Northumberland County says it continues to actively manage winter road maintenance operations as a province wide road salt shortage puts pressure on municipalities across Ontario.
Demand for road salt has increased significantly this season due to an early start to winter, frequent snow events, and prolonged periods of extreme cold. The County says the region has already recorded nearly twice as many winter weather events compared to this time last year, resulting in supplies being used more quickly than anticipated.
Public Works Director Denise Marshall says the County planned ahead by bulk purchasing treated and regular road salt before the season, with contracted restocks in place. However, the high number of weather events has strained supplies amid ongoing uncertainty across the province.
To manage remaining materials, the County is adjusting application rates and increasing the use of sand salt mixtures instead of straight salt. Sand helps improve traction while allowing crews to reduce overall salt use. Officials say potential reductions in snow plowing service levels would only be considered as a last resort if the shortage persists.
The County continues to monitor weather forecasts and road conditions, applying anti icing liquids ahead of storms and plowing, sanding, and salting during snowfall events. Northumberland County maintains approximately 900 lane kilometres of roadway using a fleet of 27 winter maintenance vehicles.
The update follows earlier reports that the salt shortage has also affected local homeowners and contractors, forcing changes to private winter maintenance practices.
Residents are encouraged to slow down, drive to conditions, carry an emergency kit, and stay informed of road and weather updates throughout the winter season.
(Written by: Joseph Goden)
