The Maine Department of Transportation (DOT) has a fleet of roughly 400 plow trucks that are used to control snow and ice on
approximately 8300 lane miles of Maine's state roads. They usually plan on an average of about 30 treatable events in a winter. This
includes the use of rock salt, salt brine and winter sand, a mix of sand and salt. Salt brine is used on roads and bridges prior to a
storm to delay ice and snow from sticking to the roadway and is also used in plowing to fight the buildup of ice and snow throughout
the storm. Rock salt helps keep roads safe when winter storms hit, reducing winter road accidents, but it can also have negative
effects on plant life and aquatic ecosystems. What is something your community can try to reduce the environmental impact of
salting? Select ALL that apply.
A)
Buy more snow plows and use less salt.
B)
Ban all salt based solutions in the state.
C)
Provide incentives to consumers who install snow tires for increased
traction.
D)
Provide tax incentives to municipalities who will install solar panels that
heat water in pipes embedded in the road.
Wet the pavement before applying brine solutions to help the salt adhere
to the road, cutting back on how much they use.
E)