10/08/2026
Saratoga Lake Association Participates in 2026 New York State Road Salt Summit
Protecting Freshwater While Maintaining Safe Winter Roads.
Representatives of the Saratoga Lake Association (SLA) Board joined approximately 200 policymakers, highway professionals, scientists, environmental advocates and business leaders at the 2026 New York State Road Salt Summit, held October 8 at the Desmond Hotel in Albany.
Hosted by the Lake George Association and Lake George Waterkeeper, the Summit brought together stakeholders from across New York State to address an increasingly urgent environmental challenge: how to maintain safe winter roads while reducing the damaging effects of road salt on freshwater resources.
The day featured legislative discussions, scientific presentations, practical training sessions and live demonstrations of innovative winter maintenance technologies. Particularly noteworthy were the Legislative Panel and the session examining road salt's impact on drinking water supplies. Both reinforced the principle that protecting motorists and protecting water quality are not competing objectives. With modern equipment, improved application techniques and appropriate training, communities can accomplish both.
For Saratoga Lake, the issue is especially significant. Historical water quality records document a substantial increase in chloride concentrations, from approximately 22 mg/L in 1982 to nearly 67 mg/L in 2024. Recent SLA-sponsored research conducted in collaboration with Skidmore College has reinforced concerns about continued chloride accumulation in the lake and its watershed.
SLA representatives used the Summit to engage with highway superintendents, legislative representatives, municipal officials and winter maintenance specialists about proven strategies for reducing salt applications without compromising roadway safety. These discussions complement the Association's ongoing Road Salt Reduction Initiative, including its recent commitment to sponsor professional training sessions for members of the Saratoga County Highway Association.
The Summit demonstrated the growing statewide recognition that excessive road salt use is neither environmentally sustainable nor economically necessary. Solutions already exist, including calibrated spreading equipment, brine application, pre-wetting techniques and improved winter maintenance practices.
The message from Albany was clear: We do not have to choose between safe roads and clean water.
As SLA continues its efforts to protect Saratoga Lake, the knowledge, partnerships and practical solutions advanced at this Summit will help guide our work with municipalities and highway departments throughout the watershed.
- Because the Lake Can't Speak for Itself.
