Watershed Protection Techniques for Snow and Snowmelt Conditions

Even as we near springtime, another storm is set to hit the Northeast. Due to snowplowing, roadside edges are becoming increasingly thick, containing a buildup of chemicals and litter. Once pollutants collect in a snowpack, the freeze/thaw cycle begins, wherein soluble pollutants concentrate at the bottom of the pack. What this means is that the pollutants are exposed for washoff by meltwater.

In what is known as a “first flush,” concentrated snowpack meltwater will infiltrate into the soil or runoff. Because runoff exerts a concentration of highly soluble pollutants, which are highly saline, more runoff that is produced in the latter stages of the melt creates higher concentrations of pollutants. “Meltwater runoff carries pollutants that have accumulated all winter in the snowpack, as well as street and soil surface material that washes off of these surfaces. Atmospheric fallout, industrial activity, vehicular emissions/corrosion/fluid leaks, roadway deterioration, urban litter, and anti-skid grit and chemical deicers are sources of the solids, nutrients, and toxic materials that accumulate in a snowpack,” (Microsubstances in Urban Snow Water).

To ensure safety of watersheds in Snowmelt conditions:

■ Designate “salt-free” areas on roads adjacent to wetlands and resource areas

■ Dump snow in pervious areas where it can infiltrate

■ Blow Snow from Curbside to Pervious Areas

■ Intensive Street Cleaning in Early Spring can Help Remove Particulates on Road Surfaces

To learn more on Snowmelt, click here.

AWWT wants to keep our watersheds safe while we endure the rest of winter. By utilizing the latest in water treatment and cleaning techniques, we are Long Island’s “go-to” water treatment firm. Committed to improving outdated sewage treatment processes with our Clear H2O Method, AWWT leverages electrocoagulation technology that cleans even the most contaminated water. If you would like to learn more information regarding AWWT and our Clear H2O Method of water treatment, go to http://www.awwtinc.com.