A Look Inside ODOT's Winter Storm Toolbox
ODOT crews have a variety of options in our winter storm toolbox to help keep our roads passable. Our goal is to use the right tool, at the right time, in the right place to protect travelers and the environment.
Liquid deicer
We typically use deicer before and during a storm to prevent ice and snow from sticking to the pavement. We use the lowest application rate needed to be effective. To protect water quality, we only use deicers that meet strict specifications.
Solid salt
We use salt, which is an effective deicer, on all interstates in Oregon, as well as some connecting highways.
Sand
When deicer is not the best option, we use sand to provide better traction. When appropriate, we may mix sand with liquid deicer to help it stick to the road. We place barriers near waterways to capture scattered sand. We pick up sand after placing it -- often repeating the drop and pickup cycle several rimes during a storm. Sand take three to five times as long to pick up than it does to place.
Snowplows
Plowing is the most efficient way to remove snow and ice from roads. It is most effective when liquid deicer or salt is used before plowing. We are always looking for ways to innovate our snow removal tactics.