[p2tech] Impaired waters due to high chloride levels

Minnesota is looking at ways to mitigate problems with stream 
impairments due to high chloride levels causing higher salinity.  A 
recent study conducted in Minnesota indicated the larger portion (75%) 
of high chlorides comes from road salt and steps are being taken to 
reduce the use of salt, and other measures.

Municipal wastewater treatment plant discharge is about 25% of the 
source of higher chlorides, with a good portion of this coming from 
residential water softening systems that aren't maintained properly.  
Have other states/municipalities run into this problem with water 
softening systems, and what steps have been taken?  Best practices? 
Education? Source reduction?

-- 
Cindy McComas
Director

Minnesota Technical Assistance Program
University of Minnesota
612.624.4678, 800.247.0015
http://www.mntap.umn.edu

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