Snow Disposal Guidelines

We have received many questions about snow disposal. The following is an edited reprint of Snow Disposal Guidelines, "A New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services Fact Sheet." Highway personnel in particular should be aware of the proper procedures in snow disposal.

Introduction

During each snowfall season from November to April, the Department of Environmental Services receives many complaints related to snow disposal into and/or near surface water. Concerns regarding disposal of snow cleared from streets and parking lots can be initially categorized as aesthetic pr environmental. The primary aesthetic concern is the visibility of debris and huge snow piles. Environmental concerns include protection of groundwater quality, surface water quality, and aquatic life.

The environmental effects of disposed snow result from high levels of sodium chloride, sand, debris, and automobile exhaust contaminants. The method of disposal determines the potential environmental effects: disposal in surface water, adjacent to surface water, or away from surface water where meltwater will discharge to groundwater.

Each disposal alternative poses different problems. Chlorides, metals, and other contaminants are a threat to groundwater, and to some extent, surface water. Sand and silt threaten aquatic life in surface water but pose no threat to groundwater. Debris can create a water quality problem if dumped with snow into surface water.

The following guidelines reflect the DES view that the greatest long-term harm would occur from contamination of groundwater, but that surface water must also be protected, and that aesthetic concerns cannot take a higher priority than the environmental concerns.

• Disposed snow should be stored near flowing surface waters, but at least 25 feet from the surface water high water mark.
• A silt fence or equivalent barrier should be securely placed between the snow storage area and the high water mark.
• The snow storage area should be at least 75 feet from any private water supply well, at least 200 feet from any community water supply well, and at least 400 feet from any municipal well. (Note: Snow storage areas are prohibited in wellhead protection areas [class GAA groundwater]).
• All debris in the snow storage area should be cleared from the site prior to snow storage and all debris in the snow storage area should be cleared from the site and properly disposed of no later than May 15 after the area is used for snow storage.

Sources:  New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services WD-SWQB-6 (1992)

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