Watersheds Canada is launching our latest resource toolkit: tackling road salt pollution.

As snow falls on our streets and highways each winter, road salts are generously used to ensure safe travel. This is especially true with the unseasonably warm winter we are currently experiencing across Canada as freezing rain and rain fall instead of snow, and there is constant freezing and thawing. While road salts play an important role in human safety, their persistent use is causing immense consequences for our freshwater ecosystems.

With the launch of the new toolkit and your support, we will:

• Raise awareness about the detrimental effects of road salt pollution on our freshwater.
• Encourage discussion on how municipalities and communities can have more comprehensive norms and enforcement regarding road salt usage.
• Promote de-icing alternatives that are both effective and ecologically responsible.

Here is how you can take action today:

• Take the Survey: We have designed a survey to gather your insight and opinion on road salt pollution. Your feedback is invaluable, so please take a few minutes to fill in this anonymous survey!
• Spread the Word: Share our toolkit with friends, family, colleagues, and your municipality. The more voices that come together, the more ground-level action can occur.
• Donate: Ensure more communities have access to toolkits and the knowledge they need to protect their local freshwater.

Together, we can make a difference. Canada’s waters are a treasure and a legacy we owe to future generations. As the winter months continue, let us come together to ensure that our efforts to combat ice do not come at the expense of our precious aquatic ecosystems.

 

This education toolkit is generously funded by: