Montgomery County Gears Up for Winter Weather with "Salt Wise" Campaign

Montgomery County, alongside the broader DMV region, is getting ready for potential snowfall this weekend. Initial forecasts anticipated 3-7 inches of snow, but recent reports suggest that the area might narrowly avoid the anticipated deluge. Despite the uncertainty, Montgomery County's road crews are taking proactive steps, using salt judiciously to prepare for the upcoming winter weather.

Chris Conklin, the Director of the Montgomery County Department of Transportation, shared on Thursday that 40% of the main roads have already received treatment with salt brine. As part of their readiness efforts, the county is encouraging residents to participate in their "Salt Wise" campaign, emphasizing the detrimental impact of excessive salt usage on waterways and aquatic life. The campaign seeks to educate residents about responsible salt application during snow and ice events.

The "Salt Wise" campaign advises residents to clear ice and snow early and regularly to minimize the need for excessive salt. Furthermore, the county provides a guideline suggesting the use of one 12-ounce cup of salt for every 10 sidewalk squares or a 20-foot driveway. An integral part of the initiative is the post-storm cleanup, urging residents to sweep up excess salt for reuse to mitigate its environmental impact.

With the weekend approaching, local road crews are vigilantly monitoring weather conditions and strategically applying salt to ensure safe travel on the roads. Residents are reminded to stay informed about the latest weather forecasts and adhere to the recommended salt usage guidelines provided by the county. For additional information on winter salt management and responsible usage, residents can visit the Montgomery County Department of Transportation's website.

Although the exact amount of snowfall remains uncertain, Montgomery County's proactive measures and the "Salt Wise" campaign underscore the importance of balancing safety with environmental consciousness during winter weather events in the region.

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