Huntsville Council Commits to Reducing Road Salt Use

Mayor Alcock expressed excitement to see the issue on the agenda saying it reinforces the town's commitment to reduce salt use

Huntsville Council agreed to commit to road salt reduction in the March 23rd, 2026, meeting.

The resolution comes amid growing environmental concerns about the impact of road salt on Muskoka's lakes.

According to District of Muskoka data, chloride concentrations have increased by at least 0.5 mg/L in 80 of 274 lakes—about 29 per cent—between 2018 and 2022. In Lake Muskoka, chloride levels have risen 15-fold since 1970.

Research from Queen's University scientist Dr. Shelley Arnott shows that some aquatic organisms are negatively affected at chloride levels as low as 10 mg/L, far below the 120 mg/L long-term exposure guideline. District data indicates roughly one-quarter of Muskoka lakes now exceed that 10 mg/L threshold.

In response, Huntsville is committing to ongoing efforts to reduce road salt use as much as possible while maintaining road safety. This includes publicly reporting on annual salt usage, supporting local research into the impacts of salt, and contributing to public education efforts.

Council is also urging the Province of Ontario to take a stronger role. The resolution calls for the development of limited liability legislation and standardized best management practices for snow and ice control, including on private properties.

It also requests the creation of a provincially supported advisory committee made up of experts and stakeholders to guide efforts in protecting freshwater ecosystems, drinking water, and infrastructure from salt pollution.

The resolution will be circulated to several organizations and levels of government, including the District of Muskoka, other local municipalities, provincial associations, and relevant ministries, as well as the Premier of Ontario.

Council's move reflects increasing awareness of the long-term environmental impacts of road salt and the need for coordinated action across jurisdictions.

Councillor, Scott Morrison, indicated that The Friends of the Muskoka Watershed have had 36 to 39 municipalities across the province pass the motion so far, and Huntsville’s support “will help them in their efforts.”

Mayor, Nancy Alcock, expressed excitement to see the topic on the agenda, which has also been endorsed by Bracebridge and the District of Muskoka.

She said, “It’s certainly an issue and needs drastic attention,” and today’s motion “reinforces the Town’s commitment” regarding the use of road salt.