FSI Landscape Supply weighs in on four solutions to survive a salt shortage. (Source: Earth Development, blog, October 15, 2020, https://earthdevelopmentinc.com/blog/four-ways-to-survive-a-salt-shortage-this-winter.)

Earth Development brings our attention to four ways to survive the potential circumstance of a salt shortage which could affect many snow removal contractors and landscaping professionals.

The first method suggested by Earth Development is to conserve the salt supply that you already have. FSI Landscape Supply agrees, “in the event of a salt shortage, there are many ways in which you could conserve your salt supply. Combining salt and sand is effective in combating packed snow and thick ice. Sand will not melt ice or snow on its own. To use sand efficiently, it must be pre-wet. Pre-wetting sand with a liquid de-icer will help reduce the amount used and ensure the material adheres to the affected areas. Another way to conserve bulk de-icing salt is to order your supply early. The worst thing to do is hold off until the last minute or wait until a severe weather warning is announced. You want to beat the season rush and secure your desired supply of bulk de-icing salt. Here at FSI Landscape Supply, we firmly believe it is never too early to place an order for bulk road salt.”

The second method mentioned by Earth Development is to rely on a professional snow contractor or snow removal service. FSI Landscape Supply shares, “snow removal contractors and landscaping professionals have extensive experience on how to handle various weather and road conditions. Professional contractors understand the liability and difficult circumstances that may arise in the event of a road salt shortage. Therefore, will avoid that situation at all costs by implementing other snow management solutions.”

The third method is to always review your snow management plan and act immediately. FSI Landscape Supply agrees, “in any business, being prepared and organized is essential to maintain daily operations. Therefore, it is always best to review your snow management plan and keep track of your inventory or supplies when it comes to snow removal. Bulk ordering the desired supply of road salt ahead of time will ensure you have enough material to fulfill contracts. As the article mentions, it is advisable to consider high-traffic areas to ensure you have the resources and enough staff to treat the designated areas. Part of the snow management plan should also include a safe place to store your supply. A bulk supply of de-icing salt should be kept on asphalt or concrete surface. The storage area should be well covered to prevent any interference from various weather elements. Humidity, wind, moisture, water, and snow can wash and blow away your stockpile. Therefore, to survive a salt shortage, manage your supplies.”

Lastly, always have a backup method or alternative solution on hand to tackle snow and ice. FSI Landscape Supply suggests, “treated salt or combing sand as previously mentioned can help contractors when faced with a salt shortage. Treated salt has the capability to adhere to the surface and is long-lasting. Therefore, there is less bounce, saving time and material during the application process. Sand is fantastic for providing traction and preventing new ice from forming. Sand will work at various temperatures and can be applied on any surface. Treated salt or using the salt and sand combination can help stretch your supply.”

FSI Landscape Supply shares, “when in doubt, always ask your landscape supplier on alternative methods. Or you may want to ask for their suggestions on how to manage bulk de-icing salt to ensure your stock is preserved and ready to go this winter.”