Letters to the Editor

Sandy Hill Unite!

We are dismayed by the amount of salt spread and often clumped on our streets and sidewalks in Sandy Hill and beyond.

Salt is toxic, especially to aquatic life, and recent studies undertaken by the Ottawa Riverkeeper show shocking levels of chloride concentrations in surrounding waterways (in one case, approaching ocean water!).

And yet, we see repeated excessive applications of salt, even on the walkways and stairs at our library on Rideau Street and at some bus stops. Whatever happened to the use of grit and sand? Are there other options and approaches that would allow for human safety, but also environmental integrity?

We intend to share information and ideas for more ecological ways to deal with the hazards of ice and snow, including perhaps neighbourhood monitoring and advocacy. Will you join us? Contact us at saltinottawa@gmail.com.

Andrew Johnston, Besserer St.

Jane McNamara, Marlborough Ave.

Judy Rinfret, Wilbrod St.