HomeMy WebLinkAboutWinter Salt Week 2026Contact: Brittany Bader, Digital Communications Coordinator
Phone 952-826-0396 • BBader@EdinaMN.gov • EdinaMN.gov
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Edina Invites Community to Take Part in Winter Salt Week Activities Jan. 26-30
Learn Tips to Keep People, Pets and the Environment Safe
Edina, Minn., Jan. 16, 2026 – Winter Salt Week, Jan. 26-30, is a collaboration of organizations across the United States and Canada that share a goal of raising awareness around salt
pollution and reduction solutions.
Chloride pollution from de-icing salt is a growing problem for water resources across the state, and once salt dissolves in water, there is no practical way to remove it. Contamination
from salt has been found in lakes, streams and groundwater in Edina’s Nine Mile Creek and Minnehaha Creek watersheds.
In recognition of Winter Salt Week, the City of Edina is raising awareness about responsible salt use and effective application methods to protect people and pets and minimize long-term
environmental harm caused by overuse.
During Winter Salt Week, the City will have a “Paws & Pavement” informational display at Hughes Pavilion at Centennial Lakes Park, 7499 France Ave. S. Whether you’re skating or enjoying
a winter walk in the park, visitors can “fetch some tips” and take home a free dog treat for a furry friend (while supplies last). The display shares guidance on maintaining safety
for people and reducing oversalting and the risks of salt-related issues for pets, such as skin and ingestion concerns.
“There’s a lot of confusion around winter de-icing products, especially since manufacturers aren’t required to back up environmental claims. Even products labeled as ‘pet-friendly’ can
still harm our water resources. We encourage people to use de-icers only when ice is present, apply the minimum amount needed and clean up any excess. More salt doesn’t equal safer
conditions. Small amounts can have long-lasting impacts on lakes, streams and groundwater here in Edina and across Minnesota. Fortunately, there are practical ways to reduce salt use
while still keeping sidewalks and roads safe,” said Water Resources Manager Jessica Wilson.
Tips for Reducing or Eliminating the Need for Salt:
Use a shovel, broom or ice scraper to remove or prevent ice. Shovel early and often.
Choose an alternative, like sand, kitty litter or chicken grit that provides traction.
Take advantage of warm days and sunshine to clear slush and ice.
Address drainage issues that cause ice build-up on pathways.
If you choose to use a chemical de-icer product, sweep up excess material after the snow and ice event is over. De-icer on dry pavement should be swept up and can be either reused or
thrown in the trash.
If you choose to use a chemical de-icer product, be sure to follow the directions on the label. More salt doesn't necessarily mean more melting. Pay attention to the recommended application
rate and effective temperature range and aim for a 3-inch spread between salt granules.
If you hire a service provider, ask them if they’ve completed the
Smart Salting Certification through the Minnesota Pollution
Control Agency.
Additional Ways to Get Involved in Winter Salt Week
Register for free livestreamed webinars at WinterSaltWeek.org.
Sign up for the free online Community Leaders Smart Salting Workshop 10 a.m. to noon. Wednesday, Jan. 28, hosted by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency. For more details and to register,
visit their website at pca.state.mn.us/events-and-meetings
Join “Low Salt, No Salt Minnesota,” a free technical assistance program for owners or managers of private properties in Edina, including churches, apartment buildings and condos, to
receive specialized plans to help reduce oversalting.
For more information about Winter Salt Week or additional ways to get involved, contact Wilson at jwilson@EdinaMN.gov or 952-826-0445. For pet-safe winter tips, label-reading guidance
and smart salting practices, visit EdinaMN.gov/Paws.
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Edina, Minn., Jan. 16, 2026 – Winter Salt Week, Jan. 26-30, is a collaboration of organizations across the United States and Canada that share a goal of raising awareness around salt
pollution and reduction solutions.
Chloride pollution from de-icing salt is a growing problem for water resources across the state, and once salt dissolves in water, there is no practical way to remove it. Contamination
from salt has been found in lakes, streams and groundwater in Edina’s Nine Mile Creek and Minnehaha Creek watersheds.
In recognition of Winter Salt Week, the City of Edina is raising awareness about responsible salt use and effective application methods to protect people and pets and minimize long-term
environmental harm caused by overuse.
During Winter Salt Week, the City will have a “Paws & Pavement” informational display at Hughes Pavilion at Centennial Lakes Park, 7499 France Ave. S. Whether you’re skating or enjoying
a winter walk in the park, visitors can “fetch some tips” and take home a free dog treat for a furry friend (while supplies last). The display shares guidance on maintaining safety
for people and reducing oversalting and the risks of salt-related issues for pets, such as skin and ingestion concerns.
“There’s a lot of confusion around winter de-icing products, especially since manufacturers aren’t required to back up environmental claims. Even products labeled as ‘pet-friendly’ can
still harm our water resources. We encourage people to use de-icers only when ice is present, apply the minimum amount needed and clean up any excess. More salt doesn’t equal safer
conditions. Small amounts can have long-lasting impacts on lakes, streams and groundwater here in Edina and across Minnesota. Fortunately, there are practical ways to reduce salt use
while still keeping sidewalks and roads safe,” said Water Resources Manager Jessica Wilson.
Tips for Reducing or Eliminating the Need for Salt:
Use a shovel, broom or ice scraper to remove or prevent ice. Shovel early and often.
Choose an alternative, like sand, kitty litter or chicken grit that provides traction.
Take advantage of warm days and sunshine to clear slush and ice.
Address drainage issues that cause ice build-up on pathways.
If you choose to use a chemical de-icer product, sweep up excess material after the snow and ice event is over. De-icer on dry pavement should be swept up and can be either reused or
thrown in the trash.
If you choose to use a chemical de-icer product, be sure to follow the directions on the label. More salt doesn't necessarily mean more melting. Pay attention to the recommended application
rate and effective temperature range and aim for a 3-inch spread between salt granules.
If you hire a service provider, ask them if they’ve completed the
Smart Salting Certification through the Minnesota Pollution
Control Agency.
Additional Ways to Get Involved in Winter Salt Week
Register for free livestreamed webinars at WinterSaltWeek.org.
Sign up for the free online Community Leaders Smart Salting Workshop 10 a.m. to noon. Wednesday, Jan. 28, hosted by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency. For more details and to register,
visit their website at pca.state.mn.us/events-and-meetings
Join “Low Salt, No Salt Minnesota,” a free technical assistance program for owners or managers of private properties in Edina, including churches, apartment buildings and condos, to
receive specialized plans to help reduce oversalting.
For more information about Winter Salt Week or additional ways to get involved, contact Wilson at jwilson@EdinaMN.gov or 952-826-0445. For pet-safe winter tips, label-reading guidance
and smart salting practices, visit EdinaMN.gov/Paws.
-30-