Protect PA Wilds waterways; use caution when removing ice or snow
- by Guest Contributor
- February 22, 2024
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Tips from the PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) and the Chesapeake Bay Program
Above video produced by Chesapeake Bay Program
In large doses, many popular snow and ice removal methods can be harmful to wildlife, plants, streams, and rivers.
Why is it harmful?
Snow and ice eventually melt and run off roads, sidewalks and parking lots. As it flows across the land, melted snow and ice can wash deicer and other harmful pollutants into streams and storm drains.
Think about all of the deicer used on roads, sidewalks and parking lots throughout the region. The runoff coming from your walkway or driveway may not cause much harm by itself. However, collectively, all of that deicer adds harmful amounts of salt and nutrients into local waterways.
Deicer can be particularly harmful to freshwater ponds, lakes, streams and rivers. Salt may be toxic to animals that live in these fresh water bodies. Deicer can also harm plants growing in your yard. Many trees, shrubs and grasses can’t tolerate salty water that runs off walkways and driveways in winter.
Tips for removing ice
When trying remove ice from outdoor surfaces, be sure to keep these tips in mind:
Look for pet-safe deicer made from calcium magnesium acetate, potassium chloride, or calcium chloride to melt the ice around your home or business.
Avoid products containing urea, which contains nitrogen — a harmful pollutant.
A three-to-one mixture of vinegar and water is a cheap, non-toxic recipe to help prevent ice build-up on your car windows.
Never use fertilizer as a deicer.
Check the packaging and always be sure to use the appropriate amount of deicer. A handful per yard is often all that is needed.
About The Chesapeake Bay Program:
The Chesapeake Bay Program is a unique regional partnership that has led and directed the restoration of the Chesapeake Bay since 1983. The Chesapeake Bay watershed includes much of the Pennsylvania Wilds region, particularly around the West Branch Susquehanna River that flows into the Chesapeake Bay. Learn more at www.chesapeakebay.net.
ABOUT DCNR:
Established on July 1, 1995, the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) is charged with maintaining and protecting 121 state parks; managing 2.2 million acres of state forest land; providing information on the state’s ecological and geologic resources; and establishing community conservation partnerships with grants and technical assistance to benefit rivers, trails, greenways, local parks and recreation, regional heritage parks, open space, and natural areas. DCNR’s mission is to conserve and sustain Pennsylvania’s natural resources for present and future generations’ use and enjoyment. Learn more at DCNR.pa.gov.
