(PRESS RELEASE) – Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) have announced $2.7 million in H2Ohio grants will be awarded to 52 communities around the state to upgrade equipment and salt storage facilities.
Edgerton is one of the two Williams County recipients of the grant funding. H2Ohio is Governor DeWine’s statewide water quality initiative designed to address complex issues impacting Ohio’s waters.
Launched in 2019, H2Ohio uses a comprehensive approach guided by science and data to reduce algal blooms, stop pollution, and improve access to clean drinking water by supporting best farming practices, wetland creation, road salt runoff reduction, dam removal, and water infrastructure revitalization.
EDGERTON’S PROJECT
The village of Edgerton proposed a grant funded project to incorporate a brine wetting system for snow and ice control. Edgerton has roughly 29 lane miles of municipal roadway and 4 lane miles of State and Federal roadway, US 6 the Grand Republic Army Highway and Ohio State Route 49.
Edgerton on state route locations averages 5,500-7,000 cars and commercial vehicles per day. Municipal owned streets average 500-750 cars per day.
“By incorporating a wetting system, the village will reduce the use of chloride, as the primary treatment of roadways is currently rock salt spreading”, said Edgerton Village Administrator Dawn Fitzcharles.
“This change will bring numerous benefits, including more even distribution of brine, immediate effectiveness, cost-effectiveness, easier handling, and safer options for people and animals.”
“The change will reduce salt usage, lower runoff and promote chloride reduction for the St Joseph River Watershed. Using the brine salt will have a positive impact on the environment and preserve our road surfaces.”
One of the most significant advantages of using brine salt is its even distribution. Unlike traditional rock salt, brine stays exactly where it is placed, ensuring that every part of the road is treated evenly. This means that there will be no missed spots or uneven coverage, resulting in safer road conditions for drivers.”
Salt is known to blow away and get into nearby waterways, posing a threat to the environment. As the Village of Edgerton is located along the St. Joseph River, it is our responsibility to choose a salt option that is environmentally friendly.”
Brine works immediately upon application, making it a more efficient option for snow and ice control. This is especially crucial during severe weather conditions when roads need to be cleared quickly and effectively.
“By choosing brine, the village can ensure that our roads are safe and accessible for all. The use of brine wetting technique is not only beneficial for our roads but also for the environment and the overall safety of our community. We would like to express our deepest gratitude for the funding and support from the Ohio EPA for the H2Ohio program”, added Fitzcharles.