New York State Department of Transportation Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez and Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Basil Seggos today announced the release of a report on recommendations from the Adirondack Road Salt Reduction Task Force. The Task Force was established in 2020 to review best management practices for road salt applications within the Adirondack Park to reduce risks to public health and the environment, while maintaining public safety.

DEC Commissioner Basil Seggos said, “I applaud the work of the Adirondack Road Salt Reduction Task Force and its efforts to study the challenges of road salt use in this ecologically important region. DEC looks forward to continuing to work with DOT and our State partners, Task Force members, and other stakeholders to explore ways to promote safety and the protection of public health and sensitive ecosystems.”

State Department of Transportation Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez said, “I thank the Adirondack Road Salt Reduction Task Force and our agency partners for their hard work on completing this report prior to this year’s snow and ice season.  The State Department of Transportation takes its role in balancing public safety with environmental stewardship very seriously and we are currently evaluating new areas within the Adirondack Park to conduct salt reduction pilot programs this coming winter.”

“Climate change accelerates our need to find and implement safety practices that protect both public health and the environment,” State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said. “I support thoughtful and practical programs that will further advance our understanding of how best to support the pristine and healthy environment that the Adirondacks provide, now and for decades to come.”

APA Executive Director Barbara Rice said, “The Agency appreciates the significant effort undertaken by the task force to analyze the impacts of road salt contamination, and propose best management practices. We are eager to work with all partners to review these recommendations which will reduce risks to public health and the environment while maintaining public safety.”      

The report details the findings, review, and recommendations of the Task Force with respect to road salt contamination and winter road management practices within the Adirondack Park. It also contains recommendations for an Adirondack Park Road Salt Reduction Pilot Program. The report indicates the need to reduce road salt usage, while still considering the safety of the traveling public. The full report can be found at https://www.dec.ny.gov/chemical/128394.html.