Winter isn’t over yet, and icy bridges and slippery sidewalks remain a concern for motorists and pedestrians.  Municipalities and homeowners rely on de-icers to avoid those treacherous conditions, but have you ever thought about what those products are doing to our local lakes and waterways?   A team of biologists from Queen’s University, including graduate student Troy Martin, Collin Juurakko, Tia Harrison, Dr. Shelley Arnott and Dr. Virginia Walker are available to speak to media about a recent study published in the journal Water. The team looked at the effects of salt levels in freshwater habitats due to de-icer runoffs compared to some of the more “eco-friendly” de-icers like beet juice. Although there were only minor effects on the communities including bacterial and zooplankton at high road salt concentrations, there were some dramatic changes with the newer formulations. Researchers say while they applaud the sentiment behind the formulation of less damaging “eco-friendly” de-icers, they appear to have more negative environmental impacts than the traditional road salt that they were made to replace.

To arrange an interview, please contact Julie Brown, Media Relations Manager at 343-363-2763 or brown.julie@queensu.ca