by Andres Clavier, Freshwater Stewardship Education Intern
With the widespread use of road salts in countries to combat winter’s icy conditions, our freshwater ecosystems are increasing in salinity which is hazardous for our ecosystems. This is especially true for salt vulnerable areas.
What is a Salt Vulnerable Area?
A salt vulnerable area refers to freshwater sources, primarily lakes and rivers, that are particularly susceptible to contamination from road salts (Environment Canada, 2013). These could be areas with a potential high influx of road salts or those that have longer residency times for water, meaning the water stays in place longer. This allows for pollutants, including salts, to accumulate. Such vulnerable ecosystems are at a higher risk of experiencing detrimental effects from increased salt concentrations, including disruptions in aquatic life, habitat changes, and water quality degradation.
Beyond the immediate ecological repercussions, increased salinity in freshwater sources can impact drinking water, agricultural practices, and even the local economy. The delicate balance of freshwater ecosystems is essential for the well-being of all species, including humans.
There are three keys ways to identify a salt vulnerable area (Corsi, et. al, 2010). The first way is identify areas downstream or adjacent to major roadways or highways, where road salts are frequently applied, are more susceptible. The second way includes looking at shallow water bodies with limited water exchange, or those surrounded by impermeable surfaces, as they are at higher risk. Finally, looking at past records indicating elevated salt or chloride levels are a clear indication of vulnerability. These three pieces of information can be mapped together with current chloride levels to give people a clear map of priority areas to protect and monitor.
While the challenges posed by road salts to our freshwater ecosystems are substantial, collective awareness and action can pave the way for meaningful change. By understanding the importance of salt vulnerable areas, people can make informed decisions that not only protect these vital ecosystems but also ensure a sustainable and healthier future for all.
Watersheds Canada’s salt awareness campaign is here to help you and your community implement more sustainable practices. By supporting regulations, monitoring, and liability, we can safeguard our aquatic ecosystems, protect wildlife, and ensure the continued purity of our nation’s waters. Your participation could be the ripple effect needed to spark change. Share this information with loved ones and peers, emphasizing the significance of joining hands against road salt pollution. Be sure to check out more information and blogs on our road salt information page.
References
Corsi, S. R., Graczyk, D. J., Geis, S. W., Booth, N. L., & Richards, K. D. (2010). A fresh look at road salt: aquatic toxicity and water-quality impacts on local, regional, and national scales. Environmental Science & Technology, 44(19), 7376-7382.
Environment Canada (2013). Identifying Areas Vulnerable To Road Salts.
This piece is part of an education toolkit generously funded by:
