Snow and ice control handbook updated

Photo: MnDOT

An updated version of the Minnesota Snow and Ice Control Handbook for Snowplow Operators is now available on Minnesota LTAP’s website. The handbook promotes understanding of the tools, best practices, and limitations for snow and ice control. It also helps operators understand when to use and when not to use these tools and practices.

The Minnesota Local Road Research Board (LRRB) sponsored the project. MnLTAP led the work of a technical advisory panel (TAP) and produced the updated document. The TAP, made up of practitioners and technical experts, worked together to incorporate current technology and best practices.

The handbook has easy-to-scan sections on what to do before the winter, before the storm, during the storm, and after the storm. It also includes application rate guidelines with charts and examples plus information about materials and quality control.

Practices such as anti-icing, prewetting, and pretreating are emphasized. Environmental-related tips are sprinkled throughout the handbook to raise awareness and encourage users to reduce the impacts from snow and ice control operations.

“We hope the handbook provides the information needed to adopt these practices and tools to help reduce environmental impacts when dealing with snow and ice control operations,” says Mindy Carlson, MnLTAP program director and the project’s principal investigator. “We appreciate feedback as you begin using this handbook to address situations in your own areas.”

The handbook, along with other snow and ice resources, is posted on the Minnesota LTAP website and is available to download for free. Minnesota LTAP also offers workshops using the handbook.

Learn more:

• Minnesota LTAP snow and ice control page
• MnLTAP workshop information: Katherine Stanley, sell0146@umn.edu