and our communities benefit.”