What is Salt Watch?

Do you know that Americans use roughly 20-30 million tons of salt every year? As snow and
rain wash away, all of that salt is carried into our storm drains, our streams, and even our
drinking water! You can help make a difference by joining the Jefferson Soil & Water Cosnervation District & the Izaak Walton League by participating in Salt Watch.

Road salt (sodium chloride) is everywhere during winter months. Salt keeps us safe: but too much of any salt is a problem. It keeps us safe on roads and sidewalks, but it can also pose a threat to fish and wildlife as well as human health. Fish and bugs that live in freshwater streams can't survive in extra salty water. And many of us (more than 117 million Americans) depend on local streams for drinking water. Water treatment plants are not equipped to filter out the extra salt, so it can end up in your tap water and even corrode your pipes. 

You can help!

The Jefferson Soil & Water Conservation District will provide you with a FREE Salt Watch test kit, thanks to the Izaak Walton League.  This is a great activity for all ages to help gather important data and make a difference in your community. Each kit includes 4 test strips to use throughout the year, and each test only takes about 10 minutes! These kits are great for families, student groups, and for anyone looking to get outside and explore local natural resources.

Request a Test Kit