COLDWATER, MI (WTVB) – In a move to preserve dwindling resources, communities across Michigan are officially rationing road salt amid a statewide shortage.
The Branch County Road Commission state road salt barn is down to just one-third capacity after a relentless winter spiked demand.
While the county manages critical routes like I-69 and US-12 under state contract, local municipalities are feeling the pinch even more acutely.
Quincy Village Manager Ryan Smead says that salting operations will be restricted strictly to intersections until new shipments arrive, while Union City and Bronson have also confirmed they are also using their remaining supplies sparingly while awaiting long-delayed orders.
The shortage is being compounded by extreme cold, which has rendered traditional rock salt largely ineffective at temperatures below 15°F.
To combat the icy conditions without wasting precious salt, most road crews have shifted to using a mixture of sand and salt to provide much-needed traction on slippery surfaces.
Road Commission Manager Jay Miller says he has requested an early delivery of the spring salt order, the timeline for its arrival remains uncertain due to regional supply chain delays.
For the time being motorists around the county are urged to exercise extreme caution, as many residential and secondary roads may remain snow-covered or icy as crews prioritize high-traffic routs, intersections and emergency routes.
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