Editor:
In response to Mr. Laninga's letter (Coast Reporter, Feb. 19), Capilano Highway Services performs winter maintenance on Highway 101 in conformance with Ministry of Transportation and Infra-structure specifications.
The liquid being applied is road salt in solution, called salt brine. By applying it in liquid form, salt brine is sprayed directly to the road surface, thus reducing salt wastage and minimizing the impact of salt on the environment. When applied in granular form, much of the salt is blown into the ditch by traffic before it has a chance to have any effect. All of the salt brine stays on the road, sometimes for days, increasing its effectiveness and reducing the need for re-application.
An application of salt brine is applied proactively to prevent black ice. Clearing ice and snow after it has formed requires far more salt than preventing it. Capilano Highway Services utilizes a sophisticated road weather forecasting system which predicts the likelihood of frost and ice on the road surface in order for our crews to accurately determine whether to proactively apply salt brine in advance to prevent black ice.
Capilano's goals are to maintain safe driving conditions while minimizing environmental impact. We do so using techniques and materials tested and proven by agencies and groups dedicated to these goals.
Steve Drummond
Capilano Highway Services Company
