In Quebec, the Laurentian Shield separates the Saguenay/Lac-Saint-Jean and Quebec City regions. Provincial Highway 175 connects the two regions, cutting through the mountain range as well as a major wildlife reserve for more than 150 kilometres. The harsh climate, which is characterized by a total snowfall of more than 6 metres and precipitation from September to May, combined with the rugged terrain, create tremendous challenges in terms of keeping the highway safe and reliable at all times. The use of relatively large amounts of road salt for anti-icing and deicing, and its potentially harmful effect on freshwater ecosystems, soil, flora, and fauna in an environment that is as sensitive as a wildlife reserve is a constant concern for road network operations management. The project underway to expand this highway to a divided four-line highway will indirectly result in a substantial increase in the use of road salt, which is one of the factors that led to the development of a road salt management plan for Highway 175. The purpose of the plan is to ensure highway safety while reducing the environmental impact of the use of road salt. It serves as a means by which the Ministere des Transports du Quebec is committed to apply best management practices in the areas of salt spreading and storage, while fulfilling its responsibility to provide a safe, efficient, and economical road in a spirit of sustainable development. Road salt management is factored in at the road design and construction stage. Development of the plan is based ona review of current maintenance operations, a determination of means, andthe establishment of objectives in order to reduce the negative impact ofroad salt release. Its application results not only in environmental benefits, but also in more efficient operation, improved road safety, and savings in terms of the use of the material. For the covering abstract see ITRD E143097.
Abstract