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DNR: Road salt is steadily salinizing Wisconsin waters; agency outlines 2021 strategy and local actions
Summary
DNR scientists reported rising chloride trends across the state — long‑term monitoring sites show increases and 50 rivers plus one lake exceed the chronic chloride threshold — and outlined a 16‑point reduction strategy focused on permitting, municipal practices, outreach and Saltwise partnerships.
DNR staff presented a cross‑program update on chloride pollution in Wisconsin, highlighting increasing concentrations in surface and groundwater and a multi‑pronged strategy to slow salinization.
Laura Dietrich (Water Evaluation) summarized monitoring results: long‑term trend sites across the state show increasing chloride concentrations (roughly 1–4% per year at most monitoring locations) and the agency’s assessment identified 50 rivers and one lake that exceed the state chronic chloride criterion as presented (reported in the briefing as 395 mg/L). Dietrich said urban winter monitoring has documented very high winter concentrations—on the order of 1,200 mg/L at times in urban streams—underscoring the seasonal nature of road‑salt impacts.
Carla Romano…
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