Minnesota Statewide Chloride Management Plan

Reducing chloride at the source is needed throughout the state of Minnesota, not only to restore already impacted waters but also to protect all water resources. Chloride is persistent in the environment, and once it there, is difficult to remove. This also means that chloride will continue to accumulate in the environment over time. There are multiple sources to consider, a variety of options to reduce chloride, and a large geographical area to address. A main purpose of this plan is to provide guidance, resources, and information to individuals and organizations in assisting with making the important decisions of the what, how and when for managing chloride.
The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) has partnered with local partners, other state agencies, and experts across the state to create a plan for effectively managing salt use to protect our water resources in a responsible and strategic approach. Solutions were developed collaboratively to find a balance between clean water and salt use. The Statewide Chloride Management Plan (CMP) incorporates water quality conditions, sources of chloride, salt reduction strategies, protection strategies, water quality monitoring recommendations, and measurement and tracking of results.